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Flavorful Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe Easy Homemade Takeout Alternative

beef and broccoli stir fry - featured image

A quick and easy beef and broccoli stir fry with a savory, slightly sweet sauce and tender beef, perfect for a homemade takeout alternative.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • ¼ cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • ½ cup (120ml) beef or chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening)
  • 4 cups (about 300g) broccoli florets, washed and trimmed
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice 1 lb flank steak against the grain into ¼ inch thick strips. Set aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine 2 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1 tbsp cornstarch. Toss beef strips in mixture and let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and ½ cup broth. Set aside.
  4. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
  5. Add marinated beef in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 1-2 minutes to sear, then stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until mostly cooked but still tender. Remove beef and set aside.
  6. In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Stir-fry broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Optionally add a splash of water and cover briefly to steam.
  7. Return beef to pan with broccoli. Pour in sauce and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  8. Stir in cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water). Cook for another minute until sauce thickens and coats ingredients.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness. Marinate with cornstarch to create a velvety crust and lock in juices. Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to get a good sear. Add broccoli last to keep it crisp. Fresh garlic and ginger provide better flavor than bottled. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef and broccoli, stir fry, easy dinner, homemade takeout, quick recipe, weeknight meal, savory sauce, gluten-free option