Marinade the beef strips with soy sauce and pepper at least 15 minutes.
In a small wok or large skillet heat oil and stir fry the beef strips until it turns brown and sizzles. Set aside.
Heat oil again and saute garlic, onion and ampalaya.
Then add the oyster sauce, black beans and 1/4 cup water and simmer for at least 3 minutes.
Add the cooked beef and put a little magic sarap, about 1/2 tsp. then add the sugar.
Season with salt and mix then simmer again for a few seconds.
Turn off heat and serve hot.
Video
Watch the Video on How to Cook Beef Ampalaya:
Notes
Cooking Tips:
Slice the Beef Thinly Against the Grain
Cutting the beef thin and against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite tender and easy to chew. This is especially important since beef cooks quickly in high heat and can become tough if sliced incorrectly. Using a sharp knife and partially freezing the meat for 15 minutes makes slicing much easier.
Control the Bitterness of Ampalaya
If you prefer a milder taste, soak the sliced ampalaya in salted water for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This draws out some of the bitter compounds without removing its distinct flavor completely. Make sure to rinse and pat it dry to prevent excess water from watering down the dish.
Stir-Fry in Batches for Better Flavor
Overcrowding the pan causes the beef to steam instead of sear, losing that rich, caramelized flavor. Cook the beef in small batches over high heat so it browns beautifully. This step locks in the juices and gives the dish a deeper, more savory taste.
