Stir-frying is a popular Chinese cooking technique that has become a go-to for many households. Not only is it a great way to use up leftover vegetables, but it also makes for a quick and delicious meal. Beef and broccoli stir fry is a classic dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect beef and broccoli stir fry recipe.
Ingredients
To make beef and broccoli stir fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. flank steak, sliced thin
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect beef and broccoli stir fry:
Step 1: Prep the ingredients
Start by prepping all of the ingredients. Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain and marinate it with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Chop the broccoli florets, red bell pepper, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and ginger.
Step 2: Cook the beef
Heat up a wok or a large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok and swirl to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef and stir-fry until it is browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the wok and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the vegetables
In the same wok, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the chopped broccoli florets and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes. Add the sliced red bell pepper and onion and stir-fry for another minute.
Step 4: Combine the beef and vegetables
Add the cooked beef back to the wok and stir-fry for another minute to combine all the ingredients. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is cooked, remove the wok from the heat and transfer the beef and broccoli stir fry to a serving platter. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Tips
- Slice the flank steak against the grain to ensure that it stays tender.
- Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Use a wok or a large skillet with high sides to ensure that the ingredients cook evenly.
- Stir-fry the ingredients quickly over high heat to retain their color and texture.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli florets; they should be slightly crisp and tender.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a different cut of beef such as sirloin or ribeye, but flank steak is the best choice for stir fry recipes.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli florets instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets, but make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply stir-fry the beef and vegetables in a wok or skillet until heated through.
4. Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, mushrooms, or snow peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetables you choose.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the use of soy sauce and oyster sauce, which contain gluten. However, you can use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
Conclusion
Beef and broccoli stir fry is a classic Chinese dish that is both delicious and easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can make this dish in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, beef and broccoli stir fry is the perfect choice. So why not give it a try and enjoy a taste of China in the comfort of your own home?