Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Introduction

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a classic stir-fry dish that combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, bringing the flavors of Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Beef: 1 pound of flank steak, thinly sliced
Broccoli: 2 cups, cut into florets
Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons (for stir-frying)
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Water: 1/4 cup (for steaming)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, approximately 1/8 inch thick. This helps to ensure tenderness. If desired, you can freeze the beef for about 30 minutes to make slicing easier.

Marinate the Beef

In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil. Mix well to ensure all the beef strips are evenly coated. Let the beef marinate for about 15 to 30 minutes for optimal flavor.

Prepare the Broccoli

While the beef is marinating, wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. You can also peel and slice the stalks if desired. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 2 minutes until it turns bright green, then immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Set the sauce aside.

Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil, and once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes without stirring to allow it to sear, then stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the beef is nearly cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Stir-Fry the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary. Add the blanched broccoli and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp. If you want more flavor, you can add minced garlic or ginger at this stage for an aromatic touch.

Add Beef and Sauce

Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli, and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve the beef and broccoli hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Choosing the Right Beef

Flank steak or sirloin are good options for this recipe. Be sure to slice against the grain for tenderness.

Veggie Options

Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help steam the dish.

Gluten-Free Variations

Using gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce can make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Cook techniques

Stir-frying

Stir-frying is a fast cooking method that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over high heat. It helps retain the nutrients and flavors of the ingredients.

Marinating

Marinating adds flavor and tenderness to the meat. A simple marinade can enhance the dish by infusing it with aromatics and seasonings.

Blanching

Blanching involves briefly boiling vegetables, such as broccoli, and then quickly cooling them in ice water. This technique maintains the vibrant color and crisp texture of the vegetables.

Thickening Sauce

Using cornstarch to thicken sauces adds a glossy finish and enhances the overall texture. It is important to mix the cornstarch with water before adding it to the sauce to avoid clumping.

Resting Meat

Allowing cooked meat to rest before slicing helps retain its juices, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish. It’s essential to let it sit for a few minutes after cooking.

FAQ

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots for a different flavor and texture.

What type of beef is best for this dish?

Tender cuts of beef, such as flank steak or sirloin, work well for stir-frying due to their quick cooking time and tenderness.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Chinese beef and broccoli is great for meal prep. You can store it in the refrigerator for a few days and reheat it easily.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To adjust the spice level, you can add more or less garlic, or include red pepper flakes or chili paste, depending on your taste preference.

Conclusion

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also boasts a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce combine to create a delicious dish that is satisfying and perfect for any weeknight meal. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete dining experience, and enjoy the wholesome taste of homemade Chinese cuisine.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Combine your choice of beef with a medley of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots for a vibrant and nutritious stir-fry.

Chicken and Broccoli

Substitute beef with chicken for a lighter option while maintaining the delicious flavor of the broccoli and sauce.

Shrimp Stir-Fry with Broccoli

Use shrimp instead of beef for a seafood twist on this classic dish, pairing beautifully with the same savory sauce and broccoli.

Beef with Asparagus

Replace broccoli with asparagus for a different yet equally tasty combination that highlights the freshness of the vegetables.

Vegetable Fried Rice

Serve this beef and broccoli dish alongside vegetable fried rice to create a hearty and satisfying meal that is full of flavor.

Garlic Noodles

Pair your beef and broccoli with garlic-infused noodles for an extra layer of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Broccoli Salad

Create a fresh broccoli salad with sesame dressing as a light side to balance the richness of the beef dish.

Egg Rolls

Serve crispy egg rolls as an appetizer to kick off a delicious Chinese-inspired meal experience.