Black Pepper Angus Steak: A Flavorful Stir-Fry Ready in 20 Minutes

Craving the savory delight of Panda Express’s Black Pepper Angus Steak? Now you can recreate this popular dish at home in just 20 minutes. This homemade version offers a healthier and more affordable alternative to takeout, delivering bold flavors and tender steak in every bite.

What is Black Pepper Angus Steak?

Black Pepper Angus Steak, sometimes referred to as Shanghai Angus Steak, is a beloved dish at Panda Express. It features seared Angus steak stir-fried with bell peppers and onions, all coated in a savory black pepper sauce. This stir-fry combines tender beef with crisp vegetables, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Why You’ll Love Black Pepper Angus Steak Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: After marinating, the cooking process takes just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Rich Umami Flavor: The black pepper sauce provides a savory depth that complements the seared steak and vegetables.

• Ingredient Flexibility: Feel free to substitute the protein or vegetables to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Healthier Than Takeout: By controlling the ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both nutritious and budget-friendly.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a comprehensive list of ingredients required for this Black Pepper Angus Steak recipe:

Ingredient Quantity

Angus sirloin steak 1 lb (450g), thinly sliced

Light soy sauce 2 tablespoons

Dark soy sauce 1 tablespoon

Dry sherry (or apple cider vinegar) 1 tablespoon

Cornstarch 1 tablespoon

Beef broth 1/4 cup (60ml)

Sesame oil 1 teaspoon

Sugar 1 teaspoon

Freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon

Red bell pepper 1, sliced

Green bell pepper 1, sliced

Onion 1 medium, sliced

Garlic 3 cloves, minced

Ginger 1-inch piece, minced

Cooking oil 2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced Angus steak with light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, dry sherry, cornstarch, beef broth, sesame oil, sugar, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure the beef is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes; for optimal flavor, marinate in the refrigerator overnight.

2. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear the beef until browned on all sides, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the sliced red and green bell peppers, along with the sliced onion. Stir-fry the vegetables until they become tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Combine and Finish: Return the seared beef to the wok with the vegetables. Add the minced garlic and ginger. Pour in any remaining marinade. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.

5. Serve: Transfer the Black Pepper Angus Steak to a serving dish. Garnish with additional freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Expert Tips for Success

• Marination: Allowing the beef to marinate overnight enhances the depth of flavor and tenderness.

• Ingredient Substitutions: For a low-carb version, replace cornstarch with xanthan gum and sugar with a brown sugar substitute. To make the dish gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

• Garnishing: Sprinkle coarse sea salt and toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for added texture and flavor.

Variations to Try

• Alternative Proteins: Substitute the Angus steak with pork, shrimp, or tofu for a different take on the dish.

• Vegetable Options: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or green beans to add variety.

• Spice Level: For those who enjoy heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers during the stir-fry process.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: Place the cooled Black Pepper Angus Steak in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to six months.

• Reheating: To reheat, use a microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What cut of beef is best for this recipe?

Angus sirloin steak is ideal due to its tenderness and flavor. However, other cuts like flank steak or skirt steak can also be used.

• How many calories are in a serving of Black Pepper Angus Steak?

Each serving contains approximately 265 calories, making it a balanced option for a hearty meal.

Based on the provided ingredients, the Black Pepper Angus Steak recipe is designed to serve approximately 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes.

Nutritional Information per Serving (approximate):

Calories: Approximately 210 to 265 kcal

Protein: Approximately 19 to 23 grams

The variation in nutritional values depends on specific ingredient quantities and preparation methods.

Regarding the difficulty level, this recipe is considered easy to prepare, especially for those with basic cooking skills and familiarity with stir-frying techniques.

Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.