How to Make the Perfect Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Chinese · Medium · 27 min · 3 servings
This classic beef and broccoli stir fry uses flank steak sliced against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness paired with crisp broccoli in a savory umami sauce. It is a far superior version of the takeout classic and provides over 40 grams of protein per serving.
Why this recipe works
This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 27 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 430 calories with 41g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 500 g flank steak thinly sliced against the grain
- 400 g broccoli florets
- 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Beef
Slice the flank steak very thinly against the grain at a slight angle to maximize tenderness, then place it in a bowl with one tablespoon of the soy sauce and let it sit for 10 minutes. This brief marinade helps season the meat and begins to tenderize the fibers.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for exactly 2 minutes until they turn bright green, then transfer immediately to an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain the broccoli well and set it aside ready to add to the wok.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Beef
Heat a wok or large skillet over the highest heat possible until it is smoking, then add one tablespoon of oil and the marinated beef in a single layer. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side without stirring to develop good color, then remove the beef and set aside.
Step 4: Combine and Sauce
In the same hot wok, add a little more oil and cook the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the blanched broccoli and return the beef. Pour in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, toss everything vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes until coated and serve immediately.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- flank steak → skirt steak or flat iron steak
- oyster sauce → hoisin sauce for a slightly sweeter flavor
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Cooking the beef in a pan that is not hot enough which steams rather than sears it resulting in a gray chewy texture
- Overcooking the broccoli until it becomes mushy and loses its vibrant green color and pleasant crunch
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 430 calories, 41g protein, 14g carbs, 22g fat, 4g fiber.
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