Beef and broccoli is a classic dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp, vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, making it a favorite for anyone craving a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe brings together a perfect balance of flavors and textures, creating a comforting yet impressive dish that’s sure to please the whole family. With its quick cooking time and simple ingredients, this beef and broccoli recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this beef and broccoli recipe for its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that evokes memories of cozy nights spent at your favorite Chinese restaurant, but in the comfort of your own kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish at home; I was nervous about replicating the flavors, but as soon as the beef hit the hot skillet, the sizzle and aroma filled my kitchen with anticipation. It’s a meal that brings everyone together, perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends. Plus, it’s packed with protein and vegetables, making it a health-conscious choice too!
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate for Flavor: To truly enhance the flavor of the beef, marinate it for at least 30 minutes before cooking. A simple marinade of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger goes a long way.
- High Heat Cooking: Cook over high heat for a quick stir-fry. This helps to sear the beef, locking in its juices and keeping the broccoli bright and crunchy.
- Prep Ahead: Chop your broccoli and slice the beef in advance. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook.
- Use Cornstarch: For a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and add it to the pan at the end of cooking.
Make Ahead Tips
To make your cooking experience smoother, you can marinate the beef and chop the broccoli ahead of time. Marinated beef will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days, while chopped broccoli can be stored in an airtight container for about 3 days. You can also prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week, just give it a good stir before using.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Different Sauces: Experiment with teriyaki sauce or a spicy chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve your beef and broccoli over a bed of fluffy white rice or cooked quinoa for a hearty meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions for an elegant touch. A drizzle of additional soy sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also enhance the dish’s flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, or a refreshing ginger ale for a non-alcoholic option. For sides, consider serving steamed jasmine rice and a light cucumber salad. A slice of green tea cheesecake can make for a delightful dessert to finish the meal.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking the broccoli.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet or wok for stir-frying. A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for slicing the beef and vegetables. A mixing bowl for the marinade will also come in handy. If you don’t have a wok, a large non-stick skillet will work just as well.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, swap the beef for firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. For a gluten-free option, ensure that the soy sauce is gluten-free and substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free thickener if necessary.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, use fresh seasonal vegetables like asparagus or snap peas in place of broccoli for a lighter dish. In the fall and winter months, consider adding roasted butternut squash for a heartier twist.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, but be aware that it may become mushy when cooked. Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture.
- How long should I cook the beef? Slices of beef typically take about 2-3 minutes per side when stir-frying, depending on thickness.
- What can I substitute for soy sauce? You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
How To Make beef and broccoli recipe
Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Beef and broccoli is a classic dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp, vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, making it a favorite for anyone craving a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
- Sesame seeds and sliced scallions for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, cover, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil and the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Return the beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the pan, stirring well to combine.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 466Total Fat 23gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 90mgSodium 1048mgCarbohydrates 27gFiber 4gSugar 4gProtein 37g
Leafyplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although Leafyplated.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this beef and broccoli recipe at home is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of a beloved restaurant dish right to your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the process, make it your own, and savor every bite!
