24. Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Quick and Easy Recipe

Looking for a quick and easy dinner that zings with flavor? You’ve found it! My Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry will have you cooking like a pro in just 30 minutes. This dish is packed with tender steak, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce. Plus, I’ll share tips to make your stir-fry shine. Let’s jump right into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Thinly sliced flank steak
– Broccoli florets
– Red bell pepper
Marinade Ingredients
– Soy sauce
– Oyster sauce (optional)
– Cornstarch
Cooking Ingredients
– Sesame oil
– Vegetable oil
– Garlic and ginger
When you cook beef and broccoli stir-fry, you need fresh, high-quality ingredients. The beef should be thinly sliced flank steak. This cut is tender and cooks quickly. Broccoli florets provide a nice crunch and color. Red bell pepper adds sweetness and depth.
For the marinade, you’ll use soy sauce. This gives the beef a savory taste. Oyster sauce is optional but can add an extra layer of flavor. Cornstarch helps make the beef nice and tender.
In the cooking process, sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor. Vegetable oil has a high smoke point, making it great for stir-frying. Garlic and ginger will bring warmth and depth to the dish.
These ingredients create a delicious dish. You can find the Full Recipe for more details on how to combine these flavors perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Beef
First, gather your ingredients. You’ll need flank steak, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. In a medium bowl, mix the flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Make sure the beef is coated well. Let it marinate for 15 minutes. This helps the beef soak in all the flavors.
Blanching the Broccoli
While the beef marinates, get a pot of water boiling. Add salt to the water. Once it’s boiling, add the broccoli florets. Blanch them for about 2 minutes. This makes them bright green and tender-crisp. After that, quickly put the broccoli in an ice bath. This stops the cooking. Drain the broccoli and set it aside.
Cooking Beef and Vegetables
Heat a large pan or wok on medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil when it’s hot. Now, arrange the marinated beef in a single layer in the pan. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring. This gives the beef a nice brown color. Once browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
In the same pan, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds. You’ll smell a nice aroma. Next, add the sliced red bell pepper and the blanched broccoli. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. The veggies should be tender yet still crisp.
Return the cooked beef to the pan. Drizzle sesame oil over everything. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes. Taste the dish and add more soy sauce if needed. Now, you’re ready to serve! Enjoy your Beefy Broccoli Bonanza over jasmine rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Marinade
For the best flavor, marinate the beef for about 15 minutes. This short time helps the meat absorb the soy sauce and oyster sauce. The cornstarch adds a nice texture. If you let it sit longer, the beef can become too soft. Just remember, 15 minutes is the sweet spot!
Cooking Techniques
When stir-frying, use a large pan or wok. Heat the vegetable oil on medium-high heat until it shimmers. This temperature helps to sear the beef quickly. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a nice golden crust. Cook the beef in a single layer for 2-3 minutes without stirring. Then, you can add the veggies and aromatics for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Beefy Broccoli Bonanza over fluffy jasmine rice. The rice soaks up all the delicious sauce. For garnishes, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top. They add color and a fresh taste. Enjoy your meal with a side of your favorite steamed dumplings for a complete feast!
Variations
Protein Alternatives
If you want to change the meat, you have options. Chicken works great in this dish. Just cut it into thin strips like the beef. Tofu is perfect for a vegetarian option. Use firm tofu and press it to remove extra water. Shrimp is also a tasty choice. Cook it until it turns pink, which takes only a few minutes.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to swap out the broccoli. Other vegetables work well too. Carrots add a nice crunch and sweetness. Bell peppers in different colors can enhance your dish, too. Snow peas or snap peas are quick-cooking and add a fresh bite. You can even add mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Mix and match to find your favorite blend.
Flavor Boosts
Want to take it up a notch? Add more flavors! A splash of hoisin sauce can add some sweetness. Try chili paste if you like heat. You could also throw in sesame seeds for crunch. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro work wonders as a finishing touch, giving freshness to each bite.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool first. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh. Place the container in the fridge. This keeps your beef and broccoli tasty for up to three days. Make sure to label your container with the date.
Reheating Tips
When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to keep the dish moist. Stir often to heat evenly. You can also use a microwave. Cover the dish loosely to avoid steam build-up. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove for best results.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed cooking method for Beefy Broccoli Bonanza.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for stir-fry?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli.
Pros:
– It’s convenient and saves time.
– It’s often frozen at peak freshness, keeping nutrients.
Cons:
– Frozen broccoli may be softer than fresh.
– It can release more water in the pan.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you want a soy sauce swap, try these:
– Tamari is a great gluten-free option.
– Coconut aminos work well for a sweeter taste.
– Worcestershire sauce adds a nice depth of flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make your Beef and Broccoli gluten-free, use these options:
– Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
– Use gluten-free cornstarch instead of regular.
– Check your oyster sauce brand for gluten-free options.
Full Recipe
For the complete cooking method and details, check out the Beefy Broccoli Bonanza 🥦.
You now have all the key steps to make Beefy Broccoli Bonanza. We discussed main ingredients like flank steak, broccoli, and red bell pepper. We also covered the marinade and cooking oils you need. With tips on marinating, cooking techniques, and serving, you can impress anyone.
Feel free to tweak the recipe with alternative proteins and veggies. Proper storage techniques also help maintain freshness. Dive into your kitchen and enjoy an easy, delicious meal!
