Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender strips of beef are cooked with crisp-tender broccoli and coated in a savory stir fry sauce made with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Ready in under 30 minutes, this healthy recipe can be served over steamed white rice for a complete meal. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner or preparing for meal prep, this beef and broccoli stir fry is a simple, nutritious option. You can easily make it gluten-free by swapping soy sauce for tamari, and customize it with your favorite vegetables for a versatile meal.

Ingredients

Beef and Broccoli Ingredients:

• 1 lb flank steak, very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil), divided
• 1 lb broccoli (cut into 6 cups of florets)
• 2 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Stir Fry Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (loosely packed)
• 2 tsp garlic, grated (from 3 cloves)
• ½ cup hot water
• 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce (or GF Tamari for gluten-free)
• 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
• 1 ½ Tbsp corn starch
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 Tbsp sesame oil

Instructions

1. Start by cooking your white rice first so it’s ready when the stir fry is done. For easier slicing, cover and freeze the steak for about 30 minutes before cutting it into thin strips.
2. In a small bowl, combine all stir fry sauce ingredients: grated ginger, garlic, hot water, soy sauce, brown sugar, corn starch, black pepper, and sesame oil. Stir well to dissolve the sugar, then set the sauce aside.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp of oil. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 4-5 minutes, partially covering with a lid and stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender. Remove from the pan. Tip: If you prefer softer broccoli, add 2 Tbsp of water before covering with the lid to steam cook it.
4. Increase the heat to high and add the remaining 1 Tbsp of oil to the pan. Add the beef in a single layer and sauté for 2 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Test for doneness by pulling out a piece and checking.
5. Once the beef is cooked, add the stir fry sauce to the pan and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken.
6. Add the sautéed broccoli back into the pan and stir to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 Tbsp of water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve the beef and broccoli stir fry over freshly cooked white rice. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The tender strips of beef are complemented by crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet stir fry sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy nights. Plus, it’s versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your preferences, whether you like your broccoli tender or crisp!

Tips

• Slice the steak thinly: Freezing the steak for 30 minutes before slicing makes it much easier to cut thin strips, ensuring a tender texture when cooked.
• Adjust the sauce thickness: If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add 1-2 tbsp of water to reach your desired consistency.
• Don’t overcook the beef: Cook the beef quickly over high heat to ensure it stays tender. Remove it from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through.
• Use a wok for best results: A wok allows for quick, even cooking over high heat, making it perfect for stir fry dishes like this one.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to press the tofu to remove excess water before cooking.
• Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stir fry, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and flavor.
• Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes, chili paste, or sriracha to the stir fry sauce if you like a little heat.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While stir fry dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time by slicing the beef and chopping the broccoli. Store the stir fry sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply stir fry the beef, add the sauce, and toss in the broccoli.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

How do I make the beef more tender?
For even more tender beef, marinate the thinly sliced flank steak in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of baking soda for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to break down the fibers of the meat for a more tender result.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry with a side of steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Add a side of Asian-inspired appetizers like spring rolls or dumplings for a complete dinner spread.
• Pair with a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the rich flavors of the stir fry.

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and fresh, making it a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!