Do you crave a quick and tasty dinner? Look no further! This Easy Beef and Broccoli recipe packs a punch of flavor and can be on your table in no time. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Grab your pan and let’s dive into this quick, savory meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
To make Easy Beef and Broccoli, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Cooked rice, for serving
These items create a vibrant dish full of flavor. The beef brings a rich taste, while the broccoli adds crunch and color. The soy sauce and oyster sauce together add depth. Don’t skip the garlic and ginger, as they give a fresh kick.
Using low sodium soy sauce helps keep the meal healthy. Cornstarch is key for thickening the sauce. The sesame oil brings a nutty flavor that ties everything together.
This recipe serves four. You can enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or a fancy dinner. If you want more details on cooking, check the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Marinate the beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch
– Blanch the broccoli florets
First, get a medium bowl. Place the sliced flank steak or sirloin inside. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Add the cornstarch. Mix it all well, so the beef gets coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This helps keep the beef juicy and full of flavor.
While the beef marinates, grab a pot and fill it with water. Bring it to a boil. Once it bubbles, toss in the broccoli florets. Blanch them for about 2 minutes. You want them bright green and just tender. Drain the broccoli and set it aside.
Cooking Steps
– Sear marinated beef in vegetable oil
– Add garlic and ginger, then cook for an additional minute
Now, take a large skillet or wok. Heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the marinated beef. Spread it out in a single layer. Let it sear for about 2-3 minutes. Don’t stir it yet; let it brown well.
After that, flip the beef. Now add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for another minute. The smell will be amazing!
Finalizing the Dish
– Pour in beef broth and reduce
– Combine with broccoli, season, and serve
Next, pour in the beef broth. Let it simmer for around 3-4 minutes. This reduces the sauce a bit and makes it richer. Then, add the blanched broccoli into the skillet. Stir everything together. Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you like heat. Cook for 2 more minutes until hot.
Taste your dish and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot over cooked rice. For the full recipe, check the instructions above. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
Marinating the beef is key for flavor. I like to mix the beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. This step makes the beef tender and flavorful. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
To get the perfect sear on the beef, heat your pan first. Use medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Don’t stir it for 2-3 minutes. This helps form a nice crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a low-sodium option, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. It has a similar taste but with less salt.
For the beef, if you don’t have flank steak or sirloin, you can try ribeye or even ground beef. Just make sure to slice it thinly for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters! Serve the beef and broccoli in a deep dish. Place a scoop of rice on the side. Garnish with sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil. This adds flavor and looks great.
For side dishes, consider serving with steamed rice or fried rice. You could also add a side of spring rolls or dumplings. These pair nicely with the savory flavors of the beef and broccoli.
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can switch up the protein in this dish. Chicken is a great choice. Just slice it thinly like the beef. Tofu is another option. Firm tofu works best, and it absorbs flavors well. You can also use mushrooms for a vegetarian take. Slice them thick and sauté until tender.
Adding Vegetables
Adding more veggies can boost the nutrition. Bell peppers add color and crunch. Carrots give a nice sweetness. Snap peas are crunchy and bright. Seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also work well. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces before cooking.
Flavor Variations
You can adjust the spice levels easily. Add more red pepper flakes for heat. Try different sauces, like teriyaki or hoisin, for unique flavors. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish. Basil or cilantro adds a fresh twist. You can mix and match to find your favorite combination!
Try these variations to make your Easy Beef and Broccoli even more exciting. For the full recipe, check out the recipe section above!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
Store your Easy Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Make sure it cools down to room temperature first. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just remember to label it with the date. This way, you know when to eat it.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the dish in a freezer-safe container. Try to remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Make sure it’s heated all the way through.
Meal Prep Ideas
Meal prep makes busy nights easier. You can marinate the beef a day ahead. Store it in the fridge so it’s ready to cook. Pre-chop your broccoli and keep it in a separate container. This saves time when you want to make the dish. Use clear, stackable containers for easy storage. If you like, you can also portion out servings. This helps you grab a meal quickly on a busy night. For more ideas, check out the Full Recipe for variations!
FAQs
How long does it take to make Easy Beef and Broccoli?
Making Easy Beef and Broccoli takes about 25 minutes. You need 15 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking. This quick dish is perfect for busy nights. It gives you tasty food without a long wait.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Marinate the beef in the morning. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to cook. Blanch the broccoli earlier too. If you do this, the flavors will still be great. Just avoid cooking it too soon.
What can I serve with Beef and Broccoli?
Beef and Broccoli pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
– Steamed rice
– Fried rice
– Noodles
– Salad
– Egg rolls
– Dumplings
You can also use soy sauce or chili sauce for extra flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
Easy Beef and Broccoli is not very spicy. It has a mild flavor. If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes. You can also use a spicy sauce. Adjust the spice to your taste. Enjoy it mild or with a kick!
We covered how to make Easy Beef and Broccoli. We discussed the ingredients, steps, and tips to create a tasty dish. Remember, marinating adds flavor, and you can swap ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you choose beef, chicken, or tofu, the dish remains a quick and satisfying meal. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. You’ll love sharing this dish with friends or family!
