Name: Black Pepper Beef Stir: 7 Secrets for a Flavorful Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 500g (1.1 lbs) beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for beef marinade); Salt, as needed (for beef marinade); 2 medium onions, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic; 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger; 1 fresh red or green chili, chopped (adjust to your spice preference); 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for sauce); 3 tablespoons light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

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Black Pepper Beef Stir is a quick and flavorful dish that has become a staple in my weeknight dinners. This delightful stir-fry combines tender beef and crisp vegetables, all coated in a savory black pepper sauce. With its spicy kick and rich flavors, it’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Black Pepper Beef Stir

This dish is not just about taste; it brings numerous benefits that make it a favorite in my household. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s a healthy black pepper beef option, packed with protein and loaded with vegetables. The spicy black pepper beef dish is perfect for those who love a little heat, and the easy black pepper beef stir-fry method makes it beginner-friendly. Plus, the use of fresh ingredients adds a wholesome touch, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a quick black pepper beef meal or a delicious way to incorporate more protein into your diet, this recipe delivers!

Ingredients for Black Pepper Beef Stir

Gather these items:

500g (1.1 lbs) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for beef marinade)
Salt, as needed (for beef marinade)
2 medium onions, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon minced ginger
1 fresh red or green chili, chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for sauce)
3 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

How to Make Black Pepper Beef Stir Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the beef by thinly slicing it against the grain. In a medium bowl, combine the beef slices with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: While the beef marinates, prepare the vegetables. Cut the onions and green bell pepper into 1-inch cubes. Mince the garlic and ginger finely. Chop the chili pepper to your desired spice level.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 3 tablespoons light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
Step 4: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat with 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Add the marinated beef in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned and mostly cooked. Remove beef and set aside.
Step 5: Add another tablespoon of oil to the wok if needed. Add the onions and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the bell pepper and chili, and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
Step 6: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the wok and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables and bring to a simmer.
Step 7: Return the cooked beef to the wok. Stir everything together to coat with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 8: Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Black Pepper Beef Stir

Keep these in mind:

Always slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Let the beef marinate to enhance flavors.
Use a hot wok to achieve that perfect stir-fry texture.
Experiment with different vegetables for a personalized touch.

Best Ways to Serve Black Pepper Beef Stir

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa for a healthy twist. It’s a fantastic peppery beef stir-fry that delights the senses!

Black Pepper Beef Stir: 7 Secrets for a Flavorful Dinner - Black Pepper Beef Stir - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Black Pepper Beef Stir

Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes. This dish is also great for black pepper beef meal prep ideas!

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Pepper Beef Stir

What’s the secret to perfect Black Pepper Beef Stir?

To achieve the best flavor, use freshly ground black pepper and allow the beef to marinate adequately. This method enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.

Can I make Black Pepper Beef Stir ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and stir-fry just before serving for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Black Pepper Beef Stir?

Common mistakes include overcrowding the wok and not using high heat. These can lead to steaming rather than searing, which affects the texture of the beef.

Variations of Black Pepper Beef Stir You Can Try

For a twist, consider adding broccoli or snap peas for a colorful addition. You could also substitute beef with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version. This Asian black pepper beef recipe allows for endless culinary creativity!

For more delicious recipes, check out last recipes, or try making cheesy chicken noodle soup for a comforting meal. If you’re interested in meal prep, consider green bean casserole ideas for your next gathering. You can also explore creamy tomato soup for a delightful pairing with your stir-fry.

For more information on the health benefits of black pepper, you can visit Healthline.