Chinese Stir-Fried Beef with Black Bean Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender strips of beef stir-fried with fermented black bean sauce, garlic, and bell peppers for a bold and savory dish. This chinese-inspired beef ready in about 27 minutes blends grams flank steak, fermented black beans, soy sauce into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Chinese cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Slice 400 grams flank steak thinly against the grain into strips. In a bowl, toss with 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Rinse and roughly chop 2 tablespoons fermented black beans to release flavor.
  3. Step 3: Heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated beef strips and sear for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the beef is browned but not fully cooked. Remove from wok and set aside.
  4. Step 4: In the same wok, add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon minced ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Add 1 sliced red bell pepper and 1 sliced green bell pepper, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but crisp.
  6. Step 6: Return the beef and 2 tablespoons chopped fermented black beans to the wok. Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until beef is fully cooked and sauce coats all ingredients.
  7. Step 7: Garnish with 2 chopped scallions and serve immediately with steamed rice.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Chinese Stir-Fried Beef with Black Bean Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Chinese Stir-Fried Beef with Black Bean Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Chinese Stir-Fried Beef with Black Bean Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Chinese Stir-Fried Beef with Black Bean Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Chinese Stir-Fried Beef with Black Bean Sauce?

Chinese beef like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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