A quick and easy beef and broccoli stir fry recipe packed with flavor. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes!
What is Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry?
Beef and broccoli stir fry is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, featuring tender beef slices and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. It’s known for its rich umami flavor, complemented by soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This meal is both nutritious and delicious, making it a favorite among stir-fry lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein and fiber.
- Customizable – Adjust seasonings and ingredients to taste.
- Great for Meal Prep – Stores well for leftovers.
- Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Stir Fry:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
1. Prepare the Beef
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
- In a bowl, mix beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Cook the Broccoