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Simple Black Pepper Beef Udon

If you’re looking for a meal that delivers comfort, flavor, and a little restaurant flair — all in under 30 minutes — this Black Pepper Beef Udon is exactly what you need.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 359

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 2 packs udon noodles – Fresh udon is best for its chewy texture. Dried works too; just cook according to package directions.
  • 200 g beef thinly sliced (ribeye or flank steak work perfectly)
  • Tip: Partially freeze beef for 30 minutes before slicing — it makes thin slicing much easier.
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 white onion thinly sliced
  • 1 –2 cups Chinese cabbage chopped (or substitute bok choy, spinach, or broccoli)
  • Salt and sugar to taste
  • Marinated Beef
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp Chinese white vinegar
  • 1 tsp cornstarch or potato starch mixed with a little water (for slurry)
  • Black Pepper Sauce
  • 3 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper adjust to taste
  • 3 tbsp water
  • ½ tsp potato starch for thickening

Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • mixing bowls
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons.
  • Whisk or fork (for mixing marinades)
  • Tongs or chopsticks (for tossing noodles)

Method
 

  1. Marinate the Beef. In a medium bowl, combine minced garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, oyster sauce, vinegar, and cornstarch slurry. Add the thinly sliced beef and toss well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients — 30 minutes is even better for a more tender texture.
  2. Cook the Udon Noodles. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the udon noodles and cook for just 1–2 minutes (or as directed on the package). You want them loosened but still bouncy. Drain and rinse briefly under warm water, then set aside.
  3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions, stir-frying until fragrant and translucent. Toss in the cabbage (or your chosen greens) and cook until wilted. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and sugar, then transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.
  4. Cook the Beef. In the same wok, add a touch more oil if needed. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking — the beef should remain juicy and tender. Remove from the wok and set aside.
  5. Prepare the Black Pepper Sauce. Combine dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, water, and potato starch in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. Pour this mixture into the same wok over low heat. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
  6. Combine Everything. Add the cooked beef and udon noodles into the sauce. Toss well to coat every strand of noodle and piece of beef evenly. Add back the sautéed vegetables, stir everything together one last time, and let it cook for another 1–2 minutes to heat through.
  7. Serve. Transfer to serving bowls and enjoy hot! Garnish with a sprinkle of extra black pepper or sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

Notes

Tips & Variations
For Silky, Tender Beef: Marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors sink in and tenderize the meat.
Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetarian oyster sauce.
Want Extra Heat? Add a pinch of red chili flakes or extra black pepper for more spice.
Alternative Noodles: Substitute rice noodles, soba noodles, or even spaghetti if you don’t have udon.
Prep Ahead: Marinate the beef and mix the sauce earlier in the day — it’ll save time when cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs also work great with the same marinade and sauce.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — just use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce, and pair with rice noodles instead of udon.
What if I don’t have potato starch?
Cornstarch works perfectly fine as a thickener for both the marinade and sauce.