Beef and Broccoli

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, this Beef and Broccoli recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those dishes that brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. The tender beef stir-fried with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce makes it a favorite for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Plus, it comes together in less than 30 minutes—what’s not to love?

This recipe is not only easy to whip up, but it also delivers on flavor. You’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again, whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends. Let’s dive into all the reasons why you’ll adore this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 5 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender beef and vibrant broccoli—perfect for picky eaters!
• Versatile Dish: Great for meal prep! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Hearty & Healthy: Packed with protein from the beef and nutrients from the broccoli, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Better Than Takeout: Save money and enjoy homemade flavors that rival your favorite restaurant!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Beef and Broccoli dish requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Gather these items, and let’s get cooking!

For the Marinade

• 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 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry Sauce

• 1 1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 lb broccoli (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 tablespoon ginger (minced)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! Here are some fun ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Try chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add extra veggies: Throw in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce if you love heat!
• Go gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

How to Make Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by marinating the beef! In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with baking soda, Shaoxing apple vinegar, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch. Mix until everything is evenly coated. This step is crucial as it helps tenderize the meat and infuse great flavor. Set aside for at least 15 minutes while you prepare other elements.

Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce

Next up is mixing our stir-fry sauce! In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch until combined. This delightful mixture will give your dish that signature savory taste we all crave.

Step 3: Boil Broccoli

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Once boiling, add in your bite-sized broccoli pieces and cook them for just 1-2 minutes until they’re bright green yet still crisp. Draining them afterward stops the cooking process—it ensures they maintain their lovely crunch!

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat one tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Spread out your marinated beef in an even layer and let it sear for about 30 seconds on each side until nicely browned. This step locks in the juices so your beef stays tender.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Everything Together

Now add another tablespoon of cooking oil to your skillet on medium-high heat. Toss in minced garlic and ginger; sauté them until fragrant—about 30 seconds does the trick! Then mix in your boiled broccoli followed by the seared beef and stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until well-coated; you’ll see that wonderful thickened sauce enveloping every ingredient.

Step 6: Serve!

Finally, turn off the heat and drizzle in toasted sesame oil before giving it one last toss. Serve your beautiful Beef and Broccoli over freshly cooked rice topped with diced green onions if desired. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Beef and Broccoli

Preparing Beef and Broccoli at home can be a delightful experience, especially when you know these handy tips!

• Slice Against the Grain: Ensuring you slice the flank steak against the grain helps break down muscle fibers, resulting in tender pieces of beef that are easier to chew.
• Marinate Longer for Flavor: If time allows, marinate your beef for up to an hour. This enhances the flavor and tenderness, making every bite more delicious.
• Control Your Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat is crucial. It sears the beef quickly, locking in juices while keeping it tender rather than allowing it to steam and become tough.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Boil broccoli just until bright green and tender-crisp. Overcooking will lead to soggy broccoli that doesn’t add that satisfying crunch to your dish.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to double the stir-fry sauce ingredients. Just remember to adjust cooking time accordingly so it thickens perfectly.

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Presenting your Beef and Broccoli beautifully can elevate the meal from simple to spectacular! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Freshly diced green onions not only add a pop of color but also provide a mild onion flavor that complements the savory sauce beautifully.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds over your finished dish adds a delightful crunch and nutty aroma that enhances the overall experience.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic accompaniment, jasmine rice serves as a fluffy base that soaks up all those wonderful flavors from the stir-fry sauce.
• Fried Rice: For something with a little more texture, try serving alongside fried rice. It’s a great way to use leftover rice while adding extra vegetables and protein.
• Egg Drop Soup: This comforting soup pairs perfectly with Beef and Broccoli, providing a warm and soothing contrast to the robust flavors of the stir-fry.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can enhance your meal’s nutritional value while adding vibrant hues to your plate.

Enjoy your culinary creation with friends or family! Your homemade Beef and Broccoli is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Beef and Broccoli recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your delicious stir-fry fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the beef and broccoli to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down to room temperature before freezing.
• Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated thoroughly, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use another cut of beef for Beef and Broccoli?

Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just ensure they are sliced thinly against the grain for the best texture.

What can I serve with Beef and Broccoli?

Beef and Broccoli pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal!

How long does it take to make Beef and Broccoli?

This dish comes together quickly, taking about 15 minutes in total! It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Beef and Broccoli recipe! It’s not just a quick meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings flavors of comfort right into your home. Enjoy every savory bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies or sides. Happy cooking!