Black pepper sauce, known as 黑胡椒汁 (hēi hújiāo zhī) in Chinese, is a popular sauce in many cuisines, especially in Asian cooking. It typically features a base of minced aromatics like garlic and onion, combined with soy sauce, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. This sauce is known for its rich, spicy flavor and is commonly used with beef, chicken, shrimp, and even tofu dishes.

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

1 cup beef broth or water
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 onion, minced
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (starch water)
2 tablespoons vegetable cooking oil or butter
1/2 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
1/2 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper

Soy Sauce: Mixing light soy sauce with a small amount of dark soy sauce enhances the color and flavor of the sauce.
Butter vs. Oil: For a richer flavor, you can use butter in some recipes, but vegetable oil is recommended for pouring over dishes.
Starch Water: Ensure you stir the cornstarch and water mixture before adding it to avoid clumping.

Begin by mincing the garlic and onion. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and onion, frying until they become soft and aromatic.

Pour in the ground black pepper, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and salt. If you are using beef broth or water, add it at this stage to create the sauce base.

Mix the cornstarch with water to create a smooth starch water. Slowly pour this mixture into the skillet while stirring continuously. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for another minute until it thickens.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more black pepper for extra heat or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

If you make a larger batch, you can store the black pepper sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat it gently before use, as the sauce may thicken when stored.

Black pepper sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some popular ways to use it:

With Steak: Drizzle over grilled or pan-seared steak for a flavorful kick.
Stir-Fries: Use it as a sauce for beef, chicken, or vegetable stir-fries.
Seafood: Pair it with shrimp or fish for a spicy seafood dish.
Tofu: Toss it with fried tofu and vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

This simple black pepper sauce recipe is an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a flavorful sauce that complements a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re grilling steak or sautéing vegetables, this sauce will enhance your meals with its aromatic and spicy profile. Enjoy experimenting with it in your kitchen!