Ingredients
Before jumping into cooking, it’s important to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb of flank steak or sirloin beef (cut into thin strips)
- 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (sliced thin)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger (for extra zing)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (to balance the flavors)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
You may already have most of these ingredients at home, which makes this recipe even more appealing.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Here’s how to make this dish step-by-step.
Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Broccoli
The first thing you’ll need to do is prepare your beef. If you’re using flank steak or sirloin, make sure it’s sliced thinly against the grain. This helps to ensure the beef remains tender after stir-frying. Once sliced, place the beef in a bowl and season it lightly with salt and pepper. For extra tenderness, marinate the beef with a tablespoon of soy sauce for about 15 minutes. This step is optional but can enhance the flavor.
While the beef marinates, prepare the broccoli by cutting it into bite-sized florets. For even cooking, try to make sure the pieces are roughly the same size. Set the broccoli aside for now.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Beef
In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef to the pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned on all sides. Once the beef is cooked through, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Next, it’s time to stir-fry the vegetables. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onion and cook for 2 minutes until it softens slightly. Then, toss in the garlic and ginger, stirring continuously to avoid burning them. Once the garlic becomes fragrant, add the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. If the pan gets too dry, you can splash in a little water to help the vegetables cook.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While your vegetables are cooking, it’s time to prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and beef broth or water. To thicken the sauce, add the cornstarch and whisk until it’s smooth. You can adjust the sauce’s sweetness and saltiness by adding more hoisin or soy sauce to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Once the broccoli is tender and the vegetables are aromatic, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked beef back into the pan, followed by the sauce mixture. Stir everything to coat the beef and vegetables with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Your Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is now ready to be served! Garnish it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little crunch and added flavor. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s satisfying and full of flavor.
Conclusion:
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is one of those recipes that becomes a staple in your kitchen once you try it. It’s quick, easy, and always a hit with family and friends. The combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce makes this dish satisfying and healthy.
So, what are you waiting for? Give this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry recipe a try and discover just how simple it is to make a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home. With just a few ingredients and a little know-how, you’ll be able to whip up this dish anytime you’re craving something hearty and wholesome. Happy cooking!
