Beef and Broccoli

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Introduction

Beef and Broccoli is a beloved Chinese-American classic that combines tender strips of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory, umami-rich sauce in perfect harmony. Known for its simplicity and bold flavors, this dish is a go-to choice for quick, delicious weeknight dinners or satisfying family meals.

I first made this dish when craving takeout but wanting a homemade touch. The aroma of garlic and ginger sizzling in the pan, followed by the rich sauce coating the beef and broccoli, filled the kitchen with irresistible warmth. It’s a recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in no time.

What’s great about Beef and Broccoli is how versatile it is. You can use flank steak, sirloin, or even chicken as a substitute. For added crunch, toss in water chestnuts or sliced carrots, or customize the sauce with a hint of spice from chili flakes or sriracha.

Serve it over steamed rice, fluffy noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. It’s the perfect balance of wholesome vegetables, protein, and a luscious sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Quick, easy, and delicious, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Perfect for:

  • Quick weeknight dinners
  • Family meals
  • Meal prepping
  • Takeout-inspired cooking
  • Protein and veggie-packed meals

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli

Here’s why Beef and Broccoli will become your go-to meal:

  • Tender and Juicy Beef: Thanks to a quick marinade, the beef is incredibly tender and flavorful.
  • Rich and Savory Sauce: The sauce is made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, creating a bold, umami-packed flavor.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the broccoli, this dish is a wholesome meal.
  • Customizable: Adjust the seasonings, add other vegetables, or swap the protein for chicken or tofu to suit your preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Beef and Broccoli:

For the Beef and Marinade:

  • 1 pound (450g) beef (sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye), thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Sauce:

  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Stir-Fry:

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 medium onion, sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • ½ cup water or chicken broth

Optional Garnishes:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions

Ingredient Highlights

  • Beef: Choose a tender cut of beef like sirloin or flank steak. Thin slices help it cook quickly and evenly.
  • Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a crisp texture and vibrant green color, perfectly complementing the beef.
  • Oyster Sauce: A key ingredient in the sauce, oyster sauce provides a deep, savory flavor.
  • Sesame Oil: This adds a nutty aroma and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
  • Cornstarch: Used in the marinade and sauce, cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and tenderize the beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef and Broccoli

Follow these steps to prepare Beef and Broccoli:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Slice the Beef: Thinly slice the beef against the grain into bite-sized strips.
  2. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Add the beef, toss to coat, and let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Set aside.

cook the Broccoli:

  1. Blanch or Steam the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 1-2 minutes. Drain and set aside. Alternatively, steam the broccoli until just tender.

Beef:

  1. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Vegetables:

  1. Stir-Fry the Onion (Optional): Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet and sauté the onion until translucent.
  2. Add Broccoli and Sauce: Return the broccoli to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Add ½ cup of water or chicken broth, stirring to combine.

Combine and Serve:

  1. Combine Beef and Broccoli: Add the cooked beef back to the skillet and toss everything together, letting the sauce thicken and coat the ingredients evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  2. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli

Beef and Broccoli is versatile and pairs well with various sides:

  • Over Steamed Rice: Serve over white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • With Noodles: Toss with cooked noodles like lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty meal.
  • As Part of a Spread: Pair with other Chinese-inspired dishes like fried rice, egg rolls, or dumplings for a complete meal.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy on its own for a lighter, low-carb option.

Additional Tips for Beef and Broccoli

Here are some tips to ensure your Beef and Broccoli is perfect:

  • Use High Heat: Stir-frying over high heat ensures the beef and broccoli cook quickly without becoming soggy.
  • Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, as stir-frying is a fast process.
  • Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep the broccoli crisp-tender for the best texture and vibrant color.
  • Slice Beef Thinly: Thin slices cook faster and absorb more flavor from the marinade.
  • Thicken the Sauce as Needed: If the sauce isn’t thick enough, simmer it for another minute or two.

Recipe Variations for Beef and Broccoli

Try these variations to customize your Beef and Broccoli:

  1. Chicken and Broccoli: Substitute chicken breast or thighs for the beef.
  2. Shrimp and Broccoli: Use shrimp instead of beef for a seafood twist.
  3. Spicy Beef and Broccoli: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  4. Cashew Beef and Broccoli: Add toasted cashews for extra crunch.
  5. Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with tofu or mushrooms.
  6. Honey Garlic Beef and Broccoli: Add a tablespoon of honey for a sweeter flavor profile.
  7. Peanut Butter Sauce Variation: Mix a tablespoon of peanut butter into the sauce for a nutty twist.
  8. Extra Veggies: Add carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
  9. Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth to reduce the salt content.
  10. Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free.

Freezing and Storage for Beef and Broccoli

  • Freezing: Store cooled Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

Special Equipment for Beef and Broccoli

  • Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying, but a large skillet works well too.
  • Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the beef thinly.
  • Rice Cooker: If serving with rice, a rice cooker simplifies preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions for Beef and Broccoli

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and pat dry before using to prevent excess moisture.
  2. How do I keep the beef tender?
    Marinate the beef and cook it quickly over high heat. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
  3. Can I make it ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prep the ingredients in advance. Cook just before serving for the best texture.
  4. What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
    Hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a touch of sugar can be used as a substitute.
  5. Is this dish gluten-free?
    To make it gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Beef and Broccoli is a classic dish that brings the savory, comforting flavors of takeout right to your kitchen. Tender slices of beef and perfectly cooked broccoli are coated in a rich, flavorful sauce made with soy, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, creating a delicious balance that’s hard to resist.

Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a homemade alternative to takeout. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to adjust the seasonings, add extra vegetables, or substitute the beef with chicken or tofu to suit your preferences.

Beef and Broccoli is more than just a meal—it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that works equally well for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy the satisfying combination of bold flavors and fresh ingredients with every bite!

I’d love to see your take on Beef and Broccoli! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!