Introduction
Beef and broccoli stir fry is a beloved dish that brings a delightful combination of flavors and textures to the table. The savory, tender beef pairs perfectly with crunchy broccoli, all enveloped in a rich sauce. It's a quick meal that satisfies both hunger and taste.
This dish not only showcases the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables but also highlights the wholesome qualities of lean protein. It is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions when time is of the essence, yet you want to impress with a homemade meal.
Embracing the spirit of Asian cuisine, beef and broccoli stir fry is versatile, easily adaptable to suit your family's preferences. Whether served over rice or alongside noodles, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
Flank steak is an ideal cut for stir fries due to its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. Slicing it thinly against the grain ensures quick cooking and maintains tenderness. - 2 cups broccoli florets
Broccoli adds a hearty crunch and vibrant color to the dish. Its high nutritional value complements the protein in the beef, making the meal both delicious and healthful. - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
A neutral oil, like vegetable oil, is essential for high-heat cooking in stir fries. It allows the ingredients to cook quickly without burning, ensuring they retain their flavors. - 3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds a dazzling aroma and depth of flavor. Its pungent quality elevates the dish, creating a perfect balance with the beef and vegetables. - 1/4 cup soy sauce
Soy sauce is the backbone of the stir fry sauce, providing a salty, umami flavor. It enhances the overall taste, binding the ingredients together beautifully. - 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
Oyster sauce imparts a rich, slightly sweet flavor, complementing the savory notes of soy sauce. It enhances the sauce's thickness, adding a glossy finish. - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it a desirable texture that clings to the beef and broccoli without being overly runny. - 1/2 cup beef broth
Beef broth introduces additional depth and moisture to the sauce, making it more flavorful. It serves to balance the intensity of the sauces used. - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Sesame oil delivers a nutty, aromatic finish to the dish. A little goes a long way, enriching the overall flavor profile. - Salt and pepper to taste
Simple seasoning helps elevate the flavors in the dish. Adjusting salt and pepper allows you to tailor the seasoning to your personal preference.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the beef.
Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain. This technique helps tenderize the meat and allows it to absorb marinades better. If possible, freeze the meat for 15–20 minutes prior to slicing; it makes cutting much easier and helps achieve even, thin pieces.
Step 2: Marinate the beef.
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of cornstarch, and a teaspoon of sesame oil. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor of the meat but also aids in tenderization due to the soy sauce and cornstarch.
Step 3: Blanch the broccoli.
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Blanch them for 2 minutes, until vibrant and slightly tender, then promptly transfer to ice water to halt cooking. This method preserves their bright green color and crunchiness, making them a beautiful and delicious component of the dish.
Step 4: Heat the oil in a wok.
Place a wok or large skillet over high heat and add the vegetable oil. Ensuring the pan is hot before adding ingredients allows for quick cooking, which is key in stir frying. This prevents steaming and ensures a delightful browning on the beef.
Step 5: Stir-fry the beef.
Add the marinated beef to the hot oil and cook for about 2-3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through. Stir constantly to prevent sticking. This quick cooking method locks in the juices and browns the meat, contributing a delicious flavor that complements the crisp vegetables.
Step 6: Add garlic and broccoli.
Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and blanched broccoli. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes. Garlic infuses its flavor into the mix, while the broccoli finishes cooking, retaining its inviting crunch that balances the tenderness of the beef.
Step 7: Prepare the sauce.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, and any remaining cornstarch. This mixture will create the sauce that binds everything together. Ensuring it’s well-mixed before adding it to the wok guarantees an even thickness without lumps.
Step 8: Add the sauce to the stir fry.
Pour the prepared sauce over the stir-fried beef and broccoli. Stir well, allowing the sauce to coat the ingredients thoroughly as it heats and thickens, about 2-3 more minutes. This step is vital to enhance the flavors and create that luscious consistency that is characteristic of great stir fry.
Step 9: Adjust seasoning and serve.
Taste the stir fry and adjust with salt and pepper if needed before serving. Once the dish reaches your desired flavor, serve it immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoying it hot will maximize both flavor and texture, ensuring a satisfying meal.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
Selecting the right cut of beef can elevate the quality of your stir fry. Flank steak is a popular choice due to its rich flavor and tenderness when sliced thinly. You can also consider sirloin or skirt steak, which yield similar results. Regardless of the cut, be sure to slice against the grain for optimal tenderness.
Customizing Your Vegetables
While broccoli is a classic pairing, you can easily customize this stir fry with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can add variety and texture. Just keep in mind to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and maintain that desired crunch.
Balancing Flavors in the Sauce
The sauce is crucial in achieving the perfect flavor for your stir fry. Balancing salty, sweet, and umami elements gives depth and complexity. Feel free to experiment with ingredients like hoisin sauce or chili paste to tailor the dish to your personal taste, ensuring a unique spin on the classic recipe.
FAQs
What if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply stir in a splash of beef broth or water, gradually adding until you reach your desired consistency.
How can I adjust the flavor if it's too bland?
For a bland stir fry, consider adding more soy sauce, oyster sauce, or a sprinkle of salt to enhance the flavor. Taste as you adjust.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Frozen broccoli can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it to prevent excess moisture that may dilute the sauce.
Is there a alternative to cornstarch?
Arrowroot powder can serve as a substitute for cornstarch as it thickens similarly without altering flavors.
What if I want to double the recipe?
When doubling, ensure you have a large enough skillet or wok for even cooking. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, oils with high smoke points like canola or peanut oil are great substitutes, each adding their own unique flavor.
Conclusion
Beef and broccoli stir fry is not only a delicious choice for dinner but also an opportunity to unlock your culinary creativity. With just a few adjustments, you can personalize the dish to suit your preferences.
As you whip up this quick and flavorful meal, remember the key points are fresh ingredients, balance in flavors, and the art of fast cooking. Enjoy the process as much as the result!
Recipe Card
Savory and Simple Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the beef.
- Marinate the beef.
- Blanch the broccoli.
- Heat the oil in a wok.
- Stir-fry the beef.
- Add garlic and broccoli.
- Prepare the sauce.
- Add the sauce to the stir fry.
- Adjust seasoning and serve.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
