Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re craving something speedy, savory, and utterly satisfying, this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is about to become your go-to weeknight dinner. Tender marinated beef and vibrant broccoli come together in a glossy, flavor-packed sauce—ready in 15 minutes and even better than takeout!

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s truly amazing how a short list of humble ingredients builds into layers of flavor and texture in Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Each one brings something special—tender meat, crisp veggies, and a luscious sauce that soaks into every bite.

• Flank steak: This cut is made for stir fries—just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for the most tender results.
• Baking soda: A classic trick for ultra-soft beef; it helps break down the meat fibers (don’t skip it!).
• Shaoxing wine: An essential Chinese pantry staple that adds depth and nuance—substitute dry sherry in a pinch.
• Light soy sauce: Brings savory saltiness and umami, while letting the other flavors shine.
• Oyster sauce: Delivers signature rich, sweet, and slightly briny undertones to both the marinade and the sauce.
• White pepper: Adds subtle, peppery warmth distinct from black pepper—worth including if you can!
• Cornstarch: Used twice: it tenderizes the beef and helps the sauce get that classic, glossy cling.
• Broccoli: A vibrant, sturdy vegetable that soaks up the savory sauce and holds its crunch beautifully.
• Garlic & ginger: Fresh aromatics bring brightness and fragrance to every bite.
• Dark soy sauce: Boosts color and depth, balancing the lighter soy and oyster sauce.
• Granulated sugar: Just a touch rounds out the salt and umami, enhancing the sauce’s balance.
• Low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce saucy, savory, and not too salty.
• Toasted sesame oil: Stirred in at the end for rich nuttiness and irresistible aroma.

Variations

The beauty of Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry? It’s a canvas for your cravings! Don’t hesitate to riff on the recipe—whether you’re working with different vegetables, proteins, or simply want to tailor the dish to your preferences.

• Chicken and Broccoli: Swap out the beef for sliced chicken breast or thigh—just follow the same marinade and cooking method.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for added color and crunch.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or some red pepper flakes to the stir fry sauce for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and be sure your oyster sauce is gluten-free to make the dish allergy-friendly.

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by tossing your thinly sliced flank steak with baking soda, Shaoxing wine, both soy sauces, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch. This quick marinade unlocks the beef’s flavor and ensures every bite stays melt-in-your-mouth tender. Let it sit while you prep the other ingredients—just 15 minutes is plenty.

Step 2: Mix the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, both soy sauces, Shaoxing wine, sugar, chicken broth, and a little cornstarch. This simple sauce brings all the savory, slightly sweet, and glossy magic to your Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Set aside; you’ll want it at the ready when it’s stir fry time.

Step 3: Par-Cook the Broccoli

Blanch your broccoli florets for just 1–2 minutes in salted boiling water. They’ll turn bright green and stay crisp-tender—no soggy veggies here! Drain and set them aside so they’re ready to jump into the wok.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a sizzling-hot wok or skillet. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and let it sear—30 seconds per side is all it takes to achieve beautiful browning and unbeatable succulence. Remove the beef and set it aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

In the same pan, stir fry the garlic and ginger until incredibly fragrant—just a half-minute. Toss in the broccoli, give it a quick flip, then add the beef back along with your sauce. Stir fry for a couple minutes until everything’s coated in glossy perfection and the sauce has thickened. Finish with a splash of toasted sesame oil for that iconic aroma. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

Garnishes

Sprinkle sliced green onions and a shower of toasted sesame seeds over your Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry for extra crunch, freshness, and irresistible appeal. If you like a pop of color and a hint of heat, add a few thinly sliced red chilies right before serving.

Side Dishes

Fluffy steamed white rice, jasmine, or even brown rice is the classic companion for soaking up every last drop of sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, serve alongside cauliflower rice or simply with a crisp cucumber salad for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling your stir fry into lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on appetizer, or top a bowl of ramen noodles with the beef and broccoli for a quick noodle bowl. You can even meal-prep individual containers with rice and veggies for grab-and-go weekday lunches!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next meal almost as good as the first!

Freezing

For longer storage, portion cooled stir fry into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months—just note the broccoli will be a bit softer when reheated, but the flavor stays spot-on.

Reheating

To reheat, simply stir fry leftovers in a hot pan with a splash of water or broth until steaming. For an even quicker fix, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep everything evenly hot and saucy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to dig into this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry—a recipe that proves fast cooking doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. Treat yourself to a homemade takeout favorite that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!

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