Introduction
Beef and broccoli is one of those dishes that instantly brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Tender slices of beef coated in a rich savory sauce combined with crisp broccoli create a balance of flavor and texture that feels both indulgent and nourishing. This classic recipe has earned its place in home kitchens because it delivers restaurant style taste without complicated techniques.
Many people love beef and broccoli because it feels familiar yet special at the same time. The aroma of garlic and ginger cooking together fills the kitchen with warmth and signals a hearty meal ahead. Served with steamed rice or noodles it becomes a complete dinner that works for busy weeknights and relaxed family meals alike.
Cooking beef and broccoli at home allows full control over ingredients and seasoning. You can adjust the saltiness sweetness and sauce thickness to match your personal preference. Fresh vegetables tender meat and a glossy sauce come together in a way that feels homemade and wholesome while still offering bold flavors inspired by classic Asian style cooking.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a complete ingredients table with approximate calorie counts. Calories may vary depending on brands and portion sizes.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories Approx |
|---|---|---|
| Beef sirloin or flank steak | 500 grams | 900 |
| Fresh broccoli florets | 3 cups | 90 |
| Soy sauce | 4 tablespoons | 40 |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tablespoons | 50 |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons | 60 |
| Garlic cloves minced | 4 cloves | 20 |
| Fresh ginger grated | 1 tablespoon | 5 |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Brown sugar | 1 tablespoon | 50 |
| Beef broth or water | 1 cup | 10 |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | 3 |
| Red chili flakes optional | half teaspoon | 2 |
| Green onions for garnish | 2 stalks | 10 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Begin by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This step helps ensure the meat stays tender and cooks evenly.
- Place the sliced beef in a bowl. Add one tablespoon soy sauce and one tablespoon cornstarch. Mix well until each piece is lightly coated. Set aside for ten minutes.
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly and cut it into bite sized florets. Keep them uniform so they cook at the same speed.
- Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Add broccoli and blanch for two minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the broccoli immediately and rinse with cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the color vibrant.
- In a small bowl prepare the sauce. Combine remaining soy sauce oyster sauce brown sugar black pepper red chili flakes and beef broth. Mix until smooth.
- Heat a large pan or wok over medium high heat. Add vegetable oil and let it heat until shimmering.
- Add the marinated beef to the pan in a single layer. Cook for two to three minutes without stirring to allow browning.
- Stir the beef and cook another minute until just cooked through. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan add sesame oil. Add garlic and ginger. Stir constantly for thirty seconds until fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pan. Pour the prepared sauce over the meat.
- Add the blanched broccoli to the pan. Toss everything together gently.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for two to three minutes until it thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Turn off the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
• Choose tender cuts of beef such as sirloin ribeye or flank steak for the best texture
• Slice beef while slightly frozen to achieve thin even cuts
• Add mushrooms bell peppers or snow peas for extra vegetables
• Use low sodium soy sauce to control salt levels
• Increase garlic and ginger for a bolder flavor
• Add a teaspoon of chili sauce for heat lovers
• Swap beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste
• Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness
Nutritional Information
This dish provides a balanced mix of protein vegetables and healthy fats. Beef supplies iron zinc and protein which support energy and muscle health. Broccoli adds fiber vitamin C and antioxidants that support digestion and immunity.
Approximate nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Fat | 24 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Values vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
Beef and broccoli tastes best when served hot straight from the pan. Steamed white rice is the most popular pairing because it absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully. Brown rice offers a nuttier taste and adds more fiber.
For a lighter option serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple cucumber salad. Noodles such as rice noodles or egg noodles also work well and turn the dish into a hearty bowl meal.
This recipe also works well for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove or microwave. The flavors deepen over time making it just as enjoyable the next day.
Conclusion
Beef and broccoli is a timeless recipe that continues to win hearts because of its simplicity and satisfying flavor. The combination of tender beef crisp broccoli and savory sauce creates a dish that feels comforting yet fresh. Cooking it at home allows you to enjoy better ingredients and customize every element to suit your taste.
This recipe proves that restaurant quality meals do not require complicated steps or hard to find ingredients. With a little preparation and attention to detail you can create a dish that feels special and nourishing. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that brings warmth flavor and balance to the table.
