Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

Introduction

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that combines tender strips of beef with crisp, vibrant broccoli in a savory stir-fry sauce. This classic Chinese-inspired dish brings together the richness of beef with the earthy, slightly sweet taste of broccoli, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. The stir-fry method locks in the flavors, making each bite perfectly balanced with juicy beef and tender vegetables.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful addition to your meal prep. With a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a delicious and healthy dish that rivals your favorite takeout. This guide will walk you through each step of the recipe, offer tips for success, and suggest variations to make this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness from the hoisin or oyster sauce creates a well-rounded, umami-packed sauce that complements the beef and broccoli perfectly.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps and a short cooking time, Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a fast and simple dish to prepare. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal that doesn’t take hours to make.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while lean beef provides protein and iron. This dish is packed with nutrients, making it both satisfying and healthy.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sauce to your liking, add extra vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, or use different cuts of beef to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This stir fry holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 10-15g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated or minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
• ¼ cup water or beef broth (for stir-frying)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Optional Garnishes:

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions, thinly sliced
• Red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)

Special Equipment

While Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is easy to make with just basic kitchen tools, a few pieces of equipment can help you achieve the best results:

1. Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is ideal for stir-frying, but any large skillet or frying pan with high sides will work. A wok’s shape allows for quick, even cooking and helps distribute heat evenly.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for thinly slicing the beef against the grain. This will ensure the meat is tender and easy to chew.
3. Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements of soy sauce, sugar, and other ingredients will help you create the perfect stir-fry sauce.
4. Grater or Microplane: Fresh ginger adds a wonderful flavor to the dish. A grater or microplane allows you to finely grate the ginger, releasing its natural oils and aroma.
5. Tongs or Wooden Spoon: For tossing the beef and broccoli in the hot pan, use tongs or a wooden spoon to prevent the ingredients from sticking and to ensure even cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef and Vegetables

Start by slicing the beef into thin strips against the grain. This helps ensure that the beef is tender after cooking. If you’re using flank steak or sirloin, trim any excess fat before slicing.

Cut the broccoli into small florets, making sure they are all roughly the same size so they cook evenly. If you are using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it before using.

Prepare the garlic by mincing it, and grate or finely chop the ginger. Set these ingredients aside.

2. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce), rice vinegar, brown sugar, and cornstarch (if using). Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and the cornstarch is fully mixed in. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce, creating a glossy finish. Add water or beef broth to thin out the sauce slightly and give it the right consistency.

If you want a bit of extra flavor, add a teaspoon of sesame oil to the sauce for a nutty, aromatic finish.

3. Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced beef. Spread it out in an even layer, allowing it to sear and brown for about 2-3 minutes without stirring. Stir the beef to ensure even cooking, then cook for another 2-3 minutes until it’s browned and just cooked through. Transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Broccoli

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the broccoli florets to the pan and stir-fry for about 2 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.

Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

5. Combine the Beef and Broccoli

Return the cooked beef to the pan with the broccoli. Give the stir-fry sauce a quick stir and pour it over the beef and broccoli mixture. Toss everything together to coat the beef and broccoli in the sauce.

If you want the sauce to thicken, continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes. The cornstarch in the sauce will help it become glossy and coat the beef and broccoli beautifully.

6. Serve the Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Once the beef and broccoli are coated in the sauce and everything is heated through, remove the stir-fry from the heat. Serve immediately over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal.

Optional garnishes like sesame seeds, green onions, or red pepper flakes can be added for extra flavor and a pop of color.

Tips for Perfect Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Slice the Beef Thinly: For tender beef, it’s important to slice it thinly against the grain. This allows the muscle fibers to break down, resulting in a more tender bite.
• Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli will give the dish a better texture and flavor than frozen. If you’re using frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a lot of ingredients, it’s best to stir-fry the beef and broccoli in batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and develops a nice sear.
• Adjust the Sauce: You can make the sauce sweeter, saltier, or spicier depending on your taste. Add more sugar for sweetness, soy sauce for saltiness, or a dash of chili sauce for heat.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables to the stir-fry. Bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, or snap peas all work well in this dish.

Variations of Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

• Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry with Bell Peppers: Add some colorful bell peppers to the stir-fry for added crunch and sweetness. Slice the peppers thinly and add them along with the broccoli for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: For those who like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce. You can also drizzle some chili oil over the stir-fry for an extra kick.
• Beef and Broccoli with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the stir-fry to make the dish even more hearty. Mushrooms absorb the flavors of the sauce, creating a rich, savory flavor that complements the beef and broccoli.
• Vegetarian Stir Fry: For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for tofu or tempeh. Both are excellent protein-rich alternatives that soak up the delicious stir-fry sauce.
• Gluten-Free Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Ensure that all other sauces used are gluten-free as well.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave the stir-fry for a few minutes or reheat it in a pan over medium heat.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in a pan.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Pair this dish with complementary sides to complete your meal:

• Steamed Rice: The mild flavor and fluffy texture of steamed rice are the perfect base for this savory stir fry.
• Fried Rice: For an extra layer of flavor, serve the stir fry with fried rice. The egg, vegetables, and soy sauce in the fried rice make a delicious contrast to the beef and broccoli.
• Spring Rolls: Light and crispy spring rolls with a dipping sauce make a great appetizer or side dish to accompany the stir fry.
• Asian-Inspired Salad: A fresh salad with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing would provide a refreshing contrast to the hot stir-fry.

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Conclusion

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines tender beef, crunchy broccoli, and a flavorful stir-fry sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty dish to add to your meal prep rotation, this recipe delivers. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can enjoy a homemade meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauce to suit your taste. Whatever variation you choose, Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!