Easy Beef and Broccoli

Easy Beef and Broccoli

4.7 from 3 votes
Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 30 mins
Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 2 Calories: 620 Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

This Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste, and it's perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

For the marinade

For the sauce

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch. Add the thinly sliced flank steak to the marinade and let it sit for at least 20-30 minutes. You can marinate it longer for even better flavor.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 2 minutes, or until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Drain the broccoli and set it aside.

  3. In another bowl, combine the sauce ingredients. Mix until the sugar has dissolved. 

  4. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the pan evenly. Add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

  5. Add the marinated beef slices to the hot pan, spreading them out in a single layer. Allow them to sear for about 1-2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they're browned and cooked through.

  6. Add the blanched broccoli. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir-fry everything together for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coated the beef and broccoli evenly.

  7. Serve your Beef and Broccoli over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.

Tips

  • For tender beef, slice it thinly against the grain. This helps break down the muscle fibers, making it more tender when cooked.
  • Marinating the beef not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize it. Allow it to marinate for at least 20-30 minutes, or longer if possible.
  • Parboiling the broccoli briefly in boiling water before stir-frying helps retain its vibrant green color and ensures it's tender but still crisp in the final dish. Make sure to drain and set it aside before stir-frying.
  • Stir-frying happens quickly, so it's essential to have all your ingredients measured, chopped, and ready to go before you start cooking. This includes garlic, ginger, sauces, and any other veggies you plan to add.
  • tir-frying should be done over high heat to quickly sear the beef and vegetables, giving them that characteristic wok hei (breath of the wok) flavor.
  • Make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding the oil. A hot pan helps prevent sticking and allows for a quick sear.
  • Garnish your Beef and Broccoli with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or even some red pepper flakes for extra flavor and presentation.
  • Stir-fry dishes are best enjoyed right after cooking to maintain their textures and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I use a different cut of beef for Beef and Broccoli?

While flank steak is commonly used, you can also use other cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or even thinly sliced chuck steak. The key is to slice it thinly against the grain for tenderness.

Can I make Beef and Broccoli without marinating the beef?

Marinating the beef is recommended for flavor and tenderness. However, if you're short on time, you can skip the marinating step, but the flavor may not be as intense.

Is Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?

The dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce and ensuring that the oyster sauce used is gluten-free. Also, check the labels of any other sauces you use to confirm they are gluten-free.

How do I store leftover Beef and Broccoli?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I add other vegetables to Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, you can customize your stir-fry by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of cooking times, adding the quicker-cooking veggies earlier.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version using tofu or seitan instead of beef. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth.

How do I ensure my Beef and Broccoli is not too saucy or dry?

Adjust the amount of sauce according to your preference. If you prefer a saucier dish, use more sauce; if you like it drier, use less sauce.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag #themoderncookbook if you made this recipe. Follow @moderncookbook on Instagram for more recipes.

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