Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
A cozy weeknight classic that combines tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a flavorful sauce, perfect for quick dinners and family-friendly meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain tender and flavorful
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets vibrant, crisp, and wholesome
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce salty backbone of the sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce deep, slightly sweet richness
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar or honey balances the sauce with a hint of caramel
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar brightens the flavors
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch thickens the sauce to a glossy finish
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or avocado oil for high-heat searing
- 3 cloves garlic, minced aromatic and warming
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated adds a bright, peppery lift
- 2 green onions sliced for garnish and a fresh bite
- sesame seeds (optional) nutty crunch for finishing
- red pepper flakes (optional) for a subtle kick
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the beef by slicing it thinly against the grain. Toss the slices with 1 teaspoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar or honey, rice vinegar, and the remaining cornstarch until smooth.
- Blanch the broccoli in a pot of boiling salted water for 1 minute, then shock in ice water. Drain well.
Cooking
- Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and sear the beef in batches until browned but slightly pink inside, about 1–2 minutes per side.
- Reduce heat to medium-high, add the remaining oil, and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Add the blanched broccoli and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and toss everything until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 1–2 minutes.
- Finish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
For a festive meal, add sliced bell peppers, baby corn, or water chestnuts. Make it healthier by swapping half the beef with mushrooms. Customize the heat and flavor by adjusting the sauce or marinating the beef.