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If you’re looking for a quick meal that packs a flavorful punch, Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry hits the spot. In this post, I’ll show you how to make this tasty dish using simple ingredients. You’ll learn how to prepare the beef, stir-fry fresh veggies, and blend everything for a mouthwatering meal. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into cooking this classic!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: This stir fry features the perfect balance of spicy black pepper and savory sauces, making every bite a flavor explosion.
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the vegetables or protein to suit your preferences, making it a versatile recipe.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons black pepper, freshly ground
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Cooked jasmine rice, for serving
Measurement Tips
When measuring ingredients, use dry measuring cups for solids and liquid measuring cups for liquids. Make sure to level off dry ingredients for accuracy. Use a scale for precise weight, especially for beef. This ensures your dish tastes just right.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have beef sirloin, try flank steak or chicken. For a vegetarian option, use tofu or tempeh. You can replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free meal. If black pepper is too spicy, use less or switch to white pepper. For a sweet twist, add a dash of hoisin sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Beef Marinade
To start, you need to prepare the beef. Take 1 pound of beef sirloin and slice it thinly. In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and half of the black pepper. This step helps the beef stay tender and flavorful. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak in the flavors.
Cooking the Beef
Next, grab a large skillet or wok. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef. Stir-fry it for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the beef to brown and cook through but not overcook. After it’s done, take the beef out and set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Now, it’s time for the veggies. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 inch of grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds to get a nice aroma. Then, add 1 sliced bell pepper and 1 cup of broccoli florets. Stir-fry these for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the vegetables to stay a little crisp.
Combining and Serving
Finally, return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce and the remaining black pepper. Stir everything well for another minute. This lets all the flavors meld together. Once done, remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve the stir fry hot over cooked jasmine rice. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Tender Beef
To get tender beef, start with sirloin. Thin slices help a lot. Marinate the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. This adds flavor and keeps it juicy. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This time helps the beef soak up the taste.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stir-Fry
Heat your skillet or wok well before adding oil. Hot oil makes a good sear. Stir-fry the beef quickly. Aim for just 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the beef once it turns brown. Don’t overcook it; you want it tender. After cooking the beef, add oil again for the veggies. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes too. This keeps them crisp and bright.
Suggestions for Flavor Enhancements
Add more layers to your dish. Try a splash of rice vinegar for tang. A spoonful of sugar can balance heat. You can also toss in sesame oil for a nutty flavor. Fresh herbs, like cilantro, give a nice touch. If you want more heat, add chili flakes or diced peppers. Enjoy playing with these flavors!
Pro Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if time permits, marinating for 30 minutes to an hour enhances the flavor even more.
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to sear the beef quickly, locking in juices and flavors. Ensure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the ingredients.
- Cut Vegetables Uniformly: Slice your vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. This helps achieve the perfect tender-crisp texture.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of black pepper. For extra heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps (Vegetables & Proteins)
You can change the veggies and proteins for this stir fry. If you want a different taste, try these swaps:
– Proteins: You can use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef. Each will bring its own flavor.
– Vegetables: Add snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. They all cook well and add color.
These swaps keep the dish fresh and fun. You can mix and match based on what you have at home.
Spice Level Adjustments
If you want to change the heat in your dish, you can easily do it. Here are some ideas:
– Add More Heat: Include red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.
– Milder Option: Reduce the black pepper or skip it altogether. You can still enjoy the dish without the heat.
Adjusting the spice level can make it perfect for your taste.
Dietary Modifications (Gluten-Free, Low-Carb)
You can make this dish fit various diets. Here are some simple swaps:
– Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce. It has a similar taste but is gluten-free.
– Low-Carb: Skip the rice and serve the stir fry over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps. This way, you keep it low-carb and still tasty.
These changes help you enjoy a delicious meal while sticking to your diet.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you enjoy your black pepper beef stir fry, let leftovers cool first. Use airtight containers for storage. This keeps the beef and veggies fresh. Place in the fridge for up to three days. Always label the containers with the date. This helps you know when to eat them.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to eat, you can reheat your stir fry. The best way is to use a skillet. Heat it on medium. Add a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking. Stir the beef and veggies for a few minutes until they are hot. You can also use a microwave. Place the stir fry in a bowl and cover it. Heat for one to two minutes. Stir halfway for even heating.
Freezing Tips
If you have more leftovers than you can eat, freezing is a great option. Place the stir fry in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat as mentioned. Enjoy your tasty meal anytime!
FAQs
What is Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry?
Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish. It features beef sirloin and fresh veggies. The dish gets its bold flavor from black pepper and a simple sauce. The stir-fry is colorful and full of life. You can serve it over jasmine rice for a filling meal.
How do I make it less spicy?
To make Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry less spicy, reduce the black pepper. Start with one tablespoon instead of two. You can also add more veggies to balance the heat. Adding a dash of sugar can help tone down the spice too.
Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef. Flank steak, ribeye, or even ground beef work well. Just cut them into thin slices for quick cooking. Each cut has a unique texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment.
What can I serve with Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry?
Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry pairs well with jasmine rice. You could also serve it with noodles or a side salad. For a fresh touch, add cucumber or pickled vegetables. These sides can brighten up the meal and add variety.
You learned how to make Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry from start to finish. We covered the key ingredients, measurement tips, and substitutions. The step-by-step guide helps you cook tender beef and sauté veggies perfectly.
I shared tips for the best flavor and cooking practices. You can easily modify the recipe for different diets or spice levels. With proper storage and reheating tips, your leftovers stay tasty. Now, you have the tools to create this dish anytime! Enjoy your cooking adventur
Spicy Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry
A flavorful stir fry featuring tender beef sirloin, vibrant vegetables, and a spicy black pepper kick.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 piece bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 stalks green onions, chopped
- to taste cooked jasmine rice, for serving
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and half of the ground black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until it’s browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Return the cooked beef to the skillet, along with oyster sauce and the remaining black pepper. Stir everything together for another minute until well combined, and heated through.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Serve the stir fry hot over cooked jasmine rice.
Serve the stir fry in a large bowl, topped with extra green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of flavor and texture.
Keyword beef stir fry, quick meal, spicy
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