Speedy Weeknight Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Craving Takeout? Try This Speedy Weeknight Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Fancy a night in, but your taste buds are screaming for Chinese? Honestly, same! Instead of ordering in, let’s whip up this crazy easy beef and broccoli stir fry .

It's got that classic Chinese restaurant vibe, but way healthier and quicker.

What's the Deal with Beef and Broccoli?

This dish is a total classic for a reason. Chinese beef and broccoli is packed with flavor and super satisfying.

The savory beef and broccoli sauce with tender beef broccoli stir fry has all the goodness that you could ask for.

It's a weeknight wonder. Plus, this easy beef and broccoli recipe clocks in at about 30 minutes. I mean, come on!.

This recipe makes around 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping.

Why You'll Obsess Over This Recipe

Forget bland stir fries. This healthy beef and broccoli recipe is all about packing in the nutrients. You know broccoli is a superfood, right? Think antioxidants and vitamins.

It's also great because it's a quick beef and broccoli recipe . It’s perfect for those nights when you're short on time.

What makes this tender beef and broccoli stir fry stand out? The secret is all in the sauce which makes a great stir fry sauce recipe !

Ready to get started? First, here are the ingredients that you'll need:

• For the Beef:
  • 1 pound (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce, low sodium
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
• For the Broccoli:
  • 1 large head broccoli (about 1 pound/450g), cut into florets
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil (canola or peanut oil)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
• For the Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth, low sodium
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce, low sodium
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) oyster sauce (optional, but recommended!)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

Gearing Up for the Best Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Ever

Okay, let's talk about what you actually need to make this speedy weeknight beef and broccoli stir fry happen. No need for fancy gadgets, promise.

We’re going for easy, remember? Let's jump into the main ingredients you will be needing for this quick beef and broccoli recipe

Beefy Business

You'll need 1 pound (450g) of flank steak. Get it thinly sliced. That's key for tender beef and broccoli stir fry .

Look for steak with good marbling (those little lines of fat). It means more flavor! For the marinade, grab 1 tablespoon (15ml) of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon (15ml) of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon (5ml) of sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon (2.

5ml) of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) of black pepper. Honestly, fresh ginger is amazing if you have it.

Broccoli & Sauce Shenanigans

Grab a big head of broccoli, about 1 pound (450g) . Fresh is best. It should be a vibrant green color.

You'll need 1 tablespoon (15ml) of vegetable oil (canola or peanut works great) and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Now for the sauce: 1/2 cup (120ml) low-sodium beef broth, 1/4 cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons (30ml) packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon (15ml) oyster sauce (trust me, it's worth it), 1 tablespoon (15ml) cornstarch, 1 teaspoon (5ml) sesame oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, about 1/2 teaspoon (2.

5ml) , if you like a little heat. This is really important if you are looking for chinese beef and broccoli flavours.

Spicing It Up

Soy sauce and oyster sauce are the backbone of that classic flavor. Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Sesame oil gives it that authentic, nutty aroma.

Red pepper flakes? Totally optional, but they add a nice kick to this healthy beef and broccoli . If you don't have oyster sauce, don't panic! A little extra soy sauce and a dash of Worcestershire sauce does the trick.

Essential Kit

You need a big wok or a large skillet. A good cutting board and a sharp knife are essential. Honestly, a wok spatula is super helpful, but a regular spatula will work.

Don't overthink it! If you don't have a wok, a large skillet will do just fine.

Cooking Method: Wok This Way to Amazing Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Honestly, who doesn't love a good beef and broccoli stir fry ? It's like comfort food meets healthy ish, you know? And let's be real, sometimes you just crave that Chinese beef and broccoli flavor without the takeaway guilt.

This method? It's all about speed, flavour, and minimal fuss.

Prep Like a Pro (Even When You're Not)

Essential Mise en Place : Get everything chopped and ready to go. Seriously . Slice that flank steak thinly! Have your broccoli florets standing by, and your sauce mixed.

Time Saving Organization Tips : I always measure my spices into a little ramekin beforehand. It stops me from accidentally doubling the chili flakes! Ouch .

Stir Fry Sensational: step-by-step

1. Marinate your thinly sliced beef for at least 10 minutes . This step is crucial, dont rush it!.
2. Get that wok or skillet screaming hot I'm talking shimmering.
3. Stir fry the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Don't burn it!
4. Toss in the broccoli florets. Stir fry for 3- 5 minutes until they're bright green and slightly tender crisp.
5. Remove the broccoli and set aside. Add a touch more oil if needed.
6. Stir fry the beef for 3- 5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
7. Return the broccoli to the wok, pour in the sauce, and stir fry for 1- 2 minutes until thickened.

Pro-Level Tips (Without the Chef Hat)

Hot Wok is Key: The hotter, the better. It helps to sear the beef and broccoli.

Don't Overcook the Broccoli: Nobody wants mushy broccoli.

Taste and Adjust: Is it salty enough? Sweet enough? Add soy sauce or brown sugar as needed. I learned this the hard way after making bland easy beef and broccoli one time!

Alright then, I'm out of here, so try to find this tender beef and broccoli stir fry recipe, and you will see why is so tasty

Recipe Notes for the Best Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry EVER

Hey guys! Honestly, this beef and broccoli stir fry recipe is a game changer. I wanted to share a few extra tips and tricks I've learned while making it.

You know, the stuff that elevates it from "good" to "OMG, this is amazing!". Trust me, these insights will help you make the best easy beef and broccoli you've ever tasted.

Serving It Up Right

Wanna make this Chinese beef and broccoli look like it came straight from a restaurant? I love serving it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and some chopped scallions. Super simple but adds a nice touch. As for sides? Egg rolls are always a win.

For a drink, I like a light beer or some iced green tea. It cuts through the richness nicely.

Storage Savvy

Okay, so you might have leftovers. If so, good for you! This broccoli stir fry keeps well. Pop it in an airtight container and it's good in the fridge for up to 3 days .

Just reheat in the microwave or a pan. Freezing works too! It is best to thaw it overnight, then heat in the pan until it sizzles! Be warned though, the broccoli might be a little softer when you reheat it.

Still tasty though!

Tweaks and Twists: Variations on a Theme

Let's talk variations. Want to make this gluten-free? Just use tamari instead of soy sauce. Easy peasy! For a seasonal twist, add some sliced bell peppers in the summer or some chopped butternut squash in the fall.

It is amazing! For low carb you could use cauliflower rice.

Nutrition Nuggets

Okay, so I'm no nutritionist, but this healthy beef and broccoli is pretty good for you. It's packed with protein from the beef and tons of vitamins from the broccoli.

Plus, using low-sodium soy sauce helps keep the salt in check. All in all, it is so so good.

So, there you have it! My extra tips for making the perfect tender beef and broccoli stir fry . Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

You got this! Happy cooking, friends!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make sure my beef is tender in my beef and broccoli stir fry?

Tender beef is key to a great beef and broccoli stir fry! The best way to achieve this is by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. Marinating the beef with cornstarch also helps to tenderize it and create a nice coating. Think of it like giving your beef a spa day before the stir fry action begins!

Can I use frozen broccoli for this beef and broccoli stir fry recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great time saver. Just be sure to thaw it and pat it dry before adding it to the wok. This will prevent the stir fry from becoming watery and ensure the broccoli gets a nice sear. Nobody wants soggy broccoli it's like a sad, wilted lettuce in your sandwich.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce in the beef and broccoli stir fry sauce?

Oyster sauce adds a unique umami flavor, but if you don’t have it on hand, don't fret! A good substitute is a mix of extra soy sauce and a dash of Worcestershire sauce (yes, the stuff you use on your Sunday roast!). This will give you a similar depth of flavor.

You could also try a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative made from mushrooms if you're looking for a veggie friendly option.

My sauce isn't thickening up! What am I doing wrong with my beef and broccoli stir fry?

A thin sauce is a common stir fry woe, but easily fixed. Make sure you've properly whisked the cornstarch into the sauce before adding it to the wok. Also, ensure your wok or skillet is hot enough. The heat activates the cornstarch and helps the sauce thicken.

If it's still not thickening, mix a little more cornstarch with water (a "slurry") and add it gradually, stirring constantly.

How long does leftover beef and broccoli stir fry last in the fridge? Can I freeze it?

Leftover beef and broccoli stir fry will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Be aware that the texture of the broccoli may soften slightly after freezing.

Is beef and broccoli stir fry healthy? What about the sugar and sodium?

Beef and broccoli stir fry can be a relatively healthy dish, especially when made at home! It's packed with protein and vegetables. To reduce the sugar and sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also add more vegetables to increase the fiber content.

It’s all about balance, like a good cup of tea with just the right amount of milk!