Tender Chinese beef stir fried with broccoli in a savory sauce, Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for a family dinner or a lunch meal prep. With its vibrant colors and rich taste, you’ll find that this dish stands out on any dining table, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Savory: The combination of sauces creates a mouthwatering taste that rivals takeout.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the beef and nutrients from the broccoli, it’s a wholesome choice.
- Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs easily.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week without losing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking Beef and Broccoli, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and make it more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wok or large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Medium pot
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying at high heat, ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating the beef and mixing sauces efficiently.
- Medium pot: Perfect for boiling broccoli quickly while retaining its vibrant color.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced 1/4 inch thick against the grain)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
– 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 lb broccoli (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 5 garlic cloves (minced)
– 1/2 tablespoon ginger (minced)
– 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
How to Make Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a mixing bowl, add the thinly sliced beef along with baking soda, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch. Mix until thoroughly combined. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: Mix Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Mix well until combined. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Boil Broccoli
Bring a medium pot of water to boil with a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the broccoli and cook for 1–2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Heat one tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Spread the marinated beef onto a single layer in the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds on each side until seared and browned. Remove from wok and set aside.
Step 5: Stir Fry Everything Together
Add another tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet on medium-high heat. When hot, add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli to the pan and cook for another minute. Finally, return the beef to the pan along with the stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes until thickened and well coated. Turn off heat and stir in sesame oil.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your delicious Beef and Broccoli immediately with freshly diced green onions on top alongside rice. Enjoy!
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli
Beef and broccoli is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. You can serve it in different ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some suggestions for serving this delicious meal.
Over Rice
- White Rice: Fluffy white rice complements the savory sauce beautifully.
- Brown Rice: A healthier alternative, brown rice adds a nutty flavor.
- Fried Rice: For extra flavors, serve with fried rice mixed with vegetables.
With Noodles
- Lo Mein: Toss beef and broccoli with lo mein for a hearty meal.
- Rice Noodles: These gluten-free noodles soak up the sauce wonderfully.
Garnishes
- Green Onions: Freshly diced green onions add a crunch and brightness.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
As a Wrap
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the beef and broccoli for a fun, low-carb option.
- Tortilla Wraps: Flour tortillas can be used to create savory wraps filled with beef.
How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli
Perfecting your beef and broccoli involves attention to detail at every step. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve restaurant-quality results.
- Choose the Right Cut: Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness when sliced thinly against the grain.
- Marinate Properly: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- High Heat Cooking: Use high heat when stir-frying for a quick sear that locks in juices.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and ginger for maximum flavor impact.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli
Pairing side dishes with beef and broccoli can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fragrant jasmine rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly, making each bite delightful.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas adds nutrition and variety.
- Egg Fried Rice: This dish combines eggs with rice, providing an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with beef.
- Chinese Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in sesame oil balances the rich flavors of beef and broccoli.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls make for a crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the tender meat.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting flavors that complement the main dish well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Beef and Broccoli, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few things to watch out for:
- Not slicing the beef properly: Always slice flank steak against the grain for tender pieces. This ensures each bite is easy to chew.
- Overcooking the broccoli: Cook broccoli just until bright green and tender-crisp. Overcooking can make it mushy and dull in flavor.
- Skipping the marination step: Marinating beef enhances its flavor and tenderness. Take at least 15 minutes to let the beef soak in the marinade.
- Using too much sauce: Balance is key! Use the right amount of sauce to coat without drowning the dish, allowing all ingredients to shine.
- Rushing the cooking process: Stir-frying should be done quickly over high heat. Take your time with each step for optimal flavor development.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Beef and Broccoli
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Beef and Broccoli
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying Beef and Broccoli.
How do I make Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?
You can substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Ensure other sauces used are also gluten-free.
Can I use other vegetables in Beef and Broccoli?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
What cut of beef is best for Beef and Broccoli?
Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness when sliced correctly. You could also use sirloin or ribeye as alternatives.
How do I enhance the flavors in my Beef and Broccoli?
Incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions as garnishes adds freshness. A dash of chili oil can also provide a spicy kick!
Final Thoughts
Beef and Broccoli is a fantastic recipe that brings together tender beef with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but also versatile enough for gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spice level. Enjoy creating this delightful dish at home!
Beef and Broccoli
Beef and Broccoli is a classic Chinese stir-fry that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen. Succulent flank steak is marinated and quickly cooked with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, making this dish a go-to option for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. The combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli, all coated in a delicious sauce, makes every bite flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this easy recipe that not only rivals restaurant quality but also allows you to customize ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced)
- 1 lb broccoli (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Marinate the beef with baking soda, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch for at least 15 minutes.
- Mix together the stir-fry sauce using oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch.
- Boil broccoli in salted water for 1–2 minutes until bright green; drain and set aside.
- In a hot wok or skillet with oil, sear the marinated beef until browned; remove and set aside.
- Stir-fry garlic and ginger before adding broccoli back to the pan. Return the beef along with the stir-fry sauce; toss until thickened and well combined.
- Drizzle with sesame oil before serving over rice or noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
