Speedy Beef Broccoli Stirfry
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a beef broccoli stir fry that’s quicker than ordering takeout? Honestly, this recipe is a game changer! The perfect mix of savory and slightly sweet will have you ditching the delivery apps in no time.
Brief Overview
This dish has roots in Chinese cuisine, a staple in countless homes worldwide. Ready in under an hour, it’s beginner friendly and serves four hungry people. This recipe is the perfect weeknight lifesaver.
Main Benefits
Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse! This dish delivers both deliciousness and vitamins. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something satisfying and healthy.
This easy beef and broccoli recipe is special because it's faster, healthier, and tastier than takeout. Let's go and check the ingredients that you will need for a wonderful weeknight beef broccoli stir fry .
What You'll Need: The Ingredient Rundown
Here’s what you need to whip up this deliciousness.
For the Beef
Thinly sliced flank steak is key. I prefer to partially freeze my steak for 15 minutes. It makes it so much easier to slice! You'll also need soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, and pepper.
For the Stir Fry
Grab some vegetable oil or peanut oil. Garlic, ginger, and broccoli florets are also essential. Oh, and don't forget soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch.
Red pepper flakes are optional, but I like a little kick.
Let's not forget the cooked rice for serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for that extra touch of yum.
This homemade beef and broccoli takeout recipe will knock your socks off. Did you know that beef with broccoli recipe is among of the most searched asian recipes on the internet.
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Best Ever Beef Broccoli Stir Fry
Alright, let's chat about what you'll need for this beef broccoli stir fry . It's seriously easy, I promise! Think of it as your ticket to tasty homemade beef and broccoli takeout without the guilt.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
Let's start with the essentials.
- Flank steak : 1 lb (450g). Look for a piece with good marbling. This means those little streaks of fat that make it super tender. Skirt steak or sirloin work well too.
- Broccoli florets : About 4 cups (340g) from one head. Fresh is best! But frozen will work.
- Soy sauce : 1/4 cup (60ml), low sodium is better.
- Oyster sauce : 2 tbsp (30ml). This adds that umami flavour.
- Brown sugar : 1 tbsp (15ml), packed. This balances the saltiness.
- Cornstarch : You will need 2 tbsp (30ml) total, 1 tbsp for the marinade and 1 for the sauce.
- Vegetable oil : 1 tbsp (15ml) for stir frying.
- Sesame oil : 2 tbsp (30ml) total, 1 for marinade and 1 for the finishing.
I've found that good quality steak really makes a difference. Honestly, the best beef and broccoli stir fry starts with great beef.
Seasoning Secrets: Flavour Boosters
Don't underestimate the power of seasoning! These little additions make all the difference.
- Garlic : 2 cloves , minced. Fresh garlic is a must!
- Ginger : 1 inch (2.5cm), peeled and minced.
- Red pepper flakes : 1/4 tsp (optional). Only if you like a kick.
- Essential Combination: Low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch: it is very important to use these elements to create the perfect "copycat" takeout beef n broccoli stir fry
If you don't have oyster sauce, hoisin sauce works. Or even a mix of soy sauce and brown sugar. This is still a tasty easy beef and broccoli .
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You really don't need fancy gear for this quick beef and broccoli recipe .
- Wok or large skillet . A wok is ideal. A large skillet will do if you don't have one.
- Cutting board and knife .
- Measuring cups and spoons .
- Spatula or wooden spoon .
- Serving Bowls : Because you will want to try your Beef Broccoli Stir Fry Recipes Right away!
Honestly, cooking should be fun, not stressful. No fancy equipment needed for this weeknight beef broccoli stir fry .
Speedy Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry: Wok This Way!
Craving Chinese takeout, but you’re short on time?
Honestly, we've all been there. That's where this beef broccoli stir fry comes in! It's quick, easy, and tastes just like your favourite takeaway, but it's made with real ingredients.
Think juicy beef, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a sauce that’ll have you licking the plate.
Ready? Let's get started with this quick beef and broccoli recipe !
Prep Steps: Get Your Mise en Place Sorted!
First things first: grab all your ingredients! Slice 1 lb (450g) flank steak super thin. Trust me, it makes all the difference.
Chop one head of broccoli into florets. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and 1 inch of ginger .
Mix the marinade (see ingredients above) and let the beef soak for at least 30 minutes if you have time.
It's optional, but worth it! Whisk together your stir fry sauce in another bowl. This step is vital for fast cooking.
Safety First : No one wants a kitchen disaster. Handle raw meat carefully and wash your hands.
step-by-step Process: Wok This Way!
- Heat 1 tbsp (15ml) vegetable oil in your wok on high heat. Seriously, crank it up!
- Stir fry your beef for 3- 5 minutes . It should be browned, not burnt.
- Remove the beef, and stir fry the garlic and ginger for just 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and 1/4 cup (60ml) water. Steam for 2- 3 minutes , the broccoli needs to be crisp tender.
- Toss the beef back in, pour over the sauce, and stir fry for 1- 2 minutes until thick.
- Stir in 1 tbsp (15ml) sesame oil . Serve immediately over rice!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Stir Fry!
Pro Tip #1: Don't overcrowd the wok! Cook the beef in batches for best results. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing.
Pro Tip #2: Taste the sauce. Need more sweetness? Add a touch more brown sugar. It's all about finding your personal balance of flavour.
Ever messed up a stir fry by overcooking the broccoli? Honestly, I’ve been there. Watch it like a hawk! A little crunch is what we're after.
You can even make the sauce ahead of time!
Now, go get cooking. Impress your mates with some awesome homemade beef n broccoli stir fry .
Recipe Notes for the Best Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Right then, let's talk shop about this Speedy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Honestly, sometimes it's the little things that can make or break a dish.
And beef broccoli stir fry recipes can be a bit dodgy sometimes, you know? Here’s my take!
What to Serve with Your Beef 'n' Broccoli Masterpiece?
Okay, so you’ve nailed the beef n broccoli stir fry . But what do you actually serve it with? Forget those sad, soggy sides. Presentation is key!
Plating: Pile that gorgeous beef with broccoli recipe high on a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and those fancy sliced green onions. It just looks better, doesn’t it?
Sides: Honestly, egg rolls or potstickers work a treat. For something lighter, a simple cucumber salad. A bowl of Egg Drop Soup can be nice too! Also, a tall glass of iced green tea is a winner.
Storing Leftover Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
We all overestimate how much we can eat, don't we? So, dealing with leftovers is part of the game.
Fridge Time: Get that homemade beef and broccoli takeout into an airtight container. It'll keep happily in the fridge for 3-4 days .
Freezing (Yep, You Can!): This freezes surprisingly well. Store in a freezer safe container. Will be good for up to 2 months . Make sure it's cooled down fully first.
Reheating: Microwaving is fine, but a quick toss in a pan gets it back to its former glory. Make sure the beef is heated through properly .
Beef Broccoli Stir Fry Remixes
Fancy a change? No problem! There's more than one way to skin a cat, and more than one way to make beef broccoli stir fry .
Dietary Tweaks: Sub chicken or shrimp for the beef if you are looking for a new taste! Tofu or tempeh works wonders for a veggie version.
Seasonal Swaps: Honestly, mushrooms add a lovely depth. Or, if you like your food a little bit different, add some kale instead of broccoli to get more protein!
Nutrition Snapshot of this Flank Steak Broccoli Stir Fry
Alright, let's be real. It's takeout style, but you're making it. At roughly 350-450 calories per serving, it's packed with protein (30-35g) and has a good dose of carbs (25-30g).
The key here is low-sodium soy sauce to help you in your way!
Honestly, a quick beef and broccoli recipe like this is a lifesaver on a weeknight . Don't overthink it. Just get in the kitchen and give it a go.
You got this! So get ready for an easy beef and broccoli stir fry session!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this beef broccoli stir fry ahead of time?
You can prep the individual components of the beef broccoli stir fry ahead of time, like slicing the beef, chopping the broccoli, and mixing the sauce. However, it's best to cook it right before serving to ensure the beef is tender and the broccoli remains crisp.
Reheating can sometimes make the broccoli a bit mushy, which is a bit like soggy bottom on "The Great British Bake Off" - nobody wants that!
What's the best way to store leftover beef and broccoli stir fry?
Let the beef and broccoli stir fry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, a quick zap in the microwave works, or you can stir fry it again in a pan with a little oil to revive it - just like bringing back a classic from the 80s!
I'm trying to eat healthier. How can I make this beef broccoli stir fry a lighter option?
Good on you for trying to be healthy! You can make this beef broccoli stir fry healthier by using lean beef, reducing the amount of sugar in the sauce, and using low-sodium soy sauce.
Also, load up on the broccoli (or add other veggies like bell peppers and snap peas), and serve it with brown rice or quinoa for a more nutritious meal, rather than white rice. Think of it as swapping your usual cuppa for a green tea - still tasty, but better for you!
My beef turned out tough! What did I do wrong with my beef broccoli stir fry?
Tough beef is a common stir fry woe. Make sure you're slicing the beef thinly, against the grain. Marinating it beforehand helps tenderize it too it's like giving it a spa day! Also, don't overcook it! High heat and a quick cooking time are essential for tender beef in a beef broccoli stir fry.
Can I substitute other vegetables in this beef broccoli stir fry?
Absolutely! Stir fries are super versatile. Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables cook faster than others.
It's your stir fry, so get creative think of it as putting your own spin on a classic tune!
I don't have oyster sauce, what can I use instead in my beef broccoli stir fry?
No worries, lots of people don't have oyster sauce in the cupboard! Hoisin sauce is the closest substitute, but you can also mix a tablespoon of soy sauce with a teaspoon of brown sugar, and a dash of molasses. It won't be exactly the same, but it will add that savory sweet umami flavor to your beef broccoli stir fry.
It's all about making do and getting the job done, like a proper wartime kitchen!
Speedy Beef Broccoli Stirfry
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 400 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 17.5g |
| Fiber | 2.5g |