Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a classic dish that’s beloved for its simplicity, savory flavors, and the delightful contrast between tender beef and crunchy broccoli. This dish is a staple in many Asian cuisines, particularly Chinese-American, and is known for its quick cooking time and delicious sauce that coats the beef and broccoli perfectly. Here’s a straightforward recipe that brings this classic dish to your table.
Ingredients
FOR THE BEEF MARINADE:
1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
FOR THE SAUCE:
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup beef broth or water
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
FOR THE STIR-FRY:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
4 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Optional: Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. MARINATE THE BEEF
In a mixing bowl, combine the beef slices with the soy sauce, cornstarch, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to coat all the pieces evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to an hour in the refrigerator for more flavor.
2. PREPARE THE SAUCE
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil until well combined. Set aside.
3. BLANCH THE BROCCOLI
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for about 2 minutes, or until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
4. COOK 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, allowing space between pieces to ensure they sear rather than steam. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until the beef is browned but still slightly pink in the center. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
5. STIR-FRY THE BROCCOLI
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the blanched broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring frequently for about 2 minutes.
6. COMBINE AND FINISH
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Stir the sauce once more to recombine any settled cornstarch, then pour it over the beef and broccoli. Cook, constantly stirring, for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the ingredients nicely.
7. SERVE
Serve the beef and broccoli stir-fry immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Slicing the Beef: Ensure the beef is sliced thinly against the grain for the most tender texture.
Marinating: The marinade not only flavors the beef but also tenderizes it, thanks to the cornstarch and soy sauce.
High Heat: Stir-frying is a quick process that requires high heat to sear the beef and veggies while keeping them tender and crisp.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and quality beef for the best taste and texture.
Adjusting the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sauce ingredients to taste. Some like it sweeter, while others prefer a more savory or umami flavor.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, a dish that’s sure to become a favorite for its ease of preparation and depth of flavor.