Braised Black Pepper Beef

Braised Black Pepper Beef Braised Black Pepper Beef is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef with a rich, aromatic sauce. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a satisfying weeknight meal. With bold black pepper and savory ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Ingredients: 1.5 pounds beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch cubes 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 large onions, finely chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons oyster sauce 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 cup beef broth 1 teaspoon sugar 3 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper 1 teaspoon sesame oil 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening) Fresh cilantro for garnish Instructions/How to Cook: Prepare the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside. Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add the remaining vegetable oil. Sauté the onions until softened and lightly caramelized, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Create the braising liquid: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, beef broth, and sugar to the pot. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook the beef: Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Braise the beef for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until it becomes fork-tender. Add black pepper: Once the beef is tender, stir in the black pepper and sesame oil. If you'd like a thicker sauce, make a slurry by mixing the cornstarch with a little water, then stir it into the sauce to thicken. Simmer to finish: Let the sauce simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Cooking Tips: Cutting the beef: For the best results, use a tougher cut of beef like chuck or brisket that becomes tender when braised. Black pepper: Use coarsely ground black pepper for the best flavor and texture. Adjust seasoning: Taste the braising liquid before finishing and adjust the seasoning to your liking with more soy sauce or vinegar if needed. How to Serve: Braised Black Pepper Beef pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or a side of sautéed vegetables. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for an extra touch of color and flavor.