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Black Pepper Beef: A Bold, Savory Stir-Fry Favorite


  • Author: Emily Carter
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Get ready to fire up your skillet—this Black Pepper Beef recipe is your go-to for a fast, flavor-packed stir-fry that delivers serious takeout vibes. Thinly sliced, tender beef meets crunchy bell peppers and sweet onions, all tossed in a bold, garlicky black pepper sauce that’s deeply savory with just the right hint of heat. It’s the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, an easy recipe that still feels indulgent, and a winning option for anyone craving bold food ideas with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a satisfying dinner idea, this dish brings rich flavor, great texture, and serious satisfaction.


Ingredients

For the Beef & Veggies:

  • 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (for marinade)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced into wedges
  • 1 red bell pepper, julienned
  • 1 green or yellow bell pepper (optional), julienned
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (optional)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 1/2 tsp cornstarch

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix sliced beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp oil. Let marinate for 15–20 minutes.
  2. Make the Sauce: Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
  3. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a hot wok or skillet. Add beef in a single layer and sear undisturbed for 1 minute. Stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. Stir-Fry Veggies: Add remaining oil to the pan. Add onion and bell peppers, stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
  5. Combine: Return beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir well until coated and glossy. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Serve: Serve hot over rice or in lettuce wraps. Garnish with extra black pepper or scallions if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes