Stir fry beef in black bean sauce, a dish that marries the tender juiciness of beef with the savory allure of fermented black beans, is a culinary adventure worth embarking upon.

Stir-Fry Beef in Black Bean Sauce

Recipe by Cinnamon GrayCourse: Beef, Stir-fry

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

375g rump steak
1 tbsp corn flour
1 large onion
1 red pepper
1 green pepper
4 cloves garlic
1 tsp sized slice of ginger
2 tbsp chilli sauce
2 tsp sugar
1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
5 tbsp black bean sauce

Directions

cut beef steak into strips add corn flour and mix
pre-heat shallow pan add and fry beef for 3-5 minutes then remove
add onion and peppers to pan fry until soft(6-7 min)
add garlic, ginger, chilli sauce cook for 1 min
add beef, add black bean sauce, rice wine vinegar, sugar and 2 tbsp water

Recipe Video

Notes

for a spicy/hot version add 2 red chilli peppers and hot chilli sauce
watch the videos and leave a comment thank you! and enjoy.

From its humble beginnings in Chinese kitchens to its now global popularity, this dish tantalizes taste buds and satisfies cravings with its rich flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Selecting the right ingredients lays the foundation for a stellar stir-fry beef in black bean sauce. Choose thinly sliced beef, preferably flank steak or sirloin, for its tenderness and ability to soak up flavors. The star of the show, black bean sauce, can be homemade or store-bought, but ensure it’s of high quality for maximum flavor impact. Select an array of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and broccoli to add crunch and vibrancy to the dish. Aromatics like garlic, ginger, and green onions infuse the stir fry with depth and complexity, while seasonings like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil provide the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors.

Preparation

Preparation is key to achieving stir fry perfection. Start by marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch to tenderize and flavor it. Meanwhile, prepare the black bean sauce by combining fermented black beans, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings in a blender or mortar and pestle. Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and mince the aromatics finely for an even distribution of flavor.

Cooking Process

Heat your wok over high heat until smoking hot, then add a tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat the surface. Stir-fry the marinated beef in batches until browned and slightly caramelized, then set aside. In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté the aromatics until fragrant. Pour in the black bean sauce and stir-fry until it coats the aromatics and becomes glossy. Add the vegetables and stir-fry briefly until they are tender-crisp. Return the beef to the wok and toss everything together until well combined.

Serving Suggestions

Serve stir-fry beef in black bean sauce hot over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and texture. Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced dinner.

Variations and Substitutions

Get creative with your stir-fry beef in black bean sauce by experimenting with different proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. For a vegetarian twist, omit the meat altogether and load up on extra veggies like mushrooms, snow peas, and baby corn. Enhance the flavor profile by adding ingredients like chili peppers for heat, pineapple for sweetness, or cashews for crunch.

Tips and Tricks

Master the art of stir-frying by keeping your wok hot and your ingredients prepped and organized. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the wok, which can lead to steaming instead of searing. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure a perfectly balanced dish.

Health Benefits

Stir-fry beef in black bean sauce is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beef provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, while vegetables offer a variety of vitamins and minerals. The dish is naturally low in carbs and can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid common pitfalls like overcooking the beef, which can result in tough and chewy meat. Be mindful not to overcook the vegetables, as they should retain their vibrant color and crisp texture. Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly to prevent it from becoming too salty or overpowering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned/packet black bean sauce? While canned black bean sauce is convenient, homemade sauce often yields superior flavor and quality. However, if using canned sauce, opt for one with minimal additives and preservatives for the best results.

Can I use other meats instead of beef? Absolutely! Stir-fry beef in black bean sauce is versatile and can be made with chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu for a delicious variation.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too salty? Start with less salt and soy sauce than the recipe calls for, and adjust to taste as you go. You can also balance out the saltiness with a bit of sugar or vinegar for a well-rounded flavor profile.

And finally

In conclusion, stir-fry beef in black bean sauce is a culinary masterpiece that delights the senses and satisfies the soul. With the right ingredients, preparation, and cooking techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, fire up the wok, and embark on a flavor-filled adventure that’s sure to impress your taste buds and dinner guests alike.

How To Make Stir-Fry Beef in Black Bean Sauce