Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a classic Chinese-American dish that combines tender slices of beef and fresh broccoli in a savory, umami-packed sauce. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy meal that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over jasmine rice or noodles for a complete, balanced meal.
What Is Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a popular stir-fried dish featuring thinly sliced beef and fresh broccoli florets cooked in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings. The beef is tender, and the broccoli is cooked until crisp-tender, giving this dish a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need:
- 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious stir-fry that’s full of flavor.
Health Benefits of Beef and Broccoli
Beef is a great source of protein and iron, essential for building and maintaining muscle and healthy blood cells. Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, which help support overall health. Together, this combination makes for a nutritious, well-balanced meal that’s satisfying and flavorful.
For another quick and nutritious dish, try this Chicken Veggie Stir-Fry for a healthy twist on a stir-fry favorite.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Here’s how to make this easy and delicious stir-fry:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and stir-fry the broccoli for 3-4 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour in the sauce and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring to coat everything evenly. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot over rice or noodles.
For a similar flavor-packed meal, check out this Garlic Butter Shrimp Linguine for a seafood twist.
Variations of Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Here are some ways to customize your stir-fry:
- Add vegetables: Toss in sliced bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
- Use different protein: Swap the beef for chicken, tofu, or shrimp to suit your preferences.
- Make it gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Best Occasions to Serve Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This dish is perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners: Quick and easy to make, this stir-fry is great for busy evenings.
- Meal prepping: Double the recipe and store the leftovers in the fridge for easy, ready-to-eat meals.
- Family dinners: With its balanced flavors and ingredients, this dish is sure to please the whole family.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some tips to ensure your Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry turns out perfectly:
- Overcooking the beef: Be careful not to overcook the beef. Thinly sliced beef cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid a tough texture.
- Undercooking the broccoli: Make sure the broccoli is tender but still crisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Not stirring the sauce: Whisk the sauce ingredients well before adding it to the skillet to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the stir-fry ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry before adding it to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.
3. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the skillet during the final step.
Conclusion
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a delicious, healthy, and quick meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. The tender beef, crisp broccoli, and flavorful sauce come together to create a dish that’s full of savory, umami flavors. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete, balanced meal that your whole family will love.
For more quick and flavorful stir-fry ideas, try this Spicy Sausage Pasta for a bold, comforting dish.