Stir-Fried Beef with Black Bean Sauce

Instructions

1. Marinate the beef
   In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of white pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
2. Prepare the sauce
   In a small bowl, combine the fermented black beans, remaining soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and cornstarch slurry. Mix well and set aside.
3. Heat the wok
   Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until smoking. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat the surface.
4. Stir-fry the beef
   Add the marinated beef to the hot wok, spreading it out in a single layer. Let it sear for 30 seconds without stirring, then stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the beef is browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove from the wok and set aside.
5. Cook the aromatics
   Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add the minced garlic and julienned ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add vegetables
   Add the bell peppers to the wok and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften but still maintain their crispness.
7. Combine and finish
   Return the beef to the wok, add the prepared sauce, and toss everything together. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients evenly. Add the green onions and stir-fry for another 30 seconds.