Beef and Broccoli

Tender Chinese beef stir fried with broccoli in a savory sauce! This better than takeout beef and broccoli recipe takes less than 30 minutes to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to impress with its rich flavors and vibrant colors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of cook time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
• Savory Flavors: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering taste that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Healthier Option: Using lean flank steak and fresh broccoli makes this dish a healthier choice compared to takeout alternatives.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or even on its own for a satisfying meal that’s adaptable to your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender beef and crunchy broccoli in this easy stir-fry.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best beef and broccoli, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Pot for boiling broccoli
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for high-heat cooking, allowing you to sear the beef perfectly while keeping it tender.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating the beef and mixing sauces without making a mess.
• Pot for boiling broccoli: Ensures the broccoli retains its vibrant color and crunch by blanching it quickly.

Ingredients

To create your Beef and Broccoli masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:

For Marinating the Beef

• 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 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 Stir-Frying

• 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

Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful Beef and Broccoli dish.

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 another small mixing bowl, combine the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Stir 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 and cook for 1-2 minutes. Drain immediately and set aside to retain its bright color.

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 per 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 same skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add in the boiled broccoli; cook for an additional minute. Lastly, return your cooked beef along with stir-fry sauce to the pan. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes or until coated evenly with sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Turn off the heat. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil before serving. Enjoy your Beef and Broccoli over rice or as is!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways. Its savory flavors and tender texture make it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of steamed rice for a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef and broccoli with cooked egg noodles or rice noodles for a satisfying stir-fry experience.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the beef and broccoli mixture into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option that’s fun to eat.

Topped with Green Onions

• Garnish your dish with freshly diced green onions to add a burst of flavor and color.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a family-style platter by serving beef and broccoli alongside other stir-fried vegetables for variety.

How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli

Achieving the perfect beef and broccoli requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Cutting Against the Grain: Slice the flank steak against the grain for tender pieces that are easy to chew.
• Marinating Time: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes; this enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Proper Heat: Use high heat when cooking to achieve that signature stir-fry sear on the beef.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can steam the meat instead of searing it.
• Thickening Sauce: Ensure your stir-fry sauce thickens by adding cornstarch towards the end of cooking.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning before serving; you can add more soy sauce or pepper as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with your beef and broccoli can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors well.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that pairs beautifully with stir-fries, soaking up all the sauce.
2. Fried Rice: Enhance your meal with vegetable fried rice for added flavors and textures.
3. Sesame Noodles: These cold noodles tossed in sesame oil provide a nice contrast to the warm beef dish.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas adds color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a light start or side that balances the richness of the main dish.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with vinegar adds crunch and acidity to counterbalance the savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef and Broccoli, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the beef enhances its flavor and tenderness. Always allow time for marination to ensure a juicy result.
• Overcooking broccoli: Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy. Boil it just enough to maintain its crunch and vibrant color.
• Not using a hot pan: A hot wok or skillet is essential for searing the beef properly. Preheat your pan before adding the meat to achieve that perfect sear.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the beef and broccoli. Keep an eye on it while cooking and adjust with cornstarch if necessary.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: Quality soy sauce impacts the dish’s overall taste. Invest in good soy sauce for a richer flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Beef and Broccoli

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags to save space and prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Beef and Broccoli.

What is Beef and Broccoli?

Beef and Broccoli is a popular Chinese stir-fry dish featuring tender beef slices cooked with fresh broccoli in a savory sauce. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any meal!

Can I use other vegetables in Beef and Broccoli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrients. Customize it based on your preferences!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Beef and Broccoli gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Check labels on other sauces as well to ensure they are gluten-free.

Is Beef and Broccoli healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the broccoli. Adjusting the oil used can make it even healthier.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! However, be sure to thaw it beforehand or adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite veggies or sauces. It’s perfect for dinner or lunch any day of the week. Give it a try tonight!