Beef and Broccoli

This classic Beef and Broccoli recipe brings together tender strips of beef and perfectly cooked broccoli in a savory sauce that’s full of flavor. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for weeknights, offering a satisfying balance of protein and veggies. Whether you’re craving a takeout-inspired dinner or simply looking for a healthy and delicious meal, this recipe will definitely hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef and Broccoli is a timeless dish that brings together the perfect blend of savory, umami-rich flavors. The tender beef and vibrant broccoli are coated in a delicious sauce that’s both light and flavorful. This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and cooks up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a busy evening. The addition of rice wine or dry sherry elevates the dish and adds depth to the sauce, while the cornstarch helps create a glossy texture that clings perfectly to the beef and broccoli. This dish is not only a healthy and satisfying meal, but it’s also a family favorite that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 500 g (1 lb) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the beef slices with the soy sauce, cornstarch, and rice wine (or dry sherry). Toss to coat the beef evenly, and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. While the beef marinates, steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

3. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

4. In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

5. Add the broccoli to the skillet and stir-fry for another 2 minutes, ensuring it’s well-coated with the garlic and ginger.

6. Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Add a splash of soy sauce and stir everything together for another minute until heated through.

7. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10–15 minutes

• Total time: ~25 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Different cuts of beef: While flank steak or sirloin are ideal for this recipe, you can also use other cuts like ribeye or tenderloin for a richer, more flavorful option.

• Add extra vegetables: If you want to pack in more vegetables, you can add bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms to the dish for added color and flavor.

• Spicy version: To add some heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or add a little chili paste to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or stir-fry it in a skillet with a little splash of water to bring back the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken breast or thigh for the beef. The cooking process will be similar, but chicken may take a bit longer to cook through.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli works best for this recipe, but frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it and drain any excess moisture before cooking.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the beef and broccoli separately in advance and store them in the fridge. Simply reheat and combine when ready to serve.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use a gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can mix a little more cornstarch with cold water and add it to the skillet, cooking for a few more minutes until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

6. Can I use a different type of wine?

If you don’t have rice wine or dry sherry, you can substitute with white wine or even chicken broth, although the flavor will differ slightly.

7. Can I add more sauce to the dish?

Yes, if you prefer a saucier dish, feel free to add a bit more soy sauce or broth while cooking. You can also double the sauce ingredients for a larger amount of sauce.

8. What’s the best way to slice the beef?

Make sure to slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. Thin slices will help the beef cook quickly and evenly.

9. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chili paste, sriracha sauce, or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.

10. Can I use a wok for this recipe?

Yes, a wok is perfect for stir-frying as it heats evenly and allows you to quickly cook the beef and vegetables without overcooking them.

Conclusion

Beef and Broccoli is an easy, flavorful dish that combines tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory, satisfying sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers all the delicious flavors you love in a quick and easy-to-make meal. Whether you stick to the classic or add your own twist, it’s a dish the whole family will enjoy!