Beef and Broccoli

Tender Chinese beef stir fried with broccoli in a savory sauce! This Beef and Broccoli recipe is better than takeout and takes less than 30 minutes to make. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress guests with your cooking skills. The combination of tender beef, fresh broccoli, and a rich sauce makes it an irresistible dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The savory sauce combines multiple flavors that elevate the beef and broccoli.
• Healthy Choice: Loaded with protein and vitamins from the broccoli, it’s a nutritious meal option.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out the broccoli for your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level.
• Impressive Presentation: This dish looks beautiful on any table, making it great for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Beef and Broccoli, you’ll need just a few essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying at high heat, ensuring even cooking and flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating beef and combining sauces without spills.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.

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Ingredients

To create this flavorful Beef and Broccoli dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Beef Marinade

• 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 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry Sauce

• 1 1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Vegetables

• 1 lb broccoli (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 tablespoon ginger (minced)

For Finishing Touches

• 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, baking soda, Shaoxing apple vinegar, 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 apple vinegar, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Mix until well blended. 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 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 in a single layer in the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds on each side until seared and browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Stir Fry Everything Together

Add another tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet on medium-high heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli and cook for one minute before adding back in the beef along with stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until coated evenly.

Step 6: Serve

Turn off heat; drizzle with toasted sesame oil and toss again before serving. Enjoy your delicious Beef and Broccoli with freshly diced green onions over rice!

This recipe serves three people with an estimated preparation time of just five minutes! With only ten minutes of cooking time required, you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish in no time!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Serving beef and broccoli is an opportunity to highlight its delicious flavors and vibrant colors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dish.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: Adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber for a healthier option.
• Fried Rice: For an extra twist, serve with vegetable fried rice for added texture.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein: Toss your beef and broccoli in lo mein noodles for a hearty meal.
• Rice Noodles: These are gluten-free and provide a light base for the dish.
• Soba Noodles: Buckwheat soba noodles offer a unique flavor that pairs well with the sauce.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with beef and broccoli.
• Tortilla Wraps: For a fusion twist, roll the beef and broccoli in tortillas with additional veggies.

Garnishes

• Green Onions: Freshly diced green onions add a pop of color and crunch.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds enhance the dish’s nutty aroma.

How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli

Perfecting beef and broccoli requires attention to detail to ensure tender meat and vibrant vegetables. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Marinate Well: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This tenderizes the meat and enhances flavors.
• Cut Against the Grain: Slicing flank steak against the grain ensures tenderness in every bite.
• Use High Heat: Cook on medium-high heat for quick searing, which locks in juices and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Blanch broccoli just until bright green. This keeps it crisp-tender and vibrant.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth for desired consistency.
• Add Fresh Ingredients Last: Stir in sesame oil at the end for maximum flavor without losing its aroma.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli

Pairing sides with beef and broccoli can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light, fluffy rice that complements the savory sauce perfectly.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Crisp green beans sautéed with garlic add freshness and crunch.
3. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A medley of colorful vegetables stir-fried quickly adds nutrients and variety.
4. Egg Fried Rice: Rich with eggs, this side brings additional protein while complementing flavors well.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers dressed in vinegar balances out the richness of beef.
6. Miso Soup: Light soup that warms up your meal while providing umami flavor without being heavy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef and Broccoli, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for the best results!

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the beef to marinate can lead to tougher meat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
• Overcooking Broccoli: Cooking broccoli for too long can make it mushy. Boil for just 1-2 minutes to maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold beef or broth can affect cooking times. Bring ingredients to room temperature for even cooking.
• Not Prepping Ahead: Failing to prepare all ingredients before cooking can lead to confusion. Chop and measure everything before you start for a smooth cooking process.
• Ignoring Sauce Thickness: Not letting the sauce thicken properly can result in a watery dish. Allow it to simmer until it coats the beef and broccoli well.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Every ingredient has different salt levels. Taste and adjust seasoning to suit your preference before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Beef and Broccoli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Beef and Broccoli.

What type of beef is best for Beef and Broccoli?

Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness when sliced against the grain, but you can also use sirloin or ribeye.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I make my Beef and Broccoli sauce thicker?

You can add extra cornstarch mixed with water during cooking or allow the sauce to simmer longer until it thickens.

Is Beef and Broccoli healthy?

Beef and Broccoli is a balanced dish with protein from beef and fiber from broccoli. It can be made healthier by using less oil or low-sodium sauces.

Can I customize this Beef and Broccoli recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, or adjust the sauce ingredients based on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Broccoli recipe offers a delicious taste of Chinese cuisine that you can easily make at home. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, allowing plenty of room for customization based on your favorite vegetables or flavors. Give it a try, and enjoy a satisfying meal!