Beef and Broccoli

Who doesn’t love a good Beef and Broccoli stir-fry? This classic dish brings the vibrant flavors of tender beef and crisp broccoli together in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with friends, this recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant right into your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef and Broccoli recipe is a true crowd-pleaser! It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and a hint of ginger creates a balanced and flavorful sauce that coats the tender beef and fresh broccoli perfectly. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
• 1⁄2 cup water, plus 2 tablespoons water, divided
• 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 lb boneless round steak or 1 lb chuck steak, cut into thin 3-inch strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, cut into wedges
• 1⁄3 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Hot cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 2 tablespoons of water, and garlic powder until smooth. Add the beef and toss to coat.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the beef until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove the beef from the pan and keep it warm.
3. In the same pan, stir-fry the broccoli and onion in the remaining oil for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the beef to the pan.
5. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and the remaining cornstarch and water until smooth. Add this mixture to the pan and stir well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Tips for Success

For the best results, slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure it stays tender. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to the sauce mixture. Be sure to stir the sauce constantly as it thickens to prevent any lumps.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and flavor. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 12g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Simply add it directly to the pan without thawing.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I substitute chicken for beef? Absolutely! Boneless chicken breast or thigh would work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delightful Beef and Broccoli recipe. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!