Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that brings together tender strips of beef and vibrant green broccoli in a savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. This classic recipe has its roots in Chinese cuisine, where stir-frying is a beloved cooking technique that dates back centuries. The quick cooking method not only preserves the nutrients in the vegetables but also locks in the flavors, making it a favorite among home cooks and restaurant-goers alike.

What I love most about Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is its perfect balance of taste and texture. The succulent beef pairs beautifully with the crisp-tender broccoli, creating a satisfying meal that is both hearty and healthy. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to whip up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1/4 cup of beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, beef broth (or water), sesame oil, and sugar. Whisk these ingredients together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This will be our marinade and sauce for the stir-fry. 2. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well coated. I like to let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for a couple of hours in the refrigerator can enhance the flavor even more.

Preparing the Broccoli

3. While the beef is marinating, prepare the broccoli. Rinse the florets under cold water and then cut them into bite-sized pieces if they are too large. 4. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. 5. After blanching, immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crunch. Once cooled, drain and set aside.

Cooking the Beef

6. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan. 7. Add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook the beef in batches. Sear the beef for about 2-3 minutes without stirring, allowing it to develop a nice brown crust. 8. After the beef has browned, stir it occasionally for another 2-3 minutes until it is cooked through. The beef should be tender and no longer pink in the center. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Cooking the Vegetables

9. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them. 10. Next, add the blanched broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry the broccoli for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the garlic and ginger. 11. If you like your broccoli a bit softer, you can add a splash of water to the skillet and cover it for a minute to steam the broccoli slightly.

Combining Everything

12. Once the broccoli is cooked to your liking, return the beef to the skillet. Pour the remaining marinade over the beef and broccoli mixture. 13. Stir everything together, ensuring that the beef and broccoli are well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the ingredients. 14. Taste the stir-fry and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a bit more flavor, you can add a splash more of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish.

Serving the Dish

15. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. 16. Serve the beef and broccoli stir-fry over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. I love to garnish it with some sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch. 17. Enjoy your delicious homemade beef and broccoli stir-fry! It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something flavorful and healthy.

Tips for Success

– Make sure to slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness. – You can customize this stir-fry by adding other vegetables like

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry recipe, I can’t emphasize enough why it’s a must-try for anyone looking to whip up a quick, nutritious, and utterly delicious meal. The combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste! For serving suggestions, consider pairing this stir-fry with fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also toss in some bell peppers, snap peas, or even mushrooms for added texture and flavor. And for those who prefer a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha can elevate the dish to new heights. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry a try. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that you can easily customize to suit your palate. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking! Print