Sizzling Chinese-Style Black Pepper Beef with Crisp Peppers

This Chinese-style black pepper beef is bold, savory, and irresistibly aromatic. Tender slices of beef are quickly stir-fried with crisp bell peppers and onions, then coated in a glossy, pepper-forward sauce that delivers deep umami with a gentle heat. It’s a fast, restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 500 g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Black Pepper Sauce

• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup beef stock

Instructions

1. Place the sliced beef in a bowl and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
3. Add the beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, just until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the remaining oil to the same pan. Add the onion and bell peppers, stir-frying for about 2 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
5. Add the minced garlic and freshly ground black pepper. Stir briefly until fragrant.
6. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and beef stock. Stir to combine.
7. Return the beef to the pan and toss well to coat with the sauce.
8. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling evenly to the beef.
9. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra tenderness, marinate the beef for 10 minutes with a teaspoon of oil and soy sauce before cooking.
• Adjust the black pepper to taste for more or less heat.
• Add sliced mushrooms or snap peas for extra texture.
• For a richer sauce, add a small knob of butter at the end.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles.
• Pair with simple stir-fried greens like bok choy or Chinese broccoli.

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: ~390 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4
• Cuisine: Chinese-style Asian