Beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic dish that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Follow these steps to make the perfect beef and broccoli stir-fry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef and Broccoli:
- Beef: 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced.
- Broccoli: 2 cups of fresh florets.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated.
- Oil: 2 tablespoons of vegetable or sesame oil.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup.
- Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons.
- Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Beef Stock: 1/4 cup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
- Thinly slice the beef against the grain for tenderness.
- Marinate the beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch for 15 minutes. This step ensures the beef stays juicy and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
- Wash and cut broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to ice water to keep it crisp and vibrant.
3. Mix the Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and beef stock.
- Stir well and set aside.
4. Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Remove the beef and set it aside.
5. Sauté Garlic and Ginger
- Add the remaining oil to the pan.
- Stir-fry minced garlic and grated ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add Broccoli and Sauce
- Return the broccoli to the skillet.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
7. Combine Beef and Broccoli
- Add the cooked beef back to the skillet.
- Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Tips for Success
- Use High Heat: High heat ensures the beef sears quickly and stays tender.
- Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Blanching keeps the broccoli crisp and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Customize the Sauce: Add a dash of chili flakes for spice or extra soy sauce for a saltier flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your beef and broccoli stir-fry over:
- Steamed white or brown rice.
- Noodles for a heartier meal.
- A bed of mixed greens for a low-carb option.
Final Thoughts
Beef and broccoli stir-fry is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s a meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home!
