Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Bell Peppers in Spicy Black Bean Sauce

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

Quick stir-fried tender beef slices with crisp bell peppers enveloped in a savory, spicy black bean sauce. This chinese-inspired beef ready in about 27 minutes blends flank steak, thinly sliced, black bean sauce, 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 390 calories and feeds 3, 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 3 Chinese cuisine 390 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Toss 12 oz thinly sliced flank steak with 1 tsp cornstarch and 1 tbsp soy sauce; set aside for 10 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated beef slices in a single layer and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until just browned but still tender; remove beef and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Lower heat to medium-high, add 1 tbsp sesame oil, then sauté 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Add 1 sliced red bell pepper and 1 sliced green bell pepper, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until the edges are slightly charred but peppers remain crisp.
  5. Step 5: Return the beef to the wok, add 3 tbsp black bean sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 3 tbsp water, and 1/2 tsp red chili flakes. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and peppers.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 sliced green onions before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Bell Peppers in Spicy 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 Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Bell Peppers in Spicy 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 Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Bell Peppers in Spicy 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 Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Bell Peppers in Spicy Black Bean Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). 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 Stir-Fried Beef with Garlic and Bell Peppers in Spicy 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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