Easy Beef and Broccoli: A Quick and Delicious Recipe

Easy Beef and Broccoli: A Deliciously Simple Delight

Easy Beef and Broccoli is a dish that brings together tender strips of beef and vibrant green broccoli in a savory sauce that is simply irresistible. This classic stir-fry has its roots in Chinese cuisine, where it has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among families and food lovers alike.

What I love most about Easy Beef and Broccoli is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The juicy beef pairs beautifully with the crisp-tender broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, umami-packed sauce. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but it also offers a nutritious balance of protein and vegetables. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

Join me as we explore the steps to create this Easy Beef and Broccoli masterpiece in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup of beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving

Preparing the Beef

1. Start by slicing the beef. I find it easiest to freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing. This firms it up and makes it easier to cut thinly.
2. Once the beef is slightly frozen, remove it from the freezer and slice it against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This helps to ensure that the beef is tender when cooked.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef evenly. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Preparing the Broccoli

1. While the beef is marinating, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
2. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps to maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
3. After a few minutes, drain the broccoli and set it aside.

Making the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, and 1/2 cup of beef broth or water. This will be the sauce that brings all the flavors together.
2. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the sauce mixture. This will add a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to the dish.

Cooking the Beef

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the beef.
2. Add the marinated beef to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook the beef in batches. Sear the beef for about 2-3 minutes without stirring, allowing it to develop a nice brown crust.
3. Once the beef is browned, stir it to cook through for another 1-2 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Cooking the Broccoli and Combining

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the blanched broccoli and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until heated through.
2. Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli, stirring to combine everything evenly.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a little more cornstarch with water and add it to the skillet, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Finishing Touches

1. Once the sauce has thickened, drizzle the sesame oil over the beef and broccoli. This adds a lovely nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
2. Give everything a final stir to ensure the sesame oil is well incorporated.
3. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serving

1. Serve the beef and broccoli hot over a bed of cooked rice. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite satisfying.

2. 

   Conclusion:

   In conclusion, this Easy Beef and Broccoli recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to whip up a delicious and satisfying meal in no time. The combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce creates a dish that is not only flavorful but also visually appealing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet impressive to serve your family or guests.

   One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a healthier twist, consider using lean cuts of beef or substituting the beef with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to enhance the nutritional value and add more color to your plate. If you’re a fan of spice, a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate the flavor profile and give it a nice kick.

   When it comes to serving suggestions, this Easy Beef and Broccoli pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a complete meal that is sure to satisfy. You can also serve it with a side of egg rolls or dumplings for a more authentic Asian-inspired feast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

   I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience, and I’d love to hear how your version turns out! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Easy Beef and Broccoli recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!

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   Easy Beef and Broccoli: A Quick and Delicious Recipe

   This Beef and Broccoli stir-fry features tender beef slices and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, making it a quick and delicious weeknight dinner option. It's easy to prepare and pairs perfectly with rice for a satisfying meal.

   Prep Time20 minutes

   Cook Time15 minutes

   Total Time35 minutes

   Category: Family Dinners

   Yield: 4 servings

   Save This Recipe

   Ingredients

   • 1 pound of beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
   • 2 cups of broccoli florets
   • 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
   • 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
   • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
   • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
   • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
   • 1 teaspoon of ginger, minced
   • 1/2 cup of beef broth or water
   • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Cooked rice, for serving

   Instructions

   1. Start by slicing the beef. Freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing to firm it up for easier cutting.
   2. Once slightly frozen, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick for tenderness.
   3. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
   4. While the beef marinates, bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
   5. Transfer the broccoli to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process, maintaining color and texture.
   6. After a few minutes, drain the broccoli and set aside.
   7. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, and 1/2 cup of beef broth or water.
   8. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the sauce mixture for added flavor.
   9. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot.
   10. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes without stirring to develop a brown crust.
   11. Stir the beef to cook through for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
   12. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and stir-fry the blanched broccoli for about 2 minutes until heated through.
   13. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, pour the sauce mixture over, and stir to combine.
   14. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. For a thicker sauce, mix more cornstarch with water and add as needed.
   15. Drizzle the sesame oil over the beef and broccoli, stirring to incorporate.
   16. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
   17. Serve the beef and broccoli hot over a bed of cooked rice, allowing the rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

   Notes

   • For extra flavor, consider adding sliced bell peppers or carrots to the stir-fry.
   • Adjust the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce based on your taste preference.