Description
This easy beef and broccoli stir fry recipe is a weeknight wonder, bursting with savory-sweet notes and tender textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a classic for a reason, and this simple preparation lets the fresh ingredients truly shine.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/3 cup warm water
3 tbsp brown sugar
1.5 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp sesame oil
Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
Combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and steam for about 3-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Remove broccoli from skillet and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the same skillet and increase heat to high. Add thinly sliced flank steak in a single layer (do this in batches if needed). Sear beef for 1-2 minutes per side until nicely browned. Remove seared beef and set aside with broccoli.
Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Pour prepared sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, or until sauce has thickened to a glossy consistency.
Return seared beef and cooked broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the thickened sauce. Let heat through for another minute. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Notes
For the most tender beef, slice it as thinly as possible against the grain. Partially freezing the steak makes this much easier.
When searing the beef, cook it in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature and cause the meat to steam instead of sear, resulting in a less desirable texture.
Aim for broccoli that is bright green and still has a slight bite. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant color.
Whisk the cornstarch thoroughly into the liquid ingredients to ensure a smooth sauce without lumps. The sauce will thicken quickly once heated.
- Prep Time: Approximately 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian