Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is full of vibrant flavors and rich textures. The beef marinates in a savory mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and cornstarch, making it tender and flavorful. The broccoli is cooked to perfection, still crisp and bright green, providing a nice contrast to the beef. The stir-fry sauce is the star, combining oyster sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper for a well-rounded, satisfying finish. Whether served with steamed rice or noodles, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade & Broccoli:

• 1 lb beef (tender cut)
• 3-4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• Oil (for cooking meat)

For the Stir-Fry Sauce:

• 1/4 cup oyster sauce
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef Marinade:
   • Thinly slice the beef against the grain. In a bowl, combine the beef with 1 tablespoon of low sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, cornstarch, black pepper, and baking soda. Mix well to coat the beef, then let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.
2. Cook the Broccoli:
   • While the beef is marinating, bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and become tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Stir-Fry Sauce:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, water, cornstarch, brown sugar, and black pepper. Set the sauce aside.
4. Cook the Beef:
   • Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
5. Stir-Fry the Broccoli:
   • In the same pan, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the cooked broccoli and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to heat it through.
6. Combine and Serve:
   • Return the cooked beef to the pan with the broccoli. Stir in the stir-fry sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and broccoli evenly. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from the heat.
7. Serve:
   • Serve the Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry over steamed rice or noodles, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is around 15 minutes, with an additional 15-20 minutes for marinating the beef. Cooking time will take about 10-15 minutes, so expect a total time of 30-40 minutes.

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: You can add other vegetables to the stir-fry such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for more color and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add some chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the stir-fry sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
• Protein Alternatives: You can substitute the beef with chicken, tofu, or even shrimp for different protein options.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a little water to thin it out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes, you can use other tender cuts of beef such as flank steak or sirloin. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.

Can I make this dish without oyster sauce?

Yes, you can substitute the oyster sauce with a vegan alternative or use hoisin sauce for a similar sweet and savory flavor.

How do I make the beef more tender?

Marinating the beef with cornstarch and baking soda helps tenderize it. Be sure to slice the beef thinly and against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is preferred for the best texture, but frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before using.

Can I make this stir fry in advance?

You can prepare the beef and broccoli ahead of time, but it’s best to stir-fry the dish just before serving to maintain the best texture.

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low sodium?

Yes, but keep in mind that regular soy sauce will add more salt to the dish. Adjust the amount of soy sauce in the stir-fry sauce to suit your taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicier stir fry, add some chili paste or fresh chopped chilies to the stir-fry sauce or stir in some red pepper flakes.

What can I serve this dish with?

Beef and broccoli stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, noodles, or even quinoa for a more nutritious base.

Can I make this stir fry gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce, and this dish can easily be made gluten-free.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make it even healthier, use less oil for cooking, add more vegetables, and serve it over a base like cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Conclusion

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a classic, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory stir-fry sauce, it’s a well-balanced, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you enjoy it with rice or noodles, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a great addition to your dinner rotation. Enjoy!

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