Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain excess water before cooking.

Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?

Hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and sugar can work as a substitute.

Can this stir fry be made vegetarian?

Absolutely, replace the beef with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein.

What’s the best way to slice beef for stir fry?

Freeze the beef for about 20 minutes before slicing for easier handling and thinner slices.

Delicious Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe: Quick, Tasty, and Full of Flavor

There’s nothing quite like a delicious and quick beef and broccoli stir fry to satisfy your cravings for a savory meal. A delightful blend of juicy beef strips and fresh broccoli is tossed in a savory sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe promises a flavorful and comforting plate that requires minimal effort and ingredients.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

1 lb (450 g) flank steak, thinly sliced
3 cups (300 g) broccoli florets
2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
2 tbsp (30 ml) oyster sauce
1 tbsp (15 ml) cornstarch
1 tbsp (15 ml) sugar
1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth
1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) ground ginger
Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipments

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

Large skillet or wok
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Knife and cutting board
Tongs or a spatula

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry – Step By Step

Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Broccoli
Take your flank steak and slice it into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly during the stir-fry process. Wash the broccoli florets thoroughly and let them drain to remove excess water. This step ensures that both the beef and broccoli cook properly without steaming too much in the pan.

Step 2: Make the Stir Fry Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and beef broth. Whisk together the ingredients until the cornstarch is dissolved entirely, and the mixture is smooth—a crucial step for a glossy, sticky sauce that will coat the beef and broccoli.

Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef strips to the skillet. Sear them quickly until they are browned all over but still slightly pink inside, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove and set the beef aside.

Step 4: Stir Fry the Broccoli and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Stir in the minced garlic, quickly followed by the broccoli florets. Stir-fry the broccoli for about 2 to 3 minutes until it turns bright green and is crisp-tender. Ensure the garlic does not burn, as it can turn bitter.

Step 5: Add Beef and Sauce
Return the beef strips to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat all the ingredients thoroughly. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Serve your beef and broccoli stir fry hot off the skillet, arranged over a bed of steamed white rice or brown rice for a simple yet satisfying meal. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice would serve as an excellent base. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.

Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions

To optimize your beef and broccoli stir fry:

Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the beef to achieve a good sear.
Cut the beef and broccoli uniformly for even cooking.
Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrition.

Bumping Up the Protein: Beef and Broccoli Power Meal

For those looking to increase their protein intake, this beef and broccoli stir fry can be enhanced by adding extra protein sources. Consider tossing in a handful of shelled edamame or topping your stir fry with a soft boiled egg for an added protein punch. Additionally, you could swap in chicken or shrimp alongside or instead of beef to diversify protein levels and flavors.

To ensure a protein-packed meal, stick to lean cuts and keep an eye on portion size. This not only provides muscle-building benefits but also supports weight management goals, making your weeknight dinner both satisfying and nutritious.

Cutting the Carbs: Low-Carb Beef and Broccoli Delight

If you’re intentionally watching your carbohydrate intake, this recipe can easily be adapted to fit a low-carb diet. Instead of serving the stir fry over traditional rice, opt for cauliflower rice or a bed of mixed greens. Both options present a delicious way to enjoy this dish while keeping carbs in check.

Enhancing flavor without adding carbs can be achieved by using low-sodium soy sauce and lightly drizzling toasted sesame oil over the finished dish. These simple swaps ensure you don’t miss out on the rich flavors this recipe offers, all while sticking to a lower-carb lifestyle.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply microwave until warm, or reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Stir fries can be kept in the freezer for up to a month when properly stored in a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain excess water before cooking.
Is there a substitute for oyster sauce? Hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and sugar can work as a substitute.
Can this stir fry be made vegetarian? Absolutely, replace the beef with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein.
What’s the best way to slice beef for stir fry? Freeze the beef for about 20 minutes before slicing for easier handling and thinner slices.

Savor the Flavor: Final Thoughts on This Recipe

This beef and broccoli stir fry recipe is a true celebration of flavors and convenience. It’s a versatile dish that can easily fit into a variety of dietary needs, from high protein to low carb, keeping dinner exciting every time. If you loved bringing this dish to life as much as we enjoyed sharing it, don’t hesitate to share your version with us in the comments below. Spread the joy by sharing the recipe with friends and family too!