# How to Make Black Pepper Beef

![Finished Black Pepper Beef](./black_pepper_beef.jpg)

Black Pepper Beef is a simple and easy-to-make dish. It offers a balanced mix of vegetables and meat, is rich in protein, and has a flavor profile suitable for most people. Beginners can typically complete it in under 1 hour.

Estimated Cooking Difficulty: ★★★★

## Essential Ingredients and Tools

- Beef (beef tenderloin or steak meat can be used)
- Onion
- Bell peppers (red/yellow)
- Cornstarch
- Black pepper (powder)
- Black pepper marinade
- Salt
- Peanut oil

Note: The powder and marinade can be used interchangeably. Please refer to the instructions on the food packaging for specific quantities.

It is recommended to use a non-stick pan.

## Calculations

Determine how many servings you plan to make before each preparation. One serving is sufficient for 2-3 people.

Total Amounts:

- Beef amount = Servings * 100 grams (adjust according to the diners' appetite and pan capacity)
- Onion amount = Servings * 1/12 of an onion (i.e., approximately 1/4 for 3 people)
- Bell pepper amount = Servings * 1/12 of a pepper (i.e., approximately 1/4 for 3 people)
- Salt amount = Servings * 1 gram
- Cornstarch = Servings * 3 grams
- Black pepper marinade = Marinate according to the ratio specified on the purchased product's instructions
- Black pepper powder = Servings * 1 gram (in practice, sprinkle as desired)
- Peanut oil = Servings * 10 ml (in practice, the amount of oil varies based on the quantity of food; adjust proportionally if you change the amount of beef)

Use the above conditions to calculate the ratio of raw materials to be used.

## Instructions

- Cut the beef into strips. The length should ideally be controlled to under 8 cm, with a thickness of about 5-10 mm and a width of about 1 cm (strict requirements are not necessary).
- Marinate the beef using the marinade. Mix well and let it sit. Refer to the product instructions for the amount and time; you may extend the time but not shorten it.
- If using a liquid marinade, sprinkle a layer of black pepper powder three minutes before the marinating ends, then add the cornstarch. Mix well again and let it sit for 20 minutes.
- Turn on the heat, heat the pan, and add the peanut oil.
- When you see a wisp of smoke coming from the oil in the pan, add the beef and stir-fry.
- Use medium-high heat and stir-fry for 2 minutes until the outside of the beef changes color (i.e., no obvious red blood remains; if red blood is visible, it indicates insufficient stir-frying) (be careful of oil splatters here).
- Add the onion and bell peppers, and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Add salt, sprinkle another portion of black pepper powder, stir-fry for 30 seconds, and mix well.
- Turn off the heat once the onion has softened, remove from the pan, and plate.

## Additional Content

If you follow this guide's process and find issues or have suggestions for improvement, please submit an Issue or Pull request.