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. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting dish. The combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli, all coated in a rich sauce, makes this meal a standout choice for family dinners or even entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Sauce: The savory blend of sauces creates a rich flavor that rivals any restaurant dish.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and lean beef, this dish offers both nutrition and satisfaction.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or on its own for a low-carb option.
• Easily Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.

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Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Beef and Broccoli, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures everything cooks evenly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Allows for high-heat cooking, essential for quick stir-frying to keep the beef tender.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating the beef and combining sauces without making a mess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Beef and Broccoli:

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, add the thinly sliced beef, baking soda, Shaoxing apple vinegar, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch. Mix until thoroughly combined. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Mix Stir-Fry Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Mix until everything is well blended. Set aside.

Step 3: Boil Broccoli

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

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat one tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, spread the marinated beef in a single layer and sear for 30 seconds on each side 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. When hot, add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add broccoli back into the pan and cook for an additional minute. Finally, return the cooked beef along with the stir-fry sauce to the pan. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until well coated and heated through. Turn off heat and drizzle with sesame oil before tossing again.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your flavorful Beef and Broccoli hot alongside freshly diced green onions and rice. Enjoy!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a quick lunch, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic pairing, white rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber.
• Fried Rice: Use leftover rice to make a quick fried rice, enhancing the meal with extra veggies.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein: Tossed in the stir-fry sauce, lo mein noodles complement the beef and broccoli perfectly.
• Rice Noodles: These gluten-free noodles offer a chewy texture that pairs well with the dish.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve beef and broccoli in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh bite.
• Tortilla Wraps: Use tortillas to create wraps filled with beef, broccoli, and your favorite toppings.

With Salads

• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing adds freshness and contrast to the rich flavors of the beef.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds crispness and balances the dish’s savory notes.

How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli

Perfecting beef and broccoli can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure you create a delicious dish every time.

• Choose Quality Beef: Use flank steak or sirloin for tenderness and flavor. Thin slicing against the grain ensures each bite is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Marinate Properly: Allow at least 15 minutes of marination for maximum flavor absorption. This step enhances both taste and texture.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry on high heat for quick cooking that retains the beef’s juiciness and gives the broccoli a vibrant color.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing, impacting texture.
• Add Sauce at the Right Time: Introduce your stir-fry sauce when all ingredients are ready. This prevents overcooking of vegetables while ensuring even coating.
• Finish with Sesame Oil: A drizzle of toasted sesame oil at the end enhances aroma and gives an authentic touch.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli

Pairing side dishes with beef and broccoli can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this delicious stir-fry.

1. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables make for an excellent appetizer alongside beef and broccoli.
2. Egg Fried Rice: Fluffy rice fried with scrambled eggs offers an additional layer of flavor that pairs well with the main dish.
3. Garlic Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy seasoned with garlic provides a nutritious side that complements the flavors of beef and broccoli.
4. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables add texture and crunch to your meal.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup brings comforting umami flavors, making it an excellent start to your meal.
6. Asian Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of beef and broccoli.
7. Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles tossed with vegetables create a hearty side that pairs perfectly with this dish.
8. Fried Tofu Cubes: Crispy tofu bites provide protein and soak up any remaining sauce on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef and Broccoli can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will elevate your dish.

• Incorrectly slicing the beef: Always slice flank steak against the grain for tender pieces. This step is crucial for a better texture.
• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the beef enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; allow at least 15 minutes for marination.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Boil broccoli just until bright green. Overcooking makes it mushy rather than crisp-tender. Aim for only 1-2 minutes of boiling.
• Not using high enough heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that perfect sear. Preheat your wok or skillet before adding ingredients for better results.
• Ignoring the sauce balance: The right combination of soy sauces and oyster sauce is key. Measure carefully to ensure a well-balanced flavor in your Beef and Broccoli.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Beef and Broccoli

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Beef and Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts at medium power, stirring in between to prevent uneven cooking.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beef and Broccoli?

Beef and Broccoli is a popular Chinese stir-fry dish made with tender beef slices and fresh broccoli, all tossed in a flavorful sauce.

How can I customize my Beef and Broccoli?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition. Adjust the sauce ingredients according to your taste preference as well.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can use cuts like sirloin or ribeye if flank steak isn’t available. Just ensure they are sliced thinly for optimal tenderness.

Is Beef and Broccoli healthy?

This dish can be quite healthy, especially when using lean cuts of beef and plenty of veggies. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option.

What should I serve with Beef and Broccoli?

Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also pair it with spring rolls or dumplings for a delicious spread.

Final Thoughts

Beef and Broccoli is not only quick to prepare but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that appeal to many palates. This recipe allows room for customization; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauces according to your taste preferences. Try making this comforting dish at home—you won’t be disappointed!