Beef and Broccoli

PIn it

Craving a delicious and satisfying beef dinner recipe? This Beef and Broccoli stir-fry brings the restaurant experience right into your kitchen. You’ll love how quickly this flavorful meal comes together, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a special weekend treat.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions:

• Flank Steak: You can also use sirloin, skirt steak, or even thinly sliced chuck roast for this beef dinner recipe.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh is best, but frozen florets work too (thaw first).
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium if you prefer. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
• Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the sauce and tenderizing the beef. Arrowroot powder is a good substitute.

Ingredients:

For the Beef & Marinade:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Stir-fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or canola oil)
• 4 cups broccoli florets

How Much Time Will You Need?

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350
• Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, whisk, cutting board, sharp knife.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef

In a medium bowl, combine your thinly sliced flank steak with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Toss everything together until the beef is well coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce and broccoli.

2. Prepare the Sauce

Whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Set this flavorful sauce aside. This will be the heart of your amazing beef dinner recipe.

3. Cook the Broccoli

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until they are tender-crisp and bright green. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Cook the Beef

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Increase the heat to high. Once the oil is shimmering, add your marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

5. Combine and Thicken

Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the beef. Give your prepared sauce another quick whisk to ensure the cornstarch is dissolved, then pour it over the beef and broccoli. Stir constantly as the sauce comes to a boil and thickens, which should take about 1-2 minutes.

6. Serve Your Beef Dinner

Remove your Beef and Broccoli from the heat. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying beef dinner recipe. Enjoy your homemade creation!

Variation Ideas:

• Add sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snow peas for extra vegetables.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions before serving.
• Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce.

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftover Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Can you make Beef and Broccoli ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it’s best to cook and serve this beef dinner recipe fresh for the best texture and flavor.

What is the best way to slice flank steak for stir-fry?

Always slice flank steak against the grain into thin pieces. This helps ensure tender beef in your stir-fry.

Why is your beef tough?

Overcooking your beef is a common reason for toughness. Cook it quickly over high heat until just done.

Can you use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw frozen broccoli completely and pat it dry before stir-frying to prevent excess water in your dish.

How do you make the sauce thicker?

The cornstarch in the sauce recipe will naturally thicken it as it heats. Ensure you whisk it well before adding to the pan.

What side dishes pair well with this beef dinner recipe?

Steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, or lo mein noodles are excellent choices to serve with Beef and Broccoli.