Beef and Broccoli

Tender Chinese beef stir fried with broccoli in a savory sauce! This Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick to prepare but is also perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, this dish stands out as a healthier alternative to takeout. Enjoy it with fluffy rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of savory sauces and spices creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish can easily be doubled for meal prep or family gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this dish is a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Preparation is key to making your Beef and Broccoli shine. Having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for high-heat stir frying, allowing for even cooking of your beef and broccoli.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the beef and mixing sauces, ensuring flavors meld perfectly.

Ingredients

Tender Chinese beef stir fried with broccoli in a savory sauce! This better than takeout beef and broccoli recipe takes less than 30 minutes to make.

For the Beef Marinade

• 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced 1/4 inch thick against the grain)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
• 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 wine
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Vegetables

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

Final Touches

• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

How to Make Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a mixing bowl, add the thinly sliced beef along with baking soda, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch. Mix until thoroughly combined. Set aside and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Stir-Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, combine oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Stir until well mixed. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Boil Broccoli

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil with a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the broccoli and cook for 1-2 minutes. Drain the broccoli and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat one tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Spread the marinated beef in a single layer in the pan. Cook for about 30 seconds on each side until seared and browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Stir Fry Everything Together

Add another tablespoon of cooking oil to the skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add boiled broccoli and cook for an additional minute. Finally, stir in cooked beef and prepared stir-fry sauce; toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve

Turn off the heat and drizzle toasted sesame oil over the mixture. Toss to combine thoroughly. Serve hot with freshly diced green onions on top alongside rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious homemade Beef and Broccoli!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious stir-fry.

Use Fresh Garnishes

• Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly diced green onions on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and a nutty taste that complements the dish well.

Pair with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, making every bite delightful.
• Fried Rice: For a heartier option, serve beef and broccoli over fried rice mixed with vegetables and eggs.

Create a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap small portions of beef and broccoli for a light, handheld meal.
• Tortilla Wraps: For a fusion twist, wrap the stir-fry in warm tortillas for a unique take.

Enjoy as a Bowl

• Rice Bowl: Serve beef and broccoli over a bed of rice, topped with extra sauce for a filling bowl meal.
• Noodle Bowl: Substitute rice with noodles for a different texture; add some chili oil for heat.

How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli

Perfecting beef and broccoli requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Marinate the Beef: Allowing the beef to marinate enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Cut Against the Grain: Slicing the flank steak against the grain helps achieve a more tender bite.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that the beef sears quickly, keeping it juicy.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Blanching broccoli briefly preserves its bright color and crunchy texture.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer thicker sauce, let it simmer longer after adding it to the stir-fry.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli

Pairing your beef and broccoli with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fried Rice: This classic side features seasoned rice stir-fried with veggies and eggs, perfect for soaking up sauce.
2. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a crunchy contrast to the tender beef.
3. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables add an authentic touch alongside beef and broccoli.
4. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing balances the richness of the dish.
5. Miso Soup: A light miso soup warms up your meal while complementing the savory flavors of beef and broccoli.
6. Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with cucumbers in rice vinegar provides a refreshing crunch that cleanses the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef and Broccoli can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to avoid those pitfalls.

• Using thick beef slices – Cutting the beef too thick can result in chewy meat. Always slice against the grain into thin strips for tenderness.
• Skipping the marinade – Neglecting to marinate the beef will lead to bland flavors. Take at least 15 minutes to let the marinade work its magic.
• Overcooking broccoli – Cooking broccoli for too long makes it mushy. Aim for just 1-2 minutes of boiling to retain its vibrant color and crunch.
• Not using enough oil – Insufficient oil can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Ensure your wok or skillet is well-oiled for a successful stir-fry.
• Ignoring the heat level – Cooking on low heat won’t give you that perfect sear on the beef. Use medium-high heat for quick cooking and browning.
• Forgetting garnish – Skipping fresh garnishes like green onions can make your dish look less appealing. Always finish with a sprinkle of green onions for added flavor and color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Beef and Broccoli

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Beef and Broccoli

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Beef and Broccoli.

Can I use other vegetables in Beef and Broccoli?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition and variety.

What type of beef is best for Beef and Broccoli?

Flank steak is highly recommended due to its tenderness when sliced thinly against the grain.

How do I make Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce in your marinade and stir-fry sauce.

Can Beef and Broccoli be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store leftovers properly for reheating later.

What should I serve with Beef and Broccoli?

Serve it hot over rice or noodles. Steamed jasmine rice complements it perfectly!

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying! It’s a versatile dish that you can customize with different veggies or sauces based on your preference. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try today!