Beef and Broccoli is an iconic dish that captures the hearts of many around the world. Originating from Chinese cuisine, this vibrant stir-fry brings together tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that elevate your dining experience.
Why We Love This Beef and Broccoli Recipe
What makes this Beef and Broccoli recipe stand out is its delightful balance of flavors. The succulent flank steak is complemented by the crunchy, fresh broccoli, creating a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. It is quick to prepare, taking just over 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy individuals and families. Moreover, this dish allows for easy customization; you can adjust the level of sweetness and sauce thickness to your preference, or even swap out ingredients to create your personal version. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate the umami-rich soy sauce, the warm essence of ginger and garlic, and the nutty undertones from the sesame oil. This meal is not just good; it’s homemade comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients about Beef and Broccoli
To embark on this delicious culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil), divided
- 1 lb fresh broccoli, cut into 6 cups of florets
- 2 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tsp garlic, grated (from 3 cloves)
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce (or GF Tamari)
- 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Directions
Creating Beef and Broccoli at home is simple and rewarding. Start by cooking white rice since it takes about the same time as preparing your stir-fry, ensuring your meal is ready to serve immediately. To ease the slicing of the beef, freeze the flank steak for approximately 30 minutes. This will firm it up, enabling you to achieve those perfect thin slices that are essential for a delightful stir-fry.
Next, in a bowl, combine the ingredients for the stir-fry sauce: low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, corn starch, black pepper, ginger, and garlic. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved, then set this mixture aside.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat, adding the broccoli florets. Sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they turn bright green and achieve a crisp-tender texture. Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.
Now, increase the heat to high and add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. In one layer, add the sliced beef and sauté for about 2 minutes on each side or until it is cooked through. After the beef is perfectly browned, pour the prepared sauce over the meat. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your liking. If the sauce is a bit too thick, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of hot water to thin it out.
Finally, add the sautéed broccoli back to the pan and stir everything together until well combined. Your delicious Beef and Broccoli is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli
Serving Beef and Broccoli is an opportunity to showcase your culinary creation. Begin by spooning a generous portion of the stir-fry over warm, fluffy white rice. The rice acts as a comforting base that soaks up the delicious juices from the beef and broccoli. For an appealing touch, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top as a garnish. This simple addition not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful nutty flavor that balances the dish perfectly.
If you want to elevate your meal further, consider serving your Beef and Broccoli with some pickled vegetables on the side. This contrast adds a refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the stir-fry. For a more authentic experience, pair it with egg rolls or dumplings, creating a full Asian-inspired feast that friends and family will rave about.
Expert Tips: Beef and Broccoli
To elevate your Beef and Broccoli to restaurant-quality, consider these expert tips. First, always slice the flank steak against the grain. This technique ensures tenderness, making each bite melt in your mouth. For even more flavor, marinate the beef in a bit of soy sauce and cornstarch for 15 minutes before cooking – this will enhance its taste and texture.
Another important tip is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a quick process, and having everything at hand ensures you won’t scramble while trying to locate your ingredients.
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers toward the end of cooking for a spicy kick. Additionally, experimenting with different vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas can add more color and crunch to your dish.
Lastly, don’t skimp on the sesame oil; it adds a depth of flavor that truly makes this dish sing.
How to Store Beef and Broccoli
Storing your Beef and Broccoli is easy and practical. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored properly, it can last in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. Make sure to keep the rice separate to maintain its texture and freshness.
If you wish to store it for a longer duration, consider freezing the stir-fry. Place the cooled Beef and Broccoli in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it is heated through.
Variation of Beef and Broccoli
While the classic Beef and Broccoli recipe is beloved, don’t hesitate to make it your own. There are endless variations to keep your meals exciting. For a lighter take, you can substitute the flank steak with thinly sliced chicken breast or tofu, making it a wonderful option for different dietary preferences.
To add more veggies, you can incorporate sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots for a colorful medley that enhances both nutrition and taste. If you prefer a gluten-free meal, replace regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari, ensuring everyone can enjoy your creation.
Experimenting with different stir-fry sauces is another great way to vary the flavors. Try adding oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or even a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity flourish in the kitchen!
FAQ about Beef and Broccoli
What is the best cut of beef for Beef and Broccoli?
The best cut to use is flank steak, as it is tender and works perfectly for stir-frying. You could also use sirloin or ribeye if you prefer.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this dish?
Yes, if fresh broccoli is not available, you can certainly use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it beforehand to avoid excess water in your stir-fry.
How can I make Beef and Broccoli spicier?
To add heat to your dish, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or even a drizzle of sriracha for that extra kick.
Is Beef and Broccoli healthy?
Beef and Broccoli can be a healthy meal, especially when you use low-sodium soy sauce and focus on fresh vegetables. It provides a good balance of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the beef with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version that is just as delicious.
Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil divided
- 1 lb fresh broccoli cut into florets (about 6 cups)
- 2 tsp. sesame seeds optional garnish
- 1 tsp. fresh ginger grated
- 2 tsp. garlic grated (from 3 cloves)
- ½ cup hot water
- 6 Tbsp. low sodium soy sauce (or GF Tamari)
- 3 Tbsp. packed light brown sugar
- 1½ Tbsp. corn starch
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
- 2 Tbsp. sesame oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, corn starch, black pepper, ginger, and garlic. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and sauté for 4-5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Remove and set aside.
- Increase heat to high, add remaining olive oil, and add sliced beef in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Pour in the sauce and stir well to coat the beef. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the sautéed broccoli back into the skillet, mixing until heated through.
- Drizzle with sesame oil before serving. Serve over rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
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