Black pepper sauce (黑胡椒汁) is a savory sauce that combines the bold flavor of black pepper with various aromatics and seasonings. It typically includes ingredients like minced garlic, onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a thickening agent such as cornstarch. The result is a thick, flavorful sauce that pairs wonderfully with meats and vegetables alike.

To make a delicious black pepper sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Aromatics: Minced garlic and onion provide a fragrant base.
Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce adds saltiness and depth of flavor.
Oyster Sauce: This ingredient contributes umami and a hint of sweetness.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black peppercorns are essential for that signature heat.
Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy finish.
Vegetable Oil: For sautéing the aromatics.

Prepare the Ingredients: Mince 4 garlic cloves and 1/4 onion. Set aside.
Heat the Oil: In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and onion to the pan. Sauté until they are fragrant and slightly softened.
Add Seasonings: Pour in 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dark soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce. Stir well.
Incorporate Black Pepper: Add 1/2 tablespoon of freshly ground black pepper. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Thicken the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this mixture into the sauce, allowing it to simmer until thickened (about 1 minute).
Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding a pinch of salt or sugar to balance flavors.

If you make a larger batch, you can store the black pepper sauce in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just reheat it gently before using.

Black pepper sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some popular dishes you can make using this sauce:

Black Pepper Beef Stir-Fry: Sauté thinly sliced beef with bell peppers and onions, then toss in the black pepper sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
Black Pepper Chicken: Marinate chicken pieces in the sauce before stir-frying for a flavorful dish that pairs well with rice.
Seafood Stir-Fry: Use the sauce to enhance shrimp or fish, creating a delightful seafood dish.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Drizzle over stir-fried vegetables for an extra kick of flavor.

Making your own Chinese black pepper sauce at home is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and flavorful sauce that elevates any dish. Whether you’re preparing a quick stir-fry or a more elaborate meal, this sauce will surely impress your family and friends. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!