Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Beef and Broccoli Recipe is a quick, flavorful dish that can be made in just 30 minutes. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions, bringing together tender beef, fresh broccoli, and an irresistible stir fry sauce. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Beef and Broccoli Recipe takes only 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: With less cleanup required, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh broccoli and lean beef, this dish offers a healthy balance of protein and vegetables.
- Flavorful Sauce: The savory stir fry sauce elevates the dish, providing a delightful mix of sweet and salty flavors.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it over rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option. Perfect for any dietary preference!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing beef and broccoli without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertop while allowing you to slice meat and vegetables safely.
- Sharp knife: Makes slicing the flank steak easy and helps achieve thin strips for better texture in the dish.
Ingredients
Beef and Broccoli Recipe is loaded with simple yet delicious ingredients that come together in harmony.
For the Beef
- 1 lb flank steak (very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips)
For the Broccoli
- 1 lb fresh broccoli (cut into 6 cups of florets)
For the Sauce
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil), divided
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 tsp garlic (grated from 3 cloves)
- 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce (or GF Tamari)
- 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
Optional Garnish
- 2 tsp sesame seeds
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start cooking white rice first so it’s ready when the stir fry is done. Cover and freeze steak for 30 minutes to make slicing easier. Afterward, thinly slice against the grain.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine all stir fry sauce ingredients:
1. Add low sodium soy sauce.
2. Mix in brown sugar until dissolved.
3. Stir in corn starch, ginger, garlic, black pepper, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Place a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Add broccoli florets to the skillet.
3. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. If desired, add 2 tablespoons of water before covering to steam cook.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Increase heat to high:
1. Add another tablespoon of oil.
2. Place beef strips in a single layer to avoid steaming.
3. Sauté for about 2 minutes per side or until cooked through; check doneness by pulling out a piece.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Reduce heat to medium-low:
1. Pour in the prepared sauce over beef.
2. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
3. Add cooked broccoli back into the skillet; toss everything to combine.
4. If needed, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of water to thin out the sauce.
Serve your Beef and Broccoli warm over fluffy white rice! Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Beef and Broccoli is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Over Steamed Rice
- Serve the beef and broccoli stir fry over a bed of fluffy steamed white rice for a classic combination that absorbs the delicious sauce.
With Noodles
- Toss the beef and broccoli with cooked noodles such as lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty twist on this dish.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Spoon the stir fry into large lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb version. Add some chopped peanuts for crunch!
Topped with Sesame Seeds
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture. It adds a delightful nutty taste.
With Additional Vegetables
- Enhance your dish by adding snow peas, bell peppers, or carrots during cooking for more color and nutrients.
As Meal Prep
- Pack servings into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It reheats well in the microwave!
How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli Recipe
To achieve the best beef and broccoli, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality beef will make your stir fry taste significantly better.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cut flank steak against the grain to ensure tender slices that are easy to chew.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming; it allows the beef to sear properly.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together.
- Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to add chili sauce or hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile!
Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement the rich flavors of beef and broccoli.
- Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of vegetables and rice stir-fried with soy sauce makes an excellent accompaniment.
- Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat add crunch to your meal.
- Steamed Dumplings: These soft pillows filled with meat or vegetables are perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic provide a crunchy, aromatic side.
- Mango Salad: A refreshing salad with mango, cucumber, and lime dressing balances the savory flavors of beef.
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers mixed with sesame oil create a light side that enhances the main dish’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Beef and Broccoli Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the beef can lead to less flavorful meat. Always allow the beef to soak in your sauce for at least 30 minutes for the best results.
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Aim for a bright green color and crisp texture by sautéing it just until tender.
- Using High-Sodium Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce can be too salty. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or gluten-free tamari to control saltiness in your Beef and Broccoli Recipe.
- Not Prepping Ingredients First: Cooking requires quick actions. Prepare all ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth stir-fry process.
- Cooking at Low Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat for proper caramelization. Don’t be afraid to crank up the heat when cooking beef for that perfect sear.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-4 days for best flavor and texture.
Freezing Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot; add a splash of water if needed.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or oil to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding this Beef and Broccoli Recipe.
What is the best cut of beef for Beef and Broccoli Recipe?
Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness and flavor. It cooks quickly and remains juicy when cooked properly.
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but fresh broccoli provides better texture and flavor. If using frozen, reduce cooking time accordingly.
How do I make my Beef and Broccoli Recipe gluten-free?
Substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as needed.
What sides pair well with Beef and Broccoli Recipe?
Serve this dish over steamed white rice or brown rice. You can also pair it with noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Broccoli Recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas according to your preference. Enjoy this delicious meal any night of the week!
Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves four
Description
Looking for a quick weeknight dinner that packs a flavorful punch? This Beef and Broccoli recipe is your answer! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this one-pan meal featuring tender flank steak, vibrant broccoli, and a savory stir-fry sauce that brings everything together. Perfectly served over fluffy white rice or noodles, this dish is not only easy to make but also nutritious—making it a family favorite for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in this classic Asian-inspired recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced)
- 1 lb fresh broccoli (cut into florets)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 tsp garlic (grated)
- 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1.5 Tbsp corn starch
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare white rice according to package instructions.
- Freeze flank steak for 30 minutes, then thinly slice against the grain.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, corn starch, ginger, garlic, black pepper, and sesame oil to create the sauce.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté broccoli for 4-5 minutes until bright green.
- Increase heat to high, add remaining oil, and sauté beef strips for about 2 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and pour the sauce over the beef; simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Stir in broccoli and combine well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (227g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
