Introduction
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines tender pieces of beef with crisp, flavorful broccoli. This classic Chinese dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and vitamins, making it a popular choice for family meals. With its savory sauce and vibrant colors, this stir-fry is sure to please both the eye and the palate.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Beef: 1 pound of flank steak, thinly sliced
Broccoli: 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
Cornstarch: 2 teaspoons
Water: 2 tablespoons
Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Salt and Pepper: to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. You can use flank steak or sirloin for this recipe. Rinse the broccoli florets under cold water and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic and ginger for added flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a dash of sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, and a bit of sugar. Set aside. This will be the stir-fry sauce that adds flavor to the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Broccoli
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Remove the broccoli and set it aside.
Step 5: Cook the Beef
In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary, then add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes without stirring to sear the beef. Once browned, stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
Step 6: Add Aromatics
Add minced garlic and ginger to the cooked beef, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 7: Combine and Stir-Fry
Return the broccoli to the wok. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef and broccoli evenly.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from heat and transfer the beef and broccoli stir-fry to a serving platter. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
Tip 1: Slicing the Beef
For the best texture, make sure you slice the beef thinly against the grain. This helps to keep it tender.
Tip 2: Marinating Time
While 15 minutes is sufficient, marinating the beef for up to an hour in the refrigerator can enhance the flavors even more.
Tip 3: Broccoli Cooking Time
Be cautious when cooking broccoli; it should be bright and tender but not mushy.
Tip 4: Serving Suggestions
Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas to the stir-fry for added color and flavor.
Tip 5: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Slicing Beef
Properly slicing the beef against the grain helps to ensure tenderness. Use a sharp knife to achieve thin, even strips for better cooking and texture.
Stir-Frying
Stir-frying is a high-heat cooking method that involves quickly cooking ingredients in a small amount of oil. It’s essential to keep ingredients moving in the pan for even cooking and to prevent burning.
Blanching Broccoli
Blanching broccoli involves briefly boiling it before adding it to the stir-fry. This technique preserves the vibrant color and ensures the broccoli is tender-crisp.
Aromatics
Add aromatics like garlic and ginger early in the cooking process to build foundational flavor. Ensure they are chopped finely to release their flavors effectively.
Sauce Preparation
Creating a balanced sauce with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch provides flavor and helps thicken the dish. Mix these ingredients in a bowl before adding to the stir-fry.
High Heat Cooking
Using high heat ensures a quick sear on the beef and retains the vegetables’ crispness. A well-heated wok or pan is crucial for successful stir-frying.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in beef and broccoli stir-fry?
Yes, you can incorporate a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
How do I make the beef more tender?
Marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of oil for about 30 minutes helps to enhance tenderness before cooking.
Is it necessary to use a wok for stir-frying?
While a wok is traditionally used for stir-frying due to its shape and heat distribution, a large, heavy skillet will also work well for this technique.
How long should I cook the broccoli?
Broccoli should be stirred in the pan for about 2-3 minutes if blanched beforehand. Ensure it is bright green and tender-crisp for the best texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Beef and broccoli stir-fry is best enjoyed fresh; however, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and stir-fry just before serving for maximum flavor.
Conclusion
The Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that perfectly combines tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and a savory sauce. Its quick preparation makes it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal, while its delicious flavor profile makes it suitable for any occasion. By mastering this recipe, you can easily bring a taste of Asian cuisine into your home.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Snow Peas Stir-Fry
Experience a lighter stir-fry with tender chicken and crisp snow peas, complemented by a soy-ginger sauce.
Beef with Bell Peppers
Swap broccoli for vibrant bell peppers in a similar stir-fry style that adds a sweet crunch to the dish.
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
For a vegetarian option, replace beef with tofu and add a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as snap peas and carrots.
Pork and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Try using pork tenderloin in place of beef for a different flavor while maintaining the beloved combination of pork and broccoli.
Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
Incorporate bok choy instead of broccoli for a unique green vegetable that has a slightly sweeter taste.
Spicy Szechuan Beef Stir-Fry
Add some heat to the traditional recipe by incorporating Szechuan peppercorns and chili flakes for a spicy twist.
Beef and Green Bean Stir-Fry
Substitute broccoli for green beans, and enjoy a crunchy, flavorful alternative that pairs well with the beef.
Beef Stir-Fry with Cashews
Enhance your dish with roasted cashews for added texture and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the savory sauce.