Craving for some Chinese takeout but looking to save on calories and expenses? Say no more! This Better Than Takeout Beef Broccoli recipe is here to satisfy your cravings with its flavorful and nutritious components. Not only is it super easy to make, but it also allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
You’ll need the following kitchen tools handy:
- Wok or large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Tongs or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
How to Make Better Than Takeout Beef Broccoli – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the beef flank steak into thin, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure quick cooking and maximum tenderness in your final dish. Marinate the beef in a bowl with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Mix well until evenly coated and let it sit for 15 minutes. This marination allows the beef to absorb the flavors and helps in tenderizing it for that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
In a pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 2 minutes. This step ensures that the broccoli maintains its vibrant green color and stays crisp-tender after cooking. Once blanched, drain and quickly rinse the broccoli under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside while you prepare the beef.
Step 3: Stir-fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef slices, making sure they are spread out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Stir-fry the beef until it turns brown and is mostly cooked through, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Combine Ingredients
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in 1/4 cup beef broth and 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, stirring to combine. Return the cooked beef and blanched broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat evenly with the sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
How to Serve Better Than Takeout Beef Broccoli
To serve, transfer the beef broccoli to a decorative serving dish. Pair it with steamed white rice or quinoa if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. This delightful dish can also accompany a bowl of fried rice or noodles for the ultimate Asian culinary experience. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For tender beef, freeze it for 20 minutes before slicing. This allows for precise cutting and uniform pieces. Adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of broth. Substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for a sweeter flavor profile. Always taste-test before seasoning generously. Enjoy your meal!
Packed with Power – A High Protein Beef Broccoli Delight
Elevate your beef broccoli game by maximizing the protein content without compromising on taste. Opt for leaner cuts, like sirloin or tenderloin, that pack a protein punch. Amp up the dish with extra tofu cubes to increase its nutritious value. This high-protein version is perfect for athletes or those looking to increase their protein intake while relishing a delicious meal.
Low-Carb and Lovable: A Keto-Friendly Beef Broccoli
Transforming this classic dish into a keto-friendly delight is easier than you think! Substitute the cornstarch with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum, and replace the soy sauce with coconut aminos for a carb-conscious bite. Enjoy the full flavors of this low-carb version of beef broccoli, offering a filling meal that aligns with your dietary goals.
Storage Instructions
To store leftovers, place the cooled beef broccoli in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. For extended storage, portion and freeze in microwave-safe containers for up to two months. When reheating, opt for stovetop warming to maintain the dish’s tenderness and flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, chicken makes a great substitute and can be cooked similarly to beef with outstanding results.
- How do I prevent the broccoli from getting too mushy? Blanching the broccoli before stir-frying helps maintain its crispness.
- What can I use instead of oyster sauce? Hoisin sauce or soy sauce mixed with a bit of sugar can serve as good substitutes.
- Is this dish suitable for vegans? By using plant-based protein like tofu and a soy sauce substitute, you can easily turn this into a vegan-friendly dish.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring other ingredients are gluten-free will suffice.
Inspiring Kitchen Adventures with Beef Broccoli
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this Better Than Takeout Beef Broccoli will not disappoint. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests at dinner, this versatile recipe encourages you to experiment and embrace culinary creativity. We would love to hear about your unique take in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family and inspire their kitchen adventures.
Better Than Takeout Beef Broccoli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef flank steak
- broccoli florets
- soy sauce
- oyster sauce
- cornstarch
- vegetable oil
- garlic
- beef broth
Instructions
Steps
- Slice the beef flank steak thinly and marinate in soy sauce and cornstarch for 15 minutes.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Heat oil in a wok and stir-fry the beef slices until brown. Remove from skillet.
- Sauté garlic in the same skillet, add broccoli, beef broth, and oyster sauce. Mix and cook briefly.
- Return beef to the skillet, toss to coat with sauce, and serve hot.