How to Make Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli That Wows

Stir-fried beef and broccoli – a classic for a reason! This dish is a symphony of textures and flavors, featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli coated in a savory sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Whether you’re a seasoned wok-wielder or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you to create a stir-fry that rivals your favorite takeout. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound stir-fry mastery!

The Magic of Stir-Frying

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk stir-frying. This high-heat cooking technique originates from China and is beloved for its ability to create dishes bursting with flavor and vibrant color. The key is speed and precision – ingredients are cooked quickly over high heat while being constantly tossed and turned, resulting in that signature smoky aroma and irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, we’ll be using pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a flavor-packed stir-fry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Beef and Marinade:

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (for extra savory depth, you can find this at most Asian grocery stores)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing rice wine (if unavailable, you can substitute with dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional, for a touch of heat)

Tools of the Trade

To create a truly authentic stir-fry, a wok is your best friend. However, a large skillet will do the trick too. You’ll also need:

• A sharp knife and cutting board
• A mixing bowl
• A small bowl for the sauce

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, combine all the ingredients for the marinade. Add the sliced beef and mix well to ensure every piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step tenderizes the beef and infuses it with flavor.
2. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they’re bright green and slightly tender but still retain a bit of crunch. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This step ensures the broccoli cooks evenly and retains its vibrant color during stir-frying.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing rice wine, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
4. Time to Stir-Fry: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and chili (if using) and stir-fry for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
5. Add the Beef: Spread the marinated beef in the wok in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for a minute to develop a nice crust, then stir-fry for another minute or two until it’s just cooked through.
6. Combine and Finish: Add the blanched broccoli to the wok and toss to combine with the beef. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir continuously for a minute or two, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients evenly.

Tips for Stir-Fry Success

• Velveting the Beef: Marinating the beef with cornstarch helps create a tender and velvety texture.
• High Heat is Key: Stir-frying is all about quick cooking over high heat. Ensure your wok or skillet is nice and hot before adding the ingredients.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. Cook in batches if needed.
• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You can add a pinch of salt, sugar, or a splash of soy sauce if needed.

Presentation is Key

Serve your stir-fried beef and broccoli immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak is a popular choice for stir-fries, you can substitute it with other tender cuts like sirloin, skirt steak, or even chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?

Of course! Feel free to customize your stir-fry by adding your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, and water chestnuts would all be delicious additions.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry them until heated through.

Stir-Fry Your Way to Culinary Confidence

Stir-frying is a rewarding and versatile cooking technique that opens up a world of flavor possibilities. I encourage you to try this recipe and experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create your own signature stir-fries. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with it!

Stir-frying in a Wok

What are your favorite stir-fry combinations? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!

For more inspiration and delicious stir-fry recipes, check out our guide on How to Make Ojingeo Bokkeum Sauce or explore the bold flavors of our XO Sauce Recipe.