This Broccoli Beef Stir-Fry is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy beef recipes. You’ll love how quickly this flavorful dish comes together, offering a satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and a great way to enjoy tender beef and crisp broccoli.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Flank Steak: You can easily swap this for sirloin or skirt steak for similar results.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh is best, but frozen can work in a pinch.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Ginger & Garlic: Fresh is always preferred, but pre-minced works if you’re short on time.
- Cornstarch: A little bit helps thicken your sauce and tenderize the beef.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, mixing bowls, whisk.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine your thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until the beef is well coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
2. Whisk the Sauce
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil for your stir-fry sauce. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps. Set this aside.
3. Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Beef
Add a little more oil to the hot skillet if needed. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you might need to cook the beef in batches. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside with the broccoli.
5. Sauté Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced ginger and garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
6. Combine and Thicken
Pour your prepared stir-fry sauce into the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
7. Finish the Stir-Fry
Return the cooked beef and broccoli to the skillet with the thickened sauce. Toss everything gently to coat evenly. Cook for another minute or so, just to heat through. Serve immediately.
Variation Ideas
- Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra vegetables.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete healthy beef meal.
- For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Broccoli Beef Stir-Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. For best texture, avoid overcooking when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, you can. Thaw it first and pat it dry to prevent excess water in your stir-fry.
Q: How do I slice the flank steak thinly?
A: Partially freezing the steak for 20-30 minutes makes it much easier to slice against the grain.
Q: Is this a gluten-free recipe?
A: To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.
Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: You can marinate the beef and whisk the sauce a day ahead. Cook just before serving for the best results.
Q: What does “against the grain” mean for slicing beef?
A: It means slicing perpendicular to the muscle fibers. This helps make the beef more tender.
Q: What if my sauce isn’t thickening?
A: Ensure your sauce is simmering. If it’s still too thin, mix a tiny bit more cornstarch with cold water, then whisk into the sauce and simmer briefly.
