Save This dish highlights thinly sliced flank steak marinated briefly to enhance tenderness and flavor. Crisp broccoli florets are stir-fried until just tender to retain their vibrant color and crunch. Garlic and ginger provide a fragrant base, while the sauce combines soy, oyster, and hoisin with a touch of brown sugar for balance. The final dish is finished with toasted sesame seeds and green onions, delivering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes ideal for weeknight meals.
Discovering this Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry instantly became a kitchen favorite for me–there's something so comforting about tender beef strips paired with crisp broccoli in a sauce that's savory and aromatic. It was one of those dishes I stumbled upon when I craved something quick but still packed with flavor on a busy weeknight.
I still remember the first time unexpected guests arrived and I whipped this up from scratch in under 30 minutes. Their surprised smiles made me feel like a kitchen wizard all night.
Ingredients
- Flank steak: I always slice it thinly against the grain for tenderness, making sure the beef stays juicy
- Soy sauce: This is my go-to for that perfect umami punch–choose low sodium if you prefer less salt
- Broccoli florets: Fresh and crisp, I pick tight green crowns and wash them thoroughly before cooking
- Sesame oil: Just a little adds a toasty depth that transforms the sauce
Instructions
- Marinate the beef:
- In a medium bowl, toss the thin slices of flank steak with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let this sit for 10 minutes so the flavors soak in and the texture softens.
- Make the sauce:
- Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin, cornstarch, brown sugar, beef broth, and sesame oil until smooth and glossy.
- Stir fry the broccoli:
- Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok over high heat. Toss in the broccoli and stir-fry just until it turns vibrant green and is tender but still crisp, about 2-3 minutes. Set it aside.
- Cook the beef:
- Add the remaining oil, then the marinated beef slices in a single layer. Sear undisturbed for a minute to get that beautiful browning, then stir-fry for another 2 minutes until just cooked through.
- Add aromatics:
- Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger; stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant and your kitchen smells amazing.
- Bring it all together:
- Return the broccoli to the pan, pour in your sauce, and stir everything well to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is piping hot.
- Finish and serve:
- Take it off the heat and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like. Serve immediately with steamed rice for the perfect meal.
Save This dish became more than just food on a dreary evening when it brought my family together after a long week. It was comfort, celebration, and connection all in one flavorful stir fry.
Keeping It Fresh
Always try to use the freshest broccoli you can find. The brighter the green, the better the crunch and flavor. I like to steam the broccoli just slightly before stir-frying if I have time, but the direct high-heat method works brilliantly too.
When You're Missing Something
If you find yourself out of oyster sauce or hoisin, don't fret. A splash of Worcestershire sauce mixed with a bit of honey can bridge the gap in a pinch, though it shifts the flavor profile slightly.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
While steamed jasmine rice is classic, try pairing this stir fry with garlic noodles or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
- Remember to taste your sauce before adding—balance is key
- For more texture, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or cashews at the end
- Leftovers reheat beautifully and often taste even better the next day
Save Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me! I hope this recipe brings you just as much joy and family smiles as it has for me.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the broccoli crisp when cooking?
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Stir-fry broccoli quickly over high heat until it just turns vibrant and tender-crisp, then remove it before cooking the beef to avoid overcooking.
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
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Flank steak or any thinly sliced beef against the grain works well to ensure tenderness and quick cooking.
- → Can I substitute the beef with other proteins?
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Chicken or tofu can be used as alternatives, adjusting cooking times accordingly for best results.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
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Use tamari in place of soy sauce and ensure oyster and hoisin sauces are gluten-free or replaced with suitable alternatives.
- → What is the purpose of cornstarch in the marinade and sauce?
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Cornstarch helps tenderize the meat and thickens the sauce for a smooth, glossy finish.
