Beef and Broccoli

Tender Chinese beef stir fried with broccoli in a savory sauce! This Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy this classic dish that rivals your favorite takeout, all made in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
• Flavorful: The savory sauce combines soy, oyster, and ginger for a rich taste that elevates the beef and broccoli.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the beef and nutrients from the broccoli, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice or noodles, or even enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to suit your taste.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather some essential tools before starting. Preparation is key in creating the perfect Beef and Broccoli.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Pot for boiling

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for stir-frying at high temperatures, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the beef and combining sauces effectively.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the flank steak quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized while preparing ingredients.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced 1/4 inch thick against the grain)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar
– 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 2 tablespoon water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 2 tablespoon light soy sauce
– 2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar
– 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, combine:
Thinly sliced beef
Baking soda
Shaoxing apple vinegar
Light soy sauce
Oyster sauce
White pepper
Water
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:
Oyster sauce
Light soy sauce
Dark soy sauce
Shaoxing apple vinegar
Granulated sugar
Chicken broth
Cornstarch

Mix until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Boil Broccoli

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil with a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the broccoli. Cook for about 1–2 minutes until bright green. 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. Once hot, spread the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for about 30 seconds on each side until seared and browned. Remove from the wok and set aside.

Step 5: Stir Fry Everything Together

Add one tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for around 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add boiled broccoli and cook for an additional minute. Finally, add back the beef along with the stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together for about 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats evenly. Remove from heat, drizzle with toasted sesame oil, and toss again.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your delicious Beef and Broccoli with freshly diced green onions on top alongside rice or noodles. Enjoy!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Pairing it with the right accompaniments enhances its flavor and creates a satisfying meal experience.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: This classic pairing absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor to your dish.

With Noodles

• Egg Noodles: Soft and chewy, these noodles complement the stir-fry perfectly.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free and light, they soak up the sauce well.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve beef and broccoli in crisp lettuce leaves.
• Tortilla Wraps: Use flour or corn tortillas for a fun twist on traditional serving.

Topped with Green Onions

• Fresh Green Onions: Adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color when sprinkled on top just before serving.

How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli

Achieving the perfect beef and broccoli requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Marinate Long Enough: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes for optimal flavor and tenderness.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat quickly sears the beef, keeping it juicy while creating a nice crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing.
• Add Cornstarch Wisely: Use cornstarch both for marinating and thickening the sauce; it helps create that glossy finish.
• Include Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the aroma and flavor profile of your stir fry.
• Finish with Sesame Oil: Adding toasted sesame oil at the end brightens the overall taste of your beef and broccoli.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli

Complementing your beef and broccoli with side dishes can enhance your meal’s enjoyment. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful alternative that can include vegetables, eggs, or even shrimp for added variety.
2. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables make for a delightful starter before your main course.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-cooked seasonal veggies add color, flavor, and nutrition to your plate.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting contrast to the hearty beef dish.
5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides freshness and crunch.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles help balance out the rich flavors of beef and broccoli while adding an extra layer of taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef and Broccoli, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the beef is crucial for tenderness and flavor. Don’t skip this step; let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy and loses its vibrant color. Boil it just for 1-2 minutes to keep it crisp.
• Not using high heat: Stir-frying requires high heat for quick cooking. Cooking at lower temperatures can lead to steaming instead of frying, resulting in a less desirable texture.
• Ignoring the sauce balance: The right balance of sauces is key. Follow the measurements precisely to achieve that savory flavor profile.
• Using too much oil: While some oil is needed for cooking, too much can make the dish greasy. Just enough to coat the pan will do.
• Forgetting to toss everything well: Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly in the stir-fry sauce. This guarantees every bite is flavorful.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Beef and Broccoli

• Place cooled Beef and Broccoli in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Beef and Broccoli that may help you get the best results.

What cut of beef is best for Beef and Broccoli?

Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness when sliced against the grain.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just add it directly without thawing, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

How do I make Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos in your recipe.

What’s the best way to serve Beef and Broccoli?

Serve it over steamed rice or noodles with a sprinkle of green onions for added freshness.

Can I customize this Beef and Broccoli recipe?

Absolutely! Add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Broccoli recipe offers a delightful blend of tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce that rivals takeout. It’s quick, easy, and versatile—perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauces to suit your taste!