Black Pepper Beef, known as Hei Jiao Niu Liu in Chinese, is a popular stir-fry dish that highlights the bold flavor of black pepper. This dish typically features thinly sliced beef, bell peppers, and onions, all coated in a savory black pepper sauce. It’s a favorite in many Asian cuisines, including Malaysian, where the use of fresh black pepper enhances the dish’s aroma and taste.

500g beef (flank steak or any quick-cooking cut)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce (kicap manis)
1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
1 piece ginger, grated

1 medium onion, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 medium potato, cut into wedges (optional)
60ml vegetable oil
60ml water
Fresh coriander or spring onions for garnish

Start by slicing your beef against the grain into thin strips. This helps to tenderize the meat. In a bowl, combine the beef with oyster sauce, sweet soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and coarsely ground black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

While the beef is marinating, chop the onion and bell peppers into strips. If you’re using potatoes, pre-cook them in oil or an air fryer until they are golden brown.

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated beef to the pan, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook for about 3 minutes until browned.
Add the sliced onion and bell peppers, stirring frequently for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
If you pre-cooked potatoes, add them to the stir-fry now along with 60ml of water. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Once everything is cooked through, garnish with fresh coriander or spring onions. Serve your Malaysian Black Pepper Beef hot over steamed rice for a complete meal.

Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Flank steak or sirloin works well, as they are tender and cook quickly.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper: For the best flavor, use freshly cracked black pepper instead of pre-ground. This enhances the dish's aroma and taste.
Don’t Overcook the Beef: Since the beef is sliced thin, it cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming tough.

The Malaysian Black Pepper Beef recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the bold flavors of black pepper, tender beef, and colorful vegetables. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy this flavorful stir-fry with family and friends, and watch them come back for seconds!

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