Why You’ll Love This Beef And Broccoli
This beef and broccoli recipe is a go-to option for anyone craving a quick, delicious meal that hits the spot every time. It’s straightforward to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want something nutritious on the table. The combination of tender meat and fresh vegetables creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also packed with flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.
Health-wise, beef and broccoli offers a great balance of lean protein from the beef to help build muscles and essential vitamins from the broccoli to boost your immune system. It’s a low-fat choice that fits into many diets, whether you’re watching your calories or just aiming for a healthier lifestyle. Plus, you can tweak it easily to match what you have on hand, like using different veggies or sauces for a fresh take each time.
What really sets this beef and broccoli apart is its versatility for all kinds of eaters, from families to those with specific dietary needs. You can make it gluten-free, vegan, or low-calorie without losing that savory taste. Whether you’re a student cooking solo or a parent feeding the crew, this recipe brings joy to the kitchen and makes mealtime fun and memorable.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This Beef And Broccoli
- 2. Essential Ingredients for Beef And Broccoli
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Beef And Broccoli: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Beef And Broccoli
- 5. Mastering Beef And Broccoli: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store Beef And Broccoli: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Beef And Broccoli
- 8. Beef And Broccoli
Essential Ingredients for Beef And Broccoli
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to making a standout beef and broccoli dish. Below is a complete, structured list of everything you’ll need, based on the precise measurements provided. This ensures your recipe turns out just right every time, with no surprises.
- 1 pound (approximately 450 grams) of flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons of oil, divided
- 1 pound (approximately 450 grams) of fresh broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 teaspoons of sesame seeds, for garnish
- 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons of grated garlic
- Half a cup (120 ml) of hot water
- 6 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar
- 1.5 tablespoons of corn starch
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
- 4 cups of additional broccoli florets, to add more crunch and nutrition
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced, for extra aromatic flavor
- 1 teaspoon of ginger, grated, to enhance the warmth
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, for umami depth; opt for tamari if going gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, to boost savory richness
- 1 tablespoon of corn starch, for thickening the sauce and giving it a glossy finish
These ingredients come together to create a balanced stir-fry that’s full of flavor. For special options, you can swap beef with marinated tofu for a vegan twist or use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free. This list covers everything needed to make beef and broccoli a hit in your kitchen.
How to Prepare the Perfect Beef And Broccoli: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting beef and broccoli just right starts with simple, clear steps that anyone can follow. This guide walks you through the process to ensure your meat stays tender and the flavors blend perfectly. Remember to use the ingredients we listed earlier for the best results similar to other family favorites.
- First, prepare all ingredients by thinly slicing the 1 pound of flank steak against the grain and cutting the 1 pound of fresh broccoli into florets. Wash everything thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Next, marinate the beef slices in a mixture that includes 6 tablespoons of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar, 1.5 tablespoons of corn starch, 2 teaspoons of grated garlic, and 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger; let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
- Then, heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of the divided oil. Quickly stir-fry the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until it’s vibrant green and slightly tender, then set it aside.
- After that, in the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and stir-fry the marinated beef on high heat for 3-5 minutes until it’s just cooked through, keeping it tender by not overcooking.
- Finally, return the broccoli to the pan along with the stir-fry sauce made from half a cup of hot water, the remaining marinade ingredients, and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes to coat evenly.
Once done, serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. If you’re looking for variations, check out similar stir-fry ideas to mix things up.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Beef And Broccoli
Making beef and broccoli work for your needs is easy with a few smart swaps. This section covers options to adjust the recipe while keeping that tasty beef and broccoli vibe. Whether you’re dealing with allergies or preferences, these changes help everyone enjoy the dish.
For protein, try sliced chicken breast instead of beef for a lighter option, or go with tofu for a vegan choice. If you’re into seafood, shrimp can replace the beef nicely. On the vegetable side, swap broccoli with snap peas or green beans if that’s what you have fresh.
As for sauces, use tamari in place of soy sauce to make it gluten-free, or coconut aminos if soy is off the table. You can also tweak seasonings like adding chili flakes for some heat. These adjustments keep beef and broccoli flexible and fun for all.
Mastering Beef And Broccoli: Advanced Tips and Variations
Taking your beef and broccoli to the next level means trying out some pro techniques and fun twists. For instance, to get that perfect tender texture, marinate the beef with a bit of baking soda for 15 minutes before rinsing and cooking. This little step makes a big difference in how juicy the meat turns out.
Flavor-wise, add hoisin sauce for a sweet note or rice vinegar for tang, and don’t forget toasted sesame oil for nuttiness. When it comes to serving, plate it on jasmine rice or in lettuce wraps and top with sesame seeds for a nice look. If you’re prepping ahead, slice the beef and blanch the broccoli in advance to save time later.
