Let’s talk comfort food. Remember those nights when takeout was the only option, and you’d crave something satisfying but not satisfying? Did you want to wait forever? What is the best beef broccoli recipe? What’s your favorite Chinese takeout dish? What’s going to go into it? I’ve tweaked and perfecte dipped this recipe over years, and trust me, it’s a total weeknight winner. Is ordering online a lot easier than ordering in.? What’s a staple in my family?
What is Beef Broccoli?
Beef Broccoli is essentially a stir-fry dish. A glorious blend of tender beef and crisp-tender vegetables. What are some of the best broccoli florets coated in a savory, slightly sweet, and extremely flavorful sauce? Think of it as a symphony of textures and tastes, all working together in perfect harmony. Is Chinese-American cuisine a popular dish? The name is pretty self-explanatory, but the real magic lies in the execution – getting the beef. How do I cook broccoli and cauliflower in a pan? What is the sauce that keeps you coming back for more? I remember the first time I tried making it – it was a total disaster! The beef was tough, the broccoli was mushy, and the sauce was…well, let’s just say it didn’t. Is this the best thing you’ve ever tasted? I persevered, and now, it’s one of my go-to comfort meals.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this **Beef Broccoli Recipe** is that it’s incredibly flavorful. What is so good about soy sauce, ginger, garlic and brown sugar? What are some of the best savory and sweet desserts you have ever had? Is this recipe addictive? Is it really that easy to make? Even on the busiest weeknights, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. What is cost-efficiency? You’re using relatively inexpensive ingredients, especially compared to ordering takeout. Plus, you have complete control over the quality of those ingredients, which is always a win in my book. What makes broccoli so versatile? Can you serve it over rice, noodles, quinoa – whatever your heart desires. I’ve even thrown it into lettuce wraps for a lighter meal. If you’re a fan of stir-fries (like me) then why don’t you try it? What is your favorite recipe for kung pao chicken? Is it easy to make a sandwich that is packed with flavor? What are some of the best dishes to eat that satisfy both taste and convenience? My family asks for this **Beef Broccoli Recipe** at least twice a month!
How do I make Beef Broccoli?
Quick Overview
How do I make Beef Broccoli? How do I start prepping my ingredients – slicing the beef, chopping the broccoli, and preparing the veggies? How do you mix the sauce? Then, you’ll sear the beef to perfection, followed by stir-frying the broccoli until it’s tender. When you pour in the sauce, let everything simmer together. What is the best way to prepare a Stir Fry before cooking? Even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this!
Ingredients
For the Beef:
* 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain. I always go for flank steak because it’s relatively inexpensive and becomes wonderfully tender when cooked. If you can’t find flank steak, sirloin is a good substitute.
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Use low-sodium to control the saltiness.
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch. This helps to tenderize the beef and thicken the sauce.
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil. This adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger. Fresh ginger is great too, if you have it!
For the Broccoli: For
* 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets. Fresh broccoli is definitely the way to go here. Frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, but it tends to get mushy.
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. For stir-frying.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly chopped garlic is essential for that authentic flavor!
For the Sauce:
* 1/2 cup beef broth. Low-sodium is best.
* 1/4 cup soy sauce. Again, low-sodium!
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness.
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch. To thicken the sauce.
* 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional). Is there a flavor you can omit if you don’t have it on hand?
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil. For that extra nutty flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) for a little kick!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon shallots and salt. Set aside. What are the ingredients for cornstarch, sesame oil, and ground ginger? Mix well to coat the beef evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or even longer if you have the time. This allows the flavors to penetrate the beef and makes it extra tender. I usually prep the beef while I’m chopping the broccoli. Is this true?
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch and oyster sauce. Set aside. What is the best combination of sesame oil and red pepper flakes? Make sure there are no lumps of cornstarch. Set aside. How do you prepare a stir-fry?
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid sticking to the meat). Is overcrowding What is the best way to cook beef? Remove the beef from the pan and set aside. Don’t overcook it, or it will become tough. I always aim for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside slightly tender.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same skillet or wok. Cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. How do you burn garlic? What is the best way to cook broccoli florets? Is broccoli cooked through? I like to add a splash of water to the pan and cover it for about 30 seconds to help steam the vegetables.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the sauce over the broccoli and bring to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for another minute or two, until everything is heated through and the sauce is glossy.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
What is the best beef broccoli recipe? What are some good ways to serve this dish fresh and hot?
What should I serve it with?
What is a good beef broccoli recipe? What areWhat is a classic Asian meal?Serve over steamed white rice or brown rice. The rice soaks up all the sauce! Add a side of spring rolls or Egg Rolls to your takeout menu.What is a low-carb option?Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. What are some good ways to enjoy the flavors of beef and broccoli without the carbs? I sometimes add a sprinkle of toasted almonds for some crunch.For a Family-Friendly Dinner:Serve it with some simple noodles or rice noodles. My kids love it when I make a big pot of noodles and let them mix in the beef and broccoli. What are some good side dishes to serve with steamed dumplings?What is a quick lunch?Is it healthy to eat rice or quinoa for lunch? What is a good way to use up leftovers and avoid the temptation of ordering takeout?
How do I make Beef Broccoli?
What are some of the best ways to cook beef broccoli over the years?What is the best be Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain. This is crucial for tenderness. If you’re having trouble slicing it thinly, pop it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to handle.
Broccoli Tips: Don’t overcook the broccoli! You want it to be crisp-tender, not mushy. I find that stir-frying it for 5-7 minutes is the perfect amount of time. If you prefer your broccoli more tender, you can steam it for a few minutes before stir-frying it.
Sauce Consistency: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the beef and broccoli, but not so thick that it becomes gloopy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more beef broth. If it’s too thin, add a little more cornstarch. Make sure to whisk the cornstarch with a little cold water before adding it to the sauce to prevent lumps.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit them altogether. If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have flank steak, you can use sirloin or even chicken. If you don’t have broccoli, you can use other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless! I’ve even used tofu for a vegetarian version, and it was surprisingly delicious!
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a little extra tang. This will brighten up the flavors and add a bit of complexity.
These are just a few of the tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving the **Beef Broccoli Recipe** at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the beef and broccoli from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the **Beef Broccoli Recipe** to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat the leftovers, you can use the microwave, stovetop, or oven. In the microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. On the stovetop, heat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. In the oven, heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
Glaze Timing Advice: The sauce might thicken up a bit during storage. If that happens, add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating to thin it out. I always make sure to taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to **Beef Broccoli Recipe** that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for delicious and easy takeout-style food. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, and I promise, once you make it, it’ll become a regular in your rotation. If you loved this, you should definitely check out my other stir-fry recipes, like my Sesame Chicken or Shrimp Stir Fry. They’re all super easy to make and packed with flavor. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. Happy cooking!
Beef Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef sirloin steak
- 1 head Broccoli cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Slice beef into thin strips.
- Stir-fry beef until browned.
- Add broccoli and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and cornstarch. Add to the beef and broccoli and cook until the sauce thickens.
