Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Dairy free dinner recipes just got a delicious upgrade with this easy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry. You can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen that’s both satisfying and quick. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and a fantastic addition to your collection of dairy free dinner recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beef: Flank steak or sirloin work best. You can substitute with chicken breast or firm tofu for a different protein.
- Broccoli: Fresh florets are ideal. Frozen broccoli can be used; just thaw it first.
- Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Ginger & Garlic: Fresh is best for flavor. Use pre-minced for convenience.
- Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the sauce. Arrowroot powder is a good alternative.
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (like avocado or vegetable oil)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup beef broth (dairy free)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, whisk, mixing bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Toss to coat evenly and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients. This step ensures tender and flavorful beef for your dairy free dinner recipes.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil until smooth. Set this aside, as you will add it to the stir-fry later.
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a 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 marinated beef to the hot skillet, spreading it out in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside with the broccoli.
5. Sauté Aromatics
Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn.
6. Combine and Thicken
Return the cooked beef and broccoli to the skillet with the aromatics. Give the prepared sauce a quick whisk again and pour it over everything in the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients. Serve immediately over rice or noodles for a satisfying dairy free dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving.
- Increase the spice level with a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the beef a day in advance to save time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this becomes a gluten-free dairy free dinner recipe.
What kind of beef is best for stir-fry?
Flank steak or sirloin are excellent choices because they are tender when thinly sliced against the grain.
How do I prevent the beef from being tough?
Slice the beef very thinly against the grain and do not overcook it. The cornstarch in the marinade also helps tenderize it.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before stir-frying to prevent excess water in your dish.
What can I serve with this stir-fry?
Serve this delicious dairy free dinner recipe over steamed white or brown rice, or with your favorite noodles.
