Black Pepper Beef
This Black Pepper Beef is a mouthwatering stir-fry with tender beef, crispy veggies, and a bold, peppery sauce. It’s quick and easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners. The beef is marinated for extra tenderness, then seared and tossed in a savory sauce that’s a little tangy, a little sweet, and packed with that signature black pepper kick. It’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it to family or guests!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Black Pepper Beef
For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp soy sauce low-sodium works too
- 1 tbsp cornstarch helps tenderize the meat
- 1 tbsp oil vegetable or avocado oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce adds rich umami
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce for deeper color and flavor
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp coarse black pepper freshly cracked for the best flavor
- 1 tsp sugar balances the heat
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water to thicken the sauce
For Stir-Frying:
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 small onion sliced
- 1 bell pepper sliced (red, green, or both)
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch ginger minced
Optional Add-ins:
- Sliced mushrooms snap peas, or broccoli for extra veggies
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions
How to Make Black Pepper Beef
Prep the Beef
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain—this keeps it tender, not chewy.
- Toss it with soy sauce, cornstarch, and 1 tbsp oil. Let it sit while you prep the rest. This little marinade trick makes a huge difference!
Mix the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, black pepper, sugar, and cornstarch slurry.
- Set it aside—you’ll need it in just a few minutes.
Heat Things Up
- Grab your wok or a large pan. Heat 2 tbsp oil over high heat.
- Once it’s hot enough to make water sizzle, add the beef in a single layer. Let it sear for 30 seconds before stirring. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then remove and set aside.
Stir-Fry Time
- In the same pan, toss in onion, bell pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
Bring It All Together
- Return the beef to the pan. Give the sauce a quick stir (cornstarch settles), then pour it in.
- Stir everything well and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
Serve and Enjoy
- Turn off the heat. Plate it up over steamed rice or noodles.
- Dig in while it’s hot—and prepare for everyone to ask when you're making it again!
Notes
- Customize the heat: Add chili paste or red pepper flakes for extra spice.
- Use lean beef like flank steak for a tender, flavorful result.
- Substitute veggies: Bell peppers, onions, and snap peas are great options.
- For a lower-carb version, swap rice for cauliflower rice.