The aroma of sizzling beef mingling with crunchy broccoli is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Beef and broccoli, a classic dish that combines tender strips of beef with vibrant green florets, is not just a feast for the stomach but a treat for the senses. The savory soy sauce glistens on the plate, while garlic adds that perfect punch of flavor, making your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching.
This dish has been a family favorite for years, often making an appearance during our weekend get-togethers. I can still recall the first time my mom served it; I was convinced she had magic powers in the kitchen. With each bite, I felt like I was dining at a five-star restaurant instead of our cozy home. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, beef and broccoli never fails to impress and deliver an amazing flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef and broccoli recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will enjoy
- Visually stunning with its bright colors, this dish is sure to catch anyone’s eye on the dinner table
- It’s versatile enough to serve over rice or noodles, fitting any meal preference seamlessly
Ingredients for Beef And Broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Beef Flank Steak: Use about 1 pound of flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Fresh Broccoli: Choose vibrant green florets; they should be firm and free from yellowing.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds robust flavor; about 3-4 cloves should do the trick.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still packing in that umami flavor.
Oyster Sauce: This sauce enhances the depth of flavor; you’ll only need about two tablespoons.
Cornstarch: A tablespoon helps thicken your sauce perfectly, bringing all those flavors together.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil at the end adds richness and depth to your dish.
For the Sauce:
Brown Sugar: About one tablespoon will balance out the savory elements beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Beef And Broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and brown sugar. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—this is key for maximum flavor!
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While your beef marinates, bring a pot of water to boil. Add fresh broccoli florets and blanch them for about two minutes until bright green but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, throw in minced garlic and stir-fry for about thirty seconds until fragrant—watch out; you don’t want burnt garlic ruining your dish!
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Add marinated beef slices into the skillet with garlic. Sauté until browned and cooked through, which usually takes about three to four minutes. The meat should be tender yet flavorful.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once your beef is cooked through, toss in blanched broccoli. Stir everything together gently so that all components are well-coated in those lovely sauces.
Step 6: Finish with Sesame Oil
Drizzle sesame oil over your stir-fry mix as you remove it from heat—a little goes a long way! Serve immediately over rice or noodles for an unforgettable meal experience.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite as if you were dining at that imaginary five-star restaurant from my childhood!
You Must Know
- This delightful Beef and Broccoli dish offers more than just a meal; it brings together the best of flavors and textures
- The vivid colors and enticing aromas make it a showstopper at any dinner table
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To master Beef and Broccoli, start by marinating the beef while prepping the broccoli. Sear the beef first to lock in flavors, then stir-fry the broccoli. Combine them with sauce for a quick finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Beef and Broccoli! Swap out beef for chicken or tofu, use soy sauce alternatives like tamari, or add some heat with chili flakes. Make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
I still remember the first time I made Beef and Broccoli for my family. Their faces lit up as they savored every bite, making me feel like a culinary rock star in my own kitchen!
FAQs:
What is the best way to prepare Beef and Broccoli?
Preparing Beef and Broccoli involves a few essential steps. Start by slicing your beef thinly against the grain for tenderness. Marinate it briefly in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to enhance flavor. Stir-fry the marinated beef in a hot pan until it’s browned, then add the broccoli florets. Cook until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. Finish by adding a sauce made from beef broth, cornstarch, and more soy sauce for a delicious glaze.
Can I use different vegetables in Beef and Broccoli?
Absolutely! While traditional Beef and Broccoli features these two main ingredients, you can customize the recipe by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. These vegetables not only add color but also provide additional nutrients. Adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything remains tender but not overcooked.
How do I store leftover Beef and Broccoli?
Storing leftover Beef and Broccoli is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave it or stir-fry it again on medium heat until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months; just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with Beef and Broccoli?
Beef and Broccoli pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Steamed rice or fried rice are classic choices that complement its flavors well. Noodles also make an excellent alternative if you’re looking for something different. For a healthier option, serve it alongside quinoa or cauliflower rice to keep things light yet satisfying.
Conclusion for Beef And Broccoli:
In summary, making Beef and Broccoli at home is straightforward and rewarding. By following key steps like marinating the beef and choosing fresh vegetables, you create a delicious dish packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it over rice or noodles, this recipe offers versatility for any meal occasion. Don’t forget about leftovers; they make for quick lunches that taste just as good as when first cooked! Enjoy this delightful dish with your family and friends today!
Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Beef and Broccoli is a beloved stir-fry dish that perfectly marries tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli florets in a savory, umami-rich sauce. This quick one-pan meal is bursting with flavor from aromatic garlic and rich sauces, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table!
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and brown sugar. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Boil water in a pot; add broccoli florets and blanch for 2 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Cook the Beef: Add marinated beef to the skillet; sauté until browned and cooked through (3-4 minutes).
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the blanched broccoli until well-coated with sauce.
- Finish with Sesame Oil: Drizzle sesame oil over the stir-fry before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
