Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

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.

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 15 mins

Total Time 35 mins

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Estimated Cost: $ 15

Calories: 280 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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

1 pound beef (flank steak or sirloin) (sliced thinly against the grain)
1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tbsp cornstarch
3 tbsp vegetable oil
4 cups broccoli florets
1/4 cup oyster sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup water

Instructions

Preparation

1
Prepare the BeefSlice 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.
2
Mix the SauceIn 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.
3
Prepare the BroccoliCut 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

4
Cook the BeefHeat 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.
5
Cook the BroccoliIn the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir-fry the blanched broccoli for 2 minutes until vibrant green.
6
Combine and SimmerReturn 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

7
Garnish and EnjoyGarnish 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.

Keywords: beef, broccoli, stir-fry, savory, umami

Final Thoughts

Delight in Every Bite

Beef and broccoli is not just a dish; it's an experience. Each tender morsel of beef coated in that savory, umami-rich sauce, paired with crisp, vibrant broccoli florets, is a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Memories Around the Table

This dish holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of cozy family dinners where laughter echoed around the table. It's a recipe that brings loved ones together, creating moments that linger long after the last bite is savored.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Pair this beef and broccoli with steamed rice for a wholesome meal or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option. To store leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Join the Culinary Adventure

I encourage you to embark on this culinary adventure and savor the joy of creating a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Don't hesitate to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and share your feedback or ask any questions. Let's cook, share, and celebrate the magic of food together!

Read it online: https://bestcajuncook.com/recipe/beef-and-broccoli-stir-fry/

Samantha Doe

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Samantha, a full-time food blogger, mother of 2 beautiful daughters and a lovely wife. I live in New Jersey with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.