Looking for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner? This beef and broccoli recipe is your go-to solution. Packed with protein, vibrant vegetables, and a flavorful stir-fry sauce, this dish is perfect for those busy back-to-school evenings or anytime you need a delicious, easy-to-make meal. Here’s how to make the perfect beef and broccoli stir-fry.
Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
- 1 lb flank steak (or another tender beef cut such as top sirloin or tri-tip)
- 3 cloves garlic, grated (about 2 tsp minced)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 6 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp light brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb broccoli crowns, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 6 cups)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1-2 tbsp water (optional, for steaming broccoli)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Steamed white rice, for serving
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
To start your beef and broccoli recipe, freeze the flank steak for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to slice thinly against the grain, which results in a more tender stir-fry. You can substitute flank steak with other cuts such as top sirloin, top round, or tri-tip, but flank steak is lean, tender, and perfect for this dish.
Step 2: Make the Stir-Fry Sauce
To create the flavor-packed stir-fry sauce, combine the grated garlic and ginger in a small mixing bowl. Add the hot water to dissolve the sugar, followed by soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves. Set the sauce aside, and it is ready to add to the beef later.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli pieces and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. If you like your broccoli more tender, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of water to help steam it while cooking. Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
In the same skillet, add the second tablespoon of oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef in a single layer. Cook the beef for about 2 minutes per side, just until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove a piece of beef to test for doneness. Once the beef is cooked, reduce the heat to low.
Step 5: Combine the Beef and Broccoli
Stir the prepared sauce and pour it over the beef in the pan. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Finally, return the broccoli to the pan, stirring everything to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to thin it out.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your beef and broccoli stir-fry over a bed of steamed white rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and crunch. This beef and broccoli recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein and veggies, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or lunch prep.
Tips for the Best Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
- Slicing the beef: Thin slices of beef make the dish more tender and flavorful. Always slice against the grain for the best texture.
- Customize your vegetables: While broccoli is the star of this recipe, you can mix in other veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for extra color and nutrition.
- Make-ahead option: This dish reheats well, so it’s perfect for meal prep or school/work lunches. Store the stir-fry in a thermos or heat-safe Tupperware for easy transport.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This beef and broccoli recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory, sweet, and umami flavors. The tender beef combined with the crisp-tender broccoli and rich stir-fry sauce makes for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the beef and nutrients from the broccoli, making it both a delicious and nutritious option for busy families.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or preparing it as a make-ahead lunch, this beef and broccoli stir-fry is sure to be a hit. With a flavorful sauce, tender beef, and vibrant broccoli, it’s a dish everyone will love. Try it tonight and see why this recipe should be on your go-to list for busy nights!
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