Black Pepper Beef Recipe

Introduction

Black Pepper Beef is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry dish that combines tender beef with the bold, spicy heat of black pepper, creating an irresistible taste sensation. This savory recipe brings together a delicious mix of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and of course, freshly ground black pepper, which elevates the dish to new heights. The beef is quickly cooked to perfection in a hot wok or skillet, ensuring that every bite is juicy, tender, and packed with bold flavor. Whether you’re looking to spice up a weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering, Black Pepper Beef is sure to become a favorite.

This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also highly versatile, allowing you to tweak it according to your preferences. It’s perfect for those who love a dish that’s flavorful, savory, and just the right amount of spicy. The combination of juicy beef and the peppery kick will leave you craving more.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step to prepare this dish, offer tips for success, and suggest fun variations to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love Black Pepper Beef

• Bold, Peppery Flavor: The star of the dish is the freshly ground black pepper, which imparts a deep, spicy flavor that contrasts perfectly with the savory beef and other seasonings.
• Tender, Juicy Beef: The beef is cooked quickly over high heat, which helps it remain tender and juicy while absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Quick and Easy: Black Pepper Beef can be made in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: This dish can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the black pepper or skip the spicy ingredients. You can also add different vegetables to enhance the dish or make it heartier.
• Perfectly Balanced: The combination of salty soy sauce, savory beef, spicy black pepper, and aromatic garlic and ginger creates a balanced and harmonious dish that is satisfying in every bite.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 8-10g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Black Pepper Beef:

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain (or your preferred cut of beef)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any cooking oil with a high smoke point)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced or grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
• 2-3 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper (to taste, adjust based on preference)
• Salt, to taste
• Green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

For Serving (Optional):

• Steamed white rice or jasmine rice
• Sautéed vegetables (such as broccoli or bok choy)

Special Equipment

While Black Pepper Beef doesn’t require any specialized tools, the following equipment will make the cooking process smoother:

1. Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying, as its wide surface and high sides allow for even cooking and quick stir-frying. A large skillet can also be used if you don’t have a wok.
2. Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the beef thinly against the grain, which is important for achieving tenderness. A sturdy cutting board is necessary for efficient prep work.
3. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements of soy sauce, vinegar, and other liquids ensure that the sauce is balanced and flavorful.
4. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is perfect for stirring the beef and vegetables as they cook, ensuring even heat distribution and preventing the ingredients from sticking to the pan.
5. Small Bowl: A small bowl is useful for mixing the cornstarch with water before adding it to the stir-fry, which helps thicken the sauce evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the beef against the grain into thin strips, ensuring that each piece will cook evenly and remain tender. If you have time, you can freeze the beef for about 20 minutes before slicing, which will make it easier to cut into thin slices. Set the beef aside.

Thinly slice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic and ginger. These aromatic ingredients will add depth to the stir fry and complement the bold flavor of the black pepper.

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water to make a slurry. This mixture will help thicken the sauce as it cooks.

2. Cook the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced beef to the pan in a single layer. Let the beef sear without stirring for about 1-2 minutes to get a good char. Then, stir-fry the beef for 3-4 minutes, until it’s just cooked through but still tender. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The garlic and ginger should become aromatic, infusing the oil with their rich flavors.

Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the pan, and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain some crunch. The vegetables should be cooked but not too soft, as they will continue to cook when the beef is added back in.

4. Make the Sauce

While the vegetables are cooking, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Once the vegetables are softened, pour the sauce mixture over the vegetables and stir to coat. Add the freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt to taste. This is where you can adjust the spiciness level by adding more black pepper if desired.

Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. If you like a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry to the pan and stir until the sauce has thickened to your liking. The cornstarch will help the sauce adhere to the beef and vegetables, creating a glossy, flavorful coating.

5. Combine the Beef and Sauce

Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir to combine with the sauce and vegetables. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure the beef is well coated with the sauce and heated through. Taste the stir-fry and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, pepper, or salt if necessary.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once everything is cooked through and well combined, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish the Black Pepper Beef with freshly chopped green onions or sesame seeds, if desired, for added flavor and texture. Serve the dish over steamed white rice or jasmine rice, and pair it with sautéed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Black Pepper Beef

• Slice the Beef Thinly: Thin slices of beef cook more quickly and evenly, ensuring the meat remains tender and juicy. Slice against the grain to maximize tenderness.
• Use Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides the best flavor and aroma. It gives the dish a sharper, more pungent kick compared to pre-ground pepper.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef: The beef cooks quickly, so avoid overcooking it. It should remain tender and juicy, not tough or dry.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of black pepper or omit the chili flakes. On the other hand, if you enjoy heat, add extra pepper or a pinch of cayenne for more spice.
• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Flank steak is a popular choice for stir-fry due to its tenderness and ability to absorb flavors. You can also use sirloin, ribeye, or other tender cuts of beef.
• Cook Over High Heat: Stir-frying is a fast cooking method that requires high heat. Ensure your pan is hot enough to sear the beef quickly while preserving its tenderness.

Variations of Black Pepper Beef

• Black Pepper Chicken: Swap the beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs for a lighter version of this dish. Chicken will absorb the flavors of the sauce just as well and make a great alternative.
• Vegetarian Black Pepper Stir Fry: For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh. These plant-based proteins will soak up the sauce and provide a satisfying texture.
• Add More Vegetables: Customize the dish by adding more vegetables like mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn. These will add extra texture and flavor while keeping the dish balanced and healthy.
• Spicy Black Pepper Beef: For an extra kick, add sliced fresh chili peppers or a teaspoon of chili paste to the stir-fry. This will bring more heat without compromising the flavor profile.

Storage and Shelf Life

Black Pepper Beef is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stir-fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, leave it in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it directly from frozen in a skillet.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Black Pepper Beef

Pair this dish with complementary sides to create a satisfying meal:

• Steamed Rice: The simplicity of steamed white or jasmine rice provides the perfect base for soaking up the flavorful black pepper sauce.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or bell peppers to add color, flavor, and extra nutrients.
• Garlic Bread: For a unique twist, serve the stir-fry with some garlic bread to soak up the savory sauce.

Print

Conclusion

Black Pepper Beef is a bold, flavorful, and satisfying stir-fry that’s perfect for any occasion. The juicy beef, peppery heat, and savory sauce create a well-balanced dish that’s both comforting and exciting. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and a customizable flavor profile, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or special gatherings. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with rice and vegetables, Black Pepper Beef will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the bold, spicy goodness of this delicious stir-fry!