Name: Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 300 gr beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, thinly sliced; 1/2 onion, roughly chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 stalk green onion, cut into pieces; 2 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tbsp sweet soy sauce; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper; 1 tsp sugar; Salt to taste; 100 ml water; Cooking oil for stir-frying; 1 tsp oil (for marinating)

Black pepper beef stir-fry is a savory and satisfying dish that combines tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a punch of aromatic spices. The key to its flavor is the robust combination of black pepper, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, creating a deliciously savory, slightly sweet, and peppery sauce that clings to the beef and vegetables. Quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This black pepper beef stir-fry is packed with flavor and texture. The combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce is simply irresistible. The generous use of coarsely ground black pepper gives the dish a kick without overwhelming the taste buds, while the sweetness from the sweet soy sauce balances the savory elements perfectly. It’s a quick, one-pan dish that delivers on flavor without requiring too much time or effort.

Ingredients

300 gr beef sirloin, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, thinly sliced
1/2 onion, roughly chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 stalk green onion, cut into pieces
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp sweet soy sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
1 tsp sugar
Salt to taste
100 ml water
Cooking oil for stir-frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the Beef:
Mix the beef slices with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp oil, and a little black pepper. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat some oil in a pan, and sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Cook the Beef:
Add the marinated beef to the pan and stir-fry until the beef changes color and is halfway cooked through.
Add Vegetables:
Add the sliced carrot, bell peppers, and green onions to the pan. Stir well to combine.
Season:
Pour in the oyster sauce, sweet soy sauce, soy sauce, black pepper, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the 100 ml of water, then cook everything together until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens.
Check the Taste & Serve:
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 30 minutes

This dish comes together quickly, taking just about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a busy weeknight dinner.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this stir-fry.
Spicy Kick: Add a sliced chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat.
Different Vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like flank steak or ribeye, but sirloin is preferred for its tenderness.

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add more coarsely ground black pepper, sliced fresh chilies, or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Can I substitute the oyster sauce with something else?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a little sugar for sweetness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and cook the dish when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables provide the best texture, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen vegetables. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Yes, you can use coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free or soy-free alternative.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce during the final cooking phase.

Can I serve this dish with something other than rice?

Yes, this stir-fry pairs well with noodles, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Can I add more vegetables to this stir-fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas for more variety.

Can I freeze this stir-fry?

While stir-fry is best when freshly made, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to a month. Just ensure it’s cooled before storing and reheat thoroughly when ready to eat.

Conclusion

This Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry is an incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines savory beef, crisp vegetables, and a zesty black pepper sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner on a busy night or want to impress guests with something flavorful, this recipe is a great choice. With a balance of spice, sweetness, and savory goodness, it’s sure to become a go-to in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy!