Broccoli Beef
A flavorful Chinese-inspired stir-fry featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli, coated in savory soy and sesame flavors, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal for families or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate beef with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cooking wine.
- Heat peanut oil in a preheated wok.
- Quickly stir-fry beef until the meat changes color.
- Pull beef up on the side of the wok to stop it from cooking.
- Add water to the wok and place broccoli along the sides of the wok to steam with the lid on for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Remove excess water from the wok.
- Pull all the food down into the center of the wok and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you prefer, substitute broccoli with asparagus for a twist, or use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake. Ensure your wok is hot enough before adding the beef to achieve a good sear. This dish pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, enhancing the meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Broccoli Beef over steamed jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation. This dish also goes well with a light cucumber salad or a side of Chinese peas to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently stir-fry in a hot pan for a few minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the beef tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli Beef contains roughly 330 calories, with 6g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1484mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken or pork can be used as alternatives. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster than beef. For a vegetarian option, consider tofu or seitan, marinating them in the same sauce.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili oil during the stir-frying process. Alternatively, you can sprinkle red pepper flakes on the finished dish for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can marinate the beef a day ahead. Cooked Broccoli Beef can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to stir-fry just before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).