Beef and broccoli stir-fry is a quintessential dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich and savory sauce. This dish, popular in Chinese cuisine, is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner occasion. Follow this guide to create a mouthwatering beef and broccoli stir-fry that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Broccoli:
- 8 oz lean sirloin steak, sliced thinly (best if partially frozen)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 tbsp oil
For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp of either white wine or rice wine
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking soda
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp dry sherry or dry white wine
- 1 slice ginger, crushed
- 1/8 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp dark sesame oil
- 1 tsp ketchup
- 1/2 cup water
For the Thickener:
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
Marinate the Beef
- Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine the white wine or rice wine, soy sauce, cornstarch, and baking soda. Mix well until the cornstarch and baking soda are fully dissolved.
- Add the thinly sliced sirloin steak to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the beef marinate for at least 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it.
Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
- As the beef marinates, concoct the stir-fry sauce. In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce, dry sherry or dry white wine, crushed ginger, white pepper, dark sesame oil, ketchup, and water.
Cook the Broccoli
- Warm a tablespoon of oil in a sizable skillet or wok set to medium-high heat.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender.
Cook the Beef
- In the same pan, pour in another tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef slices and crushed garlic. Stir-fry the beef for about 3-4 minutes until it is browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the beef to maintain its tenderness.
Combine and Thicken
- Add the cooked broccoli back into the skillet alongside the beef. Drizzle the beef and broccoli with the ready-made stir-fry sauce.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients. In a small dish, combine the cornstarch and cold water to form a smooth slurry.
- Gradually add this mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly.
Conclusion
Your savory beef and broccoli stir-fry is now ready to be served! This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. The tender beef, crisp broccoli, and flavorful sauce come together to create a harmonious and delicious dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures, and relish the simplicity and elegance of this classic stir-fry. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this beef and broccoli stir-fry is sure to impress. Happy cooking!