Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender flank steak, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce with a hint of sweetness and spice. This easy-to-make recipe brings the classic Chinese takeout favorite into your kitchen in just 30 minutes. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Set aside.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add sliced flank steak and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and stir to coat the beef and broccoli.
7. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2 minutes.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the flank steak for tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of this dish.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
• Additional Vegetables: Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more variety and color.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or stir-fry in a pan with a little water or broth to prevent drying out.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   • Yes, you can use other tender cuts of beef, such as sirloin or rib-eye, but flank steak works best due to its flavor and texture.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   • It’s best to cook it fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and slice the beef and vegetables ahead of time for quicker assembly.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
   • Add more red pepper flakes, or include some sliced fresh chili peppers or hot sauce to your taste.
4. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   • Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen broccoli if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly before cooking.
5. Can I substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce?
   • Yes, coconut aminos can be used as a soy-free alternative for a slightly sweeter taste.
6. Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?
   • Yes, you can substitute with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar if you prefer.
7. What can I serve this with besides rice or noodles?
   • Serve it with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a low-carb option.
8. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like mushrooms, baby corn, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
9. How do I make the sauce thicker?
   • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more cornstarch or reduce the sauce by simmering it for longer.
10. Is this dish gluten-free?

• To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Conclusion

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a delicious and quick dish that delivers big flavor in a short amount of time. With savory beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich, slightly sweet and spicy sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving a satisfying stir-fry. It’s easy to customize and makes a great base for adding extra veggies or proteins, ensuring everyone can enjoy a tasty and wholesome meal.

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