More Ideas for Experimentation
One way to vary this is by incorporating different veggies like bell peppers for added crunch. You can also experiment with the sauce by adjusting the brown sugar to make it sweeter or less sweet based on your taste.
How to Store Beef And Broccoli: Best Practices
Keeping your beef and broccoli fresh after cooking is simple with the right methods. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay good for up to 3-4 days. This helps lock in the flavors and prevents any waste.
For longer storage, freeze it in portions using freezer bags, and it can last about 2 months. When reheating, use a skillet with a bit of water to keep things moist and tasty. Meal prep is a breeze with this dish, as you can divide it into containers for quick meals during the week.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Beef And Broccoli
What ingredients do I need to make traditional Beef and Broccoli?
To make traditional Beef and Broccoli, you’ll need flank steak or sirloin, fresh broccoli florets, soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, beef broth or water, and vegetable oil. For extra flavor, you can also add a pinch of sugar and sesame oil. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and gives the beef a tender texture. These simple ingredients come together quickly to create a classic dish common in Chinese-American cuisine.
How do I cook beef for Beef and Broccoli so it stays tender?
To keep beef tender, slice it thinly across the grain and marinate it with soy sauce, a little cornstarch, and a touch of oil for at least 15 minutes. Stir-fry the beef quickly over high heat just until it browns, then remove it before overcooking. This quick cooking method prevents toughness and locks in juices. Adding the beef back in at the end with the sauce helps it absorb flavor while remaining tender.
Can I make Beef and Broccoli in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, Beef and Broccoli can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. To reheat, warm it gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent drying. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which can overcook the beef and make the broccoli mushy. Reheating slowly helps maintain texture and flavor.
What can I use to substitute soy sauce in Beef and Broccoli if I have allergies or dietary restrictions?
If you need a soy-free alternative, coconut aminos is a popular substitute that provides a similar salty and slightly sweet taste. Tamari sauce is another good option that is gluten-free but still soy-based. For low-sodium diets, dilute soy sauce with water or use a reduced-sodium version. Adjust the seasoning to taste since these alternatives vary in saltiness and flavor.
Is Beef and Broccoli a healthy meal option?
Beef and Broccoli can be a healthy meal when prepared with lean beef and minimal added sugars or oils. Broccoli provides fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, while beef contributes protein and iron. Using low-sodium soy sauce and steaming or lightly stir-frying the broccoli helps keep calories and sodium low. This dish balances protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for many diets.
Beef And Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-friendly (use gluten-free soy sauce if needed)
Description
🥩 This Beef and Broccoli recipe features tender flank steak and fresh broccoli cooked quickly in a savory, flavorful sauce.
🌿 It’s a balanced, satisfying dish perfect for a wholesome dinner with a delicious Asian-inspired flair.
Ingredients
– 1 pound (approximately 450 grams) flank steak, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons oil, divided
– 1 pound (approximately 450 grams) fresh broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 teaspoons sesame seeds for garnish
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons grated garlic
– Half a cup (120 ml) hot water
– 6 tablespoons soy sauce
– 3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
– 1.5 tablespoons corn starch
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cups additional broccoli florets to add more crunch and nutrition
– 2 cloves garlic, minced, for extra aromatic flavor
– 1 teaspoon ginger, grated, to enhance the warmth
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce for umami depth; opt for tamari if going gluten-free
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce to boost savory richness
– 1 tablespoon corn starch for thickening the sauce and giving it a glossy finish
Instructions
1-First, prepare all ingredients by thinly slicing the 1 pound of flank steak against the grain and cutting the 1 pound of fresh broccoli into florets. Wash everything thoroughly to remove any dirt.
2-Next, marinate the beef slices in a mixture that includes 6 tablespoons of soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar, 1.5 tablespoons of corn starch, 2 teaspoons of grated garlic, and 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger; let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
3-Then, heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of the divided oil. Quickly stir-fry the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until it’s vibrant green and slightly tender, then set it aside.
4-After that, in the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and stir-fry the marinated beef on high heat for 3-5 minutes until it’s just cooked through, keeping it tender by not overcooking.
5-Finally, return the broccoli to the pan along with the stir-fry sauce made from half a cup of hot water, the remaining marinade ingredients, and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes to coat evenly.
Notes
🥢 Use thinly sliced flank steak for quick cooking and tender results.
🥦 Avoid overcooking broccoli to maintain its crisp texture and bright color.
🍳 Whisk the sauce ingredients well to prevent lumps and ensure even thickening.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Beef and Broccoli, Savory Sauce, Tender Meat, Stir-fry