Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a classic Asian dish that combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The marriage of flavors and colors makes every bite satisfying and delicious!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Why Make This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the broccoli, it makes a wholesome meal in a flash. The vibrant colors of the ingredients create an appealing dish, while the combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce adds an irresistible umami taste that will entice everyone at the table.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef (sliced thinly, such as flank steak)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and beef broth. Mix well and set aside. This sauce will give your stir fry its delightful flavor and thickness.
### Step 2: Heating
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. This ensures that your beef gets a nice sear and locks in the juices.
### Step 3: Cooking the Beef
Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want each slice to get that beautiful brown color.
### Step 4: Sautéing the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and ginger; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, hinting at the delicious meal to come.
### Step 5: Adding Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. The broccoli adds a wonderful crunch to the dish.
### Step 6: Combining Ingredients
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli, stirring to coat everything evenly. This will bring all the flavors together.
### Step 7: Thickening the Sauce
Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
### Step 8: Seasoning and Serving
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot over cooked rice. This hearty dish is sure to satisfy your craving!
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Serve this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, which absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce. It also pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or brown rice for a healthier option. For an extra touch, garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions.
How to Store Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Choose the right cut of beef: Flank steak is a great option, but you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Make sure to slice against the grain for tenderness.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Ensure that your broccoli remains bright green and slightly crunchy for that fresh flavor.
- Prep ahead: You can slice the beef and chop the broccoli the night before to save time during meal prep.
- Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger greatly enhance the flavor compared to dried versions.
Delicious Variations
- Swap the beef: For a healthier version, substitute the beef with chicken or tofu.
- Add more veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Spicy kick: For those who love heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the stir fry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this dish vegan? Yes! Use tofu instead of beef and replace oyster sauce with a vegan alternative.
- What type of rice should I serve? Jasmine or basmati rice complements this dish perfectly, but brown rice is a healthier option.
- Can I prepare this in advance? The ingredients can be prepped ahead, but it’s best to cook the stir fry just before serving for the best texture.
- What can I use instead of soy sauce? If you need a gluten-free option, look for tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- How do I know when the beef is cooked? The beef should be browned and cooked through but still tender. Thin slices will cook quickly, so keep an eye on it!
Conclusion
This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a homemade meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a family-friendly dish on the table in just 20 minutes. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and treat yourself to a delightful taste of Asian cuisine that everyone will love!
