Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful Chinese-inspired stir-fry with tender slices of beef and crisp broccoli florets, coated in a savory brown sauce. A satisfying and healthy meal for two, ready in minutes.
Marinate the beef
Slice the beef thinly against the grain (across the muscle fibers). In a medium bowl, combine the beef slices with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil. Mix well to coat the beef. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to marinate.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Slicing against the grain makes the beef more tender.
- •Marinating helps tenderize the beef and gives it flavor.
Prepare the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, 1/4 cup water or beef broth, and 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil. Stir until the sugar and cornstarch are completely dissolved.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Have the sauce ready before you start cooking, as stir-fries cook very quickly.
- •Whisking well prevents the cornstarch from clumping.
Cook the broccoli
Heat 1/2 tablespoon neutral oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 2 cups broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp (cooked but still slightly firm and bright green). You can add 1-2 tablespoons of water and cover for a minute to steam them lightly if they are too hard. Remove the broccoli from the wok and set it aside.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Tender-crisp means the vegetables are cooked but still have a slight bite.
- •Do not overcrowd the wok; cook in batches if necessary.
Cook the beef and aromatics
Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon neutral oil to the hot wok. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Push the beef to one side of the wok. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the empty side and cook for 30 seconds until they smell pleasant (fragrant).
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Fragrant means it smells good and aromatic.
- •Do not overcook the beef at this stage; it will finish cooking with the sauce.
Combine and finish
Pour the prepared sauce into the wok, stirring constantly as it thickens. Return the cooked broccoli to the wok with the beef. Toss everything together vigorously to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until all ingredients are well combined and heated through.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •Tossing quickly ensures all ingredients are evenly coated.
- •Ensure the sauce has thickened to a glossy consistency.
Serve
Serve the Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry immediately over 2 cups cooked white rice.
💡 Pro Tips:
- •This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
- •You can sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Large wok or skillet
- Medium bowl (for beef marinade)
- Small bowl (for sauce)
- Whisk
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- 💡For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce or stir-fry sauce is gluten-free.
- 💡You can add other vegetables like sliced carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms to customize your stir-fry.
- 💡Prep all your ingredients (chop vegetables, mix sauces) before you start cooking, as stir-frying is very fast.
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