Welcome to a deliciously easy and quick recipe that will become a staple in your meal rotation—beef broccoli stir-fry. With its vibrant colors, robust flavors, and incredible aroma, this dish is not only a visual treat but also a feast for the taste buds. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises to deliver a restaurant-quality meal right at home. It’s perfect for those busy weeknight dinners where time is of the essence, yet you don’t want to compromise on taste and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds and sliced green onions
Equipments
- Wok or large frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
How to Make Beef Broccoli Stir-Fry – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Beef. Start by thinly slicing your flank steak. Ensure your knife is sharp, as this will help achieve clean cuts and prevent tearing of the meat fibers. To make slicing easier, you can partially freeze the steak for about 15-20 minutes. This will firm up the meat and allow for more precise slices. Aim for slices that are about a quarter inch thick. Place the sliced beef into a bowl and sprinkle it with cornstarch, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure every piece is evenly coated, allowing it to marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Blanch and Prepare Broccoli. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Add the broccoli florets and allow them to blanch for about 2 minutes, just until they turn bright green and slightly tender. Quickly drain the broccoli and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps in retaining the vibrant color and crisp texture of the broccoli once it hits the heat of the wok later.
Step 3: Mix the Stir-Fry Sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This flavorful concoction will serve as the soul of your stir-fry. The oyster sauce adds depth and a subtle sweetness, while the ginger and garlic offer aromatic nuances that complement the savory profiles.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef. Heat your wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef slices, laying them in a single layer. Allow the beef to sear for about 1-2 minutes on each side until it develops a rich caramel color. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the meat rather than sear it. Cook the beef in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Add Broccoli and Sauce. With the beef slightly undercooked, add the broccoli florets to the wok. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together, ensuring each ingredient is coated with the sauce. This should take about 3-4 minutes, just enough time for the sauce to thicken and for the beef to cook through perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve. Turn off the heat and drizzle sesame oil over the stir-fry, tossing one last time. For additional flavor and presentation, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot, either as a standalone dish or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
How to Serve Beef Broccoli Stir-Fry
Beef broccoli stir-fry is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic presentation, serve it over steamed white or jasmine rice, allowing the savory sauce to soak into the grains. If you’re looking to cut carbs, consider serving it over a bed of cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles). For a more substantial meal, pair it with a light and refreshing side, such as a mixed green salad or a simple wonton soup.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a tender bite of beef, consider marinating the slices in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a little baking soda—they help to tenderize and retain moisture in the beef, keeping it juicy through the cooking process. Don’t skip on using a high-smoke-point oil, such as vegetable or peanut oil, to prevent burning when searing the beef. If you find your sauce isn’t thick enough, a quick slurry of cornstarch and water at the end can help achieve your desired texture.
Power-Packed Protein: Beef Broccoli Stir-Fry
This version of beef broccoli stir-fry is tailored for those who are focused on their protein intake. By adding tofu cubes or slices of chicken breast alongside the beef, this dish transforms into a protein powerhouse. Beans, such as edamame, can also be incorporated to pack in additional protein without altering the flavor profile.
With high-quality proteins like beef and complementary additions, this variation satisfies dietary requirements for people who are into bodybuilding or engaging in muscle recovery workouts. It’s a meal that combines nutrition without skimping on taste. Enjoy the same familiar flavors with an extra boost of protein.
Low Carb, Big Flavor: Beef Broccoli Stir-Fry Delight
For those keeping an eye on their carbohydrate intake, this low-carb beef broccoli stir-fry version is a must-try. Swap the oyster sauce with soy sauce and use a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol if needed. Instead of serving over rice, try using cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles to significantly reduce the carbs.
You can also explore adding more low-carb veggies into the stir-fry mix. Bell peppers and snow peas provide extra crunch and natural sweetness with fewer carbs. This way, you maintain both flavor and health without missing a beat!
Storage Instructions
To store your beef broccoli stir-fry, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 to 4 days. If you wish to freeze it, portion the stir-fry into individual containers and store them for up to 2 months.
When reheating, use a stovetop for best results. A gentle heat will ensure the beef doesn’t toughen, and you can reintroduce any lost moisture by adding a splash of beef broth or water.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken breast or thighs. Ensure you adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken. - What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
You can use hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and sugar as alternatives to oyster sauce. - Can I add more vegetables to the stir-fry?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for variety. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free alternative. - How do I maintain the beef’s tenderness?
Marinating the beef with baking soda, soy sauce, and cornstarch before cooking enhances tenderness.
Join the Flavor Fiesta: Share Your Beef Broccoli Experience!
This beef broccoli stir-fry is not just a dish; it’s an experience of flavors that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re adopting the high-protein or low-carb version, or sticking to the classic recipe, there’s room for creativity and personal touches. I encourage you to try this recipe, get experimental with your ingredients, and share your experiences. Don’t forget to rate, comment, and share this recipe with your friends and family. Your feedback is invaluable and inspires others to join in this culinary journey!
Authentic Beef Broccoli Stir-Fry
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- flank steak
- broccoli florets
- soy sauce
- oyster sauce
- cornstarch
- garlic
- sesame oil
- vegetable oil
- black pepper
- beef broth
- ginger
- sesame seeds and sliced green onions
Instructions
Steps
- Thinly slice the flank steak, about a quarter inch thick. Partially freeze the steak for easier slicing. Place the beef in a bowl and coat with cornstarch, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Bring a pot of water to boil. Add a pinch of salt and the broccoli florets. Blanch for 2 minutes then rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Heat the wok over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Sear the beef, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for 1-2 minutes on each side.
- Add broccoli to the wok. Pour the sauce over beef and broccoli, tossing to coat. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Turn off the heat. Drizzle with sesame oil, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot.