Name: Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak (very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips); 2 Tbsp olive oil ((or vegetable oil), divided); 1 lb fresh broccoli (cut into 6 cups of florets); 2 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish); 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated); 2 tsp garlic (grated (from about 3 cloves)); 1/2 cup hot water; 6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce ((or GF Tamari)); 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar; 1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch; 1/4 tsp black pepper (a pinch); 2 Tbsp sesame oil

Beef and Broccoli is a classic dish that captures the essence of comfort food with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. Perfectly tender strips of beef paired with vibrant green broccoli in a savory sauce make this dish a staple in many households. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a delicious meal for the family, Beef and Broccoli is sure to please. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also brings a taste of the orient right to your dinner table. Let’s dive into how to create this flavorful dish from scratch!

Top Reasons to Make Beef and Broccoli

Quick and Easy: With a cook time of under 30 minutes, Beef and Broccoli is perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins, this dish is a healthier option compared to takeout.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal.
Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that ties the dish together.

What Goes Into Beef and Broccoli

1 lb flank steak: Very thinly sliced into bite-sized strips for quick cooking.
2 Tbsp olive oil: (or vegetable oil), divided to sauté the beef and broccoli.
1 lb fresh broccoli: Cut into 6 cups of florets for a healthy crunch.
2 tsp sesame seeds: Optional garnish for added texture and flavor.
1 tsp fresh ginger: Grated ginger adds a fragrant spice to the dish.
2 tsp garlic: Grated garlic (from about 3 cloves) enhances the overall flavor profile.
1/2 cup hot water: Used to help create the sauce.
6 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce: (or GF Tamari) for a savory base.
3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
1 1/2 Tbsp corn starch: Helps thicken the sauce for a nice coating on the beef and broccoli.
1/4 tsp black pepper: A pinch to season the dish.
2 Tbsp sesame oil: For a rich, nutty flavor.

Must-Have Equipment

Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying and ensuring even cooking.
Sharp knife: For slicing the flank steak thinly.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir the ingredients while cooking.

Directions: Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by slicing the flank steak into very thin strips. This ensures quick cooking and keeps the meat tender.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This will help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer, allowing it to sear for about 2 minutes without stirring. This helps to develop a nice brown crust.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Stir in the grated ginger and garlic into the beef, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 6: Create the Sauce

Combine the hot water, remaining soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the broccoli back to the pan, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Allow the sauce to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Finish with Sesame Oil

Drizzle the sesame oil over the dish, giving it a final stir. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.

Step 9: Serve

Serve your Beef and Broccoli hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

Adaptations for Special Diets

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Low-Carb/Keto: Substitute brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol.
Vegetarian: Replace beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in place of water.
Paleo: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and omit the brown sugar.

Missteps & Fixes

Cooking can sometimes lead to unexpected results. Here are a few common missteps and their fixes:

Beef is Tough: Ensure you’re slicing against the grain and marinating properly to keep the meat tender.
Sauce is Too Thin: If the sauce doesn’t thicken as desired, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the sauce while cooking.
Broccoli is Overcooked: To maintain a vibrant color and crunch, avoid overcooking the broccoli; it should be bright green and tender-crisp.
Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, balance it out with a bit of sugar or water to dilute the flavor.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Beef and Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to freshen up the sauce. For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for about 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Bring It Home

Beef and Broccoli is more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience that can easily become a beloved go-to in your kitchen. The ease of preparation, combined with the delightful taste, makes this dish a winner for any occasion. Not only will you enjoy the satisfaction of homemade cooking, but you’ll also savor every bite of this iconic dish. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some Beef and Broccoli that will leave everyone asking for seconds!