The beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic dish that beautifully marries tender slices of beef with vibrant green broccoli florets in a savory, umami-packed sauce. This beloved recipe has roots in Chinese-American cuisine, where it has become a staple on menus and dinner tables alike. Its popularity stems from the perfect balance of flavors and textures—the succulent beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and the glossy, flavorful sauce that brings it all together.
Origin and Significance:
History:
The origins of beef and broccoli can be traced back to Chinese cooking traditions, where stir-frying is a revered technique for creating quick, delicious meals. In the United States, Chinese immigrants adapted traditional recipes to appeal to Western palates, giving rise to dishes like beef and broccoli that showcase the harmony of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients and Flavors:
Key Ingredients:
The star ingredients in this dish are thinly sliced beef, fresh broccoli florets, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. The beef is typically marinated to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor before being stir-fried with the broccoli until everything is coated in the luscious, velvety sauce.
Flavor Profile:
The sauce combines salty soy sauce, earthy oyster sauce, aromatic garlic, and ginger to create a rich, savory base that complements the natural sweetness of the beef and broccoli. The dish is often finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.
This beef and broccoli recipe is a quick and satisfying dish that brings together the best of Chinese and American flavors. The tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce make it a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions. So, grab your wok and get ready to stir-fry up a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Description
Tender beef strips and crisp broccoli coated in a savory sauce, this stir-fry is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, offering a comforting and nutritious dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation
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Prepare the Beef
Slice 1 lb of flank steak thinly against the grain. Marinate with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of sugar for 30 minutes.Slicing against the grain ensures tenderness. -
Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 1/2 cup beef broth. Mix well.Adjust sweetness and saltiness to your taste. -
Prepare the Broccoli
Cut 2 cups of broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces. Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer to ice water to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
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Cook the Beef
Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a pan over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from pan and set aside. -
Cook the Broccoli
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the blanched broccoli for 2 minutes until vibrant green. -
Combine and Simmer
Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce mixture. Stir well and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli.
Serve
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Garnish and Enjoy
Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.For extra flavor, drizzle with sesame oil before serving.
Note
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or sugar to the sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
- For a quicker meal, marinate the beef and make the sauce in advance.
- To make this dish spicier, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the flavors.
