Tired of takeout that just doesn’t hit the spot? I’ve got a solution for you! This Beef & Broccoli recipe is quick, simple, and tastes even better than your favorite restaurant dish. Using fresh ingredients and easy steps, you’ll whip up a delicious meal in no time. Ready to impress your taste buds and save some cash? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Marinade Ingredients
– 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Serving
– Cooked white rice or noodles
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– 2 green onions, finely sliced, for garnish
This simple recipe is packed with flavor and is easy to make. You can find flank steak at most grocery stores. It cooks fast and tastes great when sliced against the grain. Broccoli adds a nice crunch. You can use fresh florets for the best taste.
For the marinade, you mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and sesame oil. This mix gives the beef a rich flavor. The brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness. Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce later.
When serving, you can choose rice or noodles. Both options work well with this dish. The sesame seeds and green onions on top make it look nice and add extra flavor. Enjoy making this at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Beef
– In a medium bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and sesame oil.
– Add thinly sliced flank steak to the bowl. Coat each piece well in the marinade.
– Let the beef sit for 15 minutes. This helps the meat soak up the flavors.
Blanch the Broccoli
– Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
– Add the fresh broccoli florets to the boiling water. Blanch for about 2 minutes.
– When the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender, drain it in a colander. Set it aside.
Cook the Beef and Aromatics
– In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat.
– Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
– Once the beef is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
– In the same skillet, add the other tablespoon of vegetable oil.
– Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring to keep it from burning.
Combine Everything
– Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the garlic.
– Add the blanched broccoli to the skillet. Pour in beef broth.
– Toss everything together and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens.
Serve the Dish
– Serve the beef and broccoli over cooked white rice or noodles.
– Garnish the dish with sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions. Enjoy the flavors!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Searing Process
High heat is key for browning your beef. This step gives your dish great flavor and texture. Start by making sure your skillet or wok is very hot. When the oil shimmers, add your beef in a single layer. This helps it sear well. Don’t crowd the pan, or your beef will steam instead of brown.
Broccoli Consistency
The perfect crunch in broccoli comes from proper blanching. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your broccoli florets for about 2 minutes. They should turn bright green and be slightly tender but still crisp. Drain them right away to stop the cooking process. This keeps the broccoli vibrant and crunchy.
Enhancing the Flavor
To elevate the taste of your beef and broccoli, consider adding extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. You could also drizzle a bit of hoisin sauce for sweetness. Experiment with flavors like sesame seeds or fresh herbs like cilantro. These touches can make your dish truly shine!
Variations
Adding Vegetables
You can make this dish even better by adding more veggies. Try using bell peppers. They add color and sweetness. Carrots are also great. Slice them thin for a nice crunch. Snap peas work well, too. They bring a fresh taste and a pop of green. Mixing in these veggies makes your meal healthier and more colorful.
Different Proteins
If you want to switch things up, try different proteins. Chicken is a good choice. Use thin slices just like the beef. Tofu is a great option for a plant-based meal. It soaks up the flavors well. Shrimp cooks quickly and adds a nice seafood twist. Each protein gives a new taste to this classic dish.
Gluten-Free Options
For those who need a gluten-free meal, there are easy swaps. Instead of regular soy sauce, use gluten-free soy sauce. It tastes similar and works well in the dish. You can also find gluten-free oyster sauce. These changes keep the flavor while making it safe for everyone to enjoy.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store your beef and broccoli, let it cool first. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty for up to three days. Store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, just check for any signs of spoilage.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this dish, too! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Seal it tightly to avoid freezer burn. It can last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Stir often until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but do it in short bursts. Cover the dish to hold in moisture. This way, your beef and broccoli stay flavorful and tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. It saves time and is easy to find. Just remember that frozen broccoli may be softer than fresh. To use it, skip the blanching step. Instead, add the frozen broccoli directly to the pan when you combine everything. It will cook through in the sauce.
What can I substitute for flank steak?
You have many options! You can use sirloin, ribeye, or even ground beef. If you want a lighter protein, try chicken or tofu. Each option will change the taste a bit, but they will still be delicious. Just adjust cooking times based on what you choose.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the dish. It will stay good in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. When reheating, use low heat to keep the meat tender.
This recipe showcases a simple way to make a delicious dish with flank steak and fresh broccoli. You can prepare it with easy steps, ensuring tasty results. Remember, marinating the beef adds flavor, and blanching the broccoli keeps it crisp. Whether you stick to the basics or try variations, this meal fits your needs. Enjoy your creation with rice or noodles, and don’t forget the garnish! Cooking can be fun and rewarding—give it a try!
