Savor the Bold Flavors of Beef with Black Bean Sauce

A plate of Beef with Black Bean Sauce guarantees a feast of savory perfection. Juicy beef strips mingle with aromatic garlic, ginger, and fermented black beans, creating a bold, umami-packed dish that’s hard to resist.

The vibrant sauce clings to every bite, enhanced by crisp bell peppers and onions that bring a burst of freshness. This recipe offers a balance of textures and flavors that elevate your dining experience without overwhelming your cooking routine.

Perfect for weeknights or as a centerpiece for a special meal, this dish satisfies cravings while impressing anyone at the table. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

Get ready to unlock the secrets of this Chinese classic that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Let’s dive into the flavors that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser.

Beef with Black Bean Sauce Recipe

Beef with black bean sauce is a flavorful dish loved for its rich, savory taste. It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

This classic Chinese recipe pairs tender beef with the bold umami flavor of fermented black beans. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 pound (450g) beef (sirloin or flank steak)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons fermented black beans (rinsed and mashed lightly)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
• 1 medium onion (sliced)
• 1 medium green bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 medium red bell pepper (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken stock or water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Slice the beef thinly against the grain. Place it in a bowl.
2. Add soy sauce and cornstarch to the beef. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Beef

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until it’s browned but not fully cooked. Remove from the wok and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed.
2. Stir-fry the garlic, ginger, and mashed black beans for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, chicken stock, and sesame oil in a bowl.
2. Pour the sauce into the wok with the vegetables. Stir to combine.
3. Return the beef to the wok. Stir everything together.
4. Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce coats everything.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the beef with black bean sauce to a serving dish.
2. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

 

Top Tips

For Tender Beef

• Use a sharp knife to cut the beef into thin slices. Cutting against the grain helps make the meat tender.
• Do not overcook the beef during stir-frying. It will finish cooking when added back to the sauce.

For Better Flavor

• Fermented black beans are salty, so rinse them briefly before using.
• Mash the black beans slightly to release more flavor into the dish.

Variations

Add More Vegetables

• Mushrooms, zucchini, or snow peas are great additions. Add them in Step 3 with the other vegetables.

Swap the Protein

• Try chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Spice It Up

• Add sliced red chili or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 920mg

In summary, beef with black bean sauce is a quick, delicious meal that brings bold flavors to your table.

The combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauce makes it a family favorite. Enjoy it fresh and hot for the best taste.