Beef and Broccoli

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. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests, this dish offers delightful flavors and can easily be paired with rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this delicious beef and broccoli in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of savory sauces and fresh ingredients creates an irresistible taste that rivals your favorite takeout.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this meal is suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a casual family meal or a special gathering.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from beef and essential vitamins from broccoli, this dish is both satisfying and wholesome.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Pot for boiling

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: A wok allows for high-heat cooking which helps achieve that perfect sear on the beef while keeping the broccoli crisp.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the beef and mixing sauces, ensuring that all flavors are well combined.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the beef easy and ensures uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Beef 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 Vegetables

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

How to Make Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced beef with baking soda, Shaoxing apple vinegar, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch. Mix well until all pieces are coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Mix 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 well combined. Set this aside for later use.

Step 3: Boil Broccoli

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt before adding the broccoli. Cook it for 1-2 minutes until bright green but still crisp. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat one tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok over medium-high heat until hot. Spread the marinated beef in an even layer in the pan. Cook each side for about 30 seconds until 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. Then add boiled broccoli and cook for an additional minute. Finally, return the cooked beef to the pan along with your prepared stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together for about 1-2 minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and drizzle with toasted sesame oil. Toss to combine once more before serving over rice or noodles if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade beef and broccoli!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the beef and broccoli over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite delicious.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef and broccoli with cooked noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, for a satisfying stir-fry. The noodles soak up the flavors of the sauce wonderfully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the beef and broccoli mixture in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for an enjoyable hand-held meal that’s fresh and crunchy.

Topped with Green Onions

• Garnish your dish with freshly diced green onions for added flavor and a pop of color. The crunchiness complements the tender beef and broccoli perfectly.

Paired with Pickled Vegetables

• Serve alongside pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast to the savory dish. The acidity from the pickles enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli

To achieve restaurant-quality beef and broccoli at home, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate well: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness. A longer marination can yield even better results.

• Use high heat: Cooking on high heat helps sear the beef quickly, locking in juices and creating that desirable charred flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.

• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for a more aromatic dish. Fresh herbs elevate the overall taste significantly.

• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak soy sauce or sugar levels based on personal preference. Taste as you go for the best balance.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli

Enhance your beef and broccoli meal by pairing it with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: Lightly fragrant rice that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
2. Garlic Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice tossed with garlic adds an extra layer of taste.
3. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a delightful crunch.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Tender bok choy lightly stir-fried offers a nutritious addition full of flavor.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar balances out rich flavors well.
6. Egg Noodles: Soft egg noodles tossed in sesame oil complement beef nicely while adding texture.
7. Sautéed Snap Peas: Quick sautéed snap peas add vibrant color and natural sweetness.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can act as a comforting starter alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef and Broccoli can be simple, but small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are common pitfalls to watch for:

• Boldly skip marinating: Not marinating the beef can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always take time to marinate the meat to enhance its taste and tenderness.
• Overcooking broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Blanch it for just 1-2 minutes to keep it crisp and vibrant.
• Ignoring sauce proportions: Using incorrect amounts of sauces will alter the flavor balance. Always measure your ingredients precisely for the best results.
• Using high heat too soon: Adding ingredients to a cold pan can cause uneven cooking. Ensure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the beef.
• Not cutting against the grain: Slicing beef against the grain is essential for tenderness. Take a moment to observe the grain direction and cut properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef and Broccoli

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1 month.

Reheating Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Beef and Broccoli:

What is Beef and Broccoli?

Beef and Broccoli is a popular Chinese stir-fry dish that features tender beef slices cooked with fresh broccoli in a savory sauce.

How can I customize my Beef and Broccoli?

You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or by using different proteins like chicken or turkey.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free version.

How do I ensure my beef is tender?

To ensure tender beef, slice against the grain and marinate properly before cooking. This helps break down muscle fibers.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Beef and Broccoli recipe stores well and makes excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. It’s versatile enough to suit various tastes, allowing you to incorporate different vegetables or proteins as desired. Give it a try for an easy weeknight dinner that rivals takeout!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Beef and Broccoli

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in this delightful Beef and Broccoli stir-fry that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen! This quick and easy recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting friends. Tender beef is seared to perfection and tossed with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that everyone will love. Get ready for a delicious dining experience that’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 2 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 lb broccoli, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Marinate the sliced beef with baking soda, vinegar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch for at least 15 minutes.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the sauces: oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch.
3. Blanch broccoli in boiling salted water for 1-2 minutes until bright green; drain.
4. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat; sear marinated beef until browned on both sides; remove from the pan.
5. Sauté garlic and ginger in the same pan until fragrant; add broccoli and stir-fry briefly.
6. Return beef to the pan with the prepared sauce; toss until thickened. Drizzle with sesame oil before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg