Beef and Broccoli is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine. It features tender slices of beef and crisp broccoli, all coated in a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any day of the week. People love it for its balance of flavors and textures. What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to make at home, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of dining out.
Why make this recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it is easy and beginner-friendly. Even if you’re new to cooking, you can whip up this dish in no time. It beats takeout in flavor and freshness, making it a healthier option. Plus, it’s a time-saver; you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a family-friendly meal that suits all ages and preferences. Finally, it’s budget-friendly, using simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
How to make Beef and Broccoli
Making Beef and Broccoli is a straightforward process. First, you marinate the sliced beef for extra flavor. Then you quickly cook it in a hot pan and steam the broccoli until it’s tender. The entire cooking method is a simple stir-fry, which is both fun and easy to manage. You’ll find that you can finish this dish with minimal effort. It’s an excellent way to impress your family or friends with homemade goodness in just a short time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for Beef and Broccoli:
- 1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), sliced thinly
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Directions
Follow these simple steps for making Beef and Broccoli:
- Marinate the sliced beef in a bowl with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef to the pan. Stir-fry until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the broccoli and a splash of water, cover, and steam for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Return the beef to the pan. Mix well with the broccoli and cook together for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve over cooked rice.
How to serve Beef and Broccoli
Beef and Broccoli can be enjoyed in many ways. It can serve as a delightful dinner on busy weeknights, paired perfectly with steamed rice. You can also make it a fun lunch by serving it over noodles. Consider turning leftovers into a tasty breakfast by mixing it with scrambled eggs. For a casual setting, serve the dish in bowls to family or guests and encourage them to help themselves. The bright colors of the broccoli and the savory beef make for an inviting plate.
How to store Beef and Broccoli
To store leftover Beef and Broccoli, let it cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. It is best kept in the fridge and will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. In the freezer, it can last for up to three months. Just make sure to separate it into portions for easy reheating later. Always thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to make Beef and Broccoli
- For a tender texture, slice the beef against the grain.
- Adding a little cornstarch to the marinade can enhance the beef’s tenderness.
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep its vibrant color and crunch.
- Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to fit your preference.
Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A quick and easy dish featuring tender beef slices and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), sliced thinly
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the sliced beef in a bowl with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef to the pan and stir-fry until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the broccoli and a splash of water, cover, and steam for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Return the beef to the pan. Mix well with the broccoli and cook together for an additional 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve over cooked rice.
Notes
Slice the beef against the grain for tenderness. Avoid overcooking the broccoli to maintain its color and crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Variation
Feel free to customize this dish with various ingredients. Try swapping the beef for chicken or tofu for a different protein. You can also add cashews for extra crunch or bell peppers for additional color and flavor. If you’re aiming for a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. For a spicy twist, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I store leftover Beef and Broccoli?
Yes, leftover Beef and Broccoli can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months.
What can I use instead of beef in this recipe?
You can use chicken, shrimp, or tofu as substitutes in this Beef and Broccoli recipe.
How do I avoid overcooking the broccoli?
To prevent overcooking the broccoli, steam it just until it becomes tender, about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to maintain a nice, crisp texture.
