Thereβs something utterly enchanting about the aroma of beef and broccoli wafting through your kitchen. Picture tender strips of beef sizzling next to vibrant green broccoli florets, all coated in a glossy, savory sauce that makes your taste buds dance. Each bite offers a delightful crunch alongside the melt-in-your-mouth experience of perfectly cooked beef, making this dish an irresistible favorite.
As I stand over the stove, stirring the bubbling mixture, I canβt help but reminisce about family dinners where this dish always stole the show. Whether itβs a cozy weeknight or an exciting gathering with friends, nothing brings everyone together like a hearty plate of beef and broccoli. Trust me; youβre in for an amazing flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy beef and broccoli recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds
- Itβs visually appealing with its bright colors, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
- Versatile enough to be served over rice or noodles, it caters to all preferences!
One memorable night, my friend asked me to whip up this dish for her birthday dinner. The way her eyes lit up with each bite was priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Beef Flank Steak: Choose lean cuts for maximum tenderness and flavor; slice against the grain for best results.
-
Fresh Broccoli: Look for vibrant green florets; they should be firm and tightly packed for optimal crunch.
-
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still delivering that umami punch.
-
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic depth; avoid pre-minced varieties if you can help it.
-
Ginger: Fresh ginger root complements the dish with warmth; peel and grate before use for maximum flavor.
-
Cornstarch: A thickening agent that helps create that luscious sauce coating without being gloopy.
-
Sesame Oil: A drizzle adds nutty undertones; just a little goes a long way!
For the Sauce:
-
Beef Broth or Water: Use broth for richer flavor in your sauce; water works in a pinch too!
-
Sugar: Balances out flavors beautifullyβbrown sugar can add an extra layer of complexity.
-
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended if you like a hint of spice to liven things up!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it Together
Preparation Phase: Start by prepping your ingredients! Slice your beef into thin strips against the grain and chop your fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Mince your garlic and grate fresh ginger to release their wonderful aromas.
Cooking Phase: Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the sliced beef in batches so they sear instead of steam. Cook until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes, then remove from skillet.
Vegetable Phase: In the same skillet, toss in your broccoli florets along with minced garlic and grated ginger. SautΓ© until the broccoli turns bright green and tender-crispβabout 4-5 minutesβwhile enjoying that mouthwatering scent!
Sauce Phase: Return the beef to the pan and pour in your sauce mixture made from soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch mixed with water, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and bubblyβthis should take about 2-3 minutes.
Serve Phase: Once everything is combined nicely and heated through, serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds if youβre feeling fancy! Enjoy every blissful bite with family or friends.
Youβve just created a delicious meal thatβs sure to impress! Now grab those chopsticks (or forks) and dig in because lifeβs too short not to enjoy tasty food!
You Must Know
- This delicious beef and broccoli recipe combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce
- Itβs not just tasty; the vibrant colors and enticing aromas make it a feast for both the eyes and stomach
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is sure to impress!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the beef for at least 30 minutes. Heat your pan until itβs sizzling hot before adding the meat for a perfect sear, then stir-fry the broccoli separately to keep its crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the broccoli for asparagus or bell peppers if youβre feeling adventurous. Add some garlic or ginger for an extra flavor kick. Customize this dish based on what you have at home!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use flank steak or sirloin for tenderness and flavor
- Donβt overcrowd your pan during cooking; it ensures even browning and prevents steaming
- Always serve with steamed rice or noodles to soak up that delicious sauce!
Cooking beef and broccoli always reminds me of family gatherings where we would feast together, laughing over bowls of steaming rice topped with this delightful dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, but fresh broccoli gives better texture and flavor.
What type of beef is best for stir-frying?
Flank steak or sirloin works best due to their tenderness after cooking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef and Broccoli is a classic dish that brings together tender strips of beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, creating a delightful flavor experience. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe can be served over rice or noodles, making it a versatile favorite that pleases everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef flank steak, sliced against the grain
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Slice the beef and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic and grate ginger.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced beef in batches; sear until browned (3-4 minutes) then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli, garlic, and ginger; sautΓ© until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp (4-5 minutes).
- Return beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce mixture (soy sauce, broth, sugar, cornstarch slurry, and red pepper flakes). Stir until well-coated and bubbly (2-3 minutes).
- Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added crunch, stir-fry broccoli separately before adding it back to the dish. Feel free to substitute broccoli with asparagus or bell peppers for variation.