Beef and Broccoli is a classic stir-fry dish that brings together tender slices of beef and vibrant green broccoli, all coated in a rich, savory garlic sauce. The balance of flavors—umami-packed soy sauce, sweet hoisin, and a hint of sesame—creates an irresistible combination that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Not only is this dish incredibly easy to make at home, but it also beats takeout in both flavor and freshness. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or meal-prepping for the week, this quick and nutritious dish will become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice for the ultimate comfort meal!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Directions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil and sesame oil. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is well combined.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot over white rice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Beef and Broccoli: A Classic Stir-Fry Dish Full of Flavor
Beef and Broccoli is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time in Asian cuisine, particularly in Chinese-American cooking. This simple yet flavorful stir-fry combines tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli, all coated in a rich, savory garlic sauce. It’s a staple at many restaurants, but making it at home is incredibly easy, healthier, and just as delicious—if not better!
This dish is perfect for those looking for a quick, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, Beef and Broccoli is a go-to recipe that delivers on both taste and nutrition.
The History of Beef and Broccoli
While Beef and Broccoli is commonly associated with Chinese cuisine, its origins actually stem from a fusion of culinary influences. Traditional Chinese cooking often includes stir-fried beef dishes, but the use of broccoli is more of a Western adaptation. In authentic Chinese cooking, you’ll more likely find gai lan (Chinese broccoli) used instead. However, as Chinese immigrants adapted their recipes to Western tastes, regular broccoli became a common substitute due to its availability and mild flavor.
Today, Beef and Broccoli is a staple of Chinese-American takeout menus, and it has become a favorite dish worldwide. The combination of tender beef, vibrant green broccoli, and a flavorful, umami-packed sauce makes it a timeless classic.
Why You Should Make Beef and Broccoli at Home
Many people associate Beef and Broccoli with takeout, but making it from scratch at home has several advantages:
- Healthier Ingredients: Homemade versions allow you to control the quality of ingredients, reducing sodium, sugar, and oil compared to restaurant-made options.
- Fresher Taste: Freshly cooked beef and crisp broccoli have a much better texture and flavor than their takeout counterparts.
- Customization: You can adjust the seasonings, spice levels, or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to make it even more nutritious.
- Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
The Secret to Tender Beef in Stir-Fry
One of the key elements to making the perfect Beef and Broccoli is ensuring that the beef is tender and not chewy. Here are some pro tips for achieving the best texture:
- Choose the Right Cut: Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are excellent choices because they cook quickly and remain tender.
- Slice Thinly: Cutting the beef into thin strips against the grain helps break down tough fibers, resulting in a more tender bite.
- Use Cornstarch: Many Chinese recipes use a technique called “velveting,” which involves coating the beef in a mixture of cornstarch and soy sauce. This helps lock in moisture and keeps the beef juicy.
- Don’t Overcook: Stir-frying over high heat for just a few minutes is enough to cook the beef while keeping it tender.
The Perfect Sauce for Beef and Broccoli
The rich, savory sauce is what ties this entire dish together. It’s a balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors with just a hint of spice. The key ingredients include:
- Soy Sauce: The base of the sauce, adding depth and umami.
- Oyster Sauce: Provides a slightly sweet, rich, and savory flavor.
- Hoisin Sauce: Adds complexity and a hint of sweetness.
- Garlic and Ginger: Essential aromatics that bring warmth and depth to the dish.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it that signature glossy finish.
Best Ways to Serve Beef and Broccoli
Beef and Broccoli is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great serving suggestions:
- Over White Rice: The classic pairing—steamed jasmine or basmati rice soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
- With Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds more fiber and nutrients.
- With Noodles: Tossing this stir-fry with lo mein or rice noodles makes for a fun twist.
- Low-Carb Options: Serve with cauliflower rice or simply enjoy it on its own for a keto-friendly meal.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This dish is excellent for meal prep because it stays fresh for several days and reheats well. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze Beef and Broccoli for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheating: Warm it in a pan over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about Beef and Broccoli is that it can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to give it a kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the beef with tofu or mushrooms and use a vegetarian oyster sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
Conclusion
Beef and Broccoli is a timeless dish that perfectly balances tender, flavorful beef with crisp, nutrient-rich broccoli, all coated in a rich and savory sauce. Its simplicity, quick cooking time, and bold flavors make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving a healthier alternative to takeout.
By making this dish at home, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your liking while ensuring a fresher, healthier meal. Plus, with endless variations—from spicy to gluten-free and vegetarian options—Beef and Broccoli is a versatile recipe that suits different dietary preferences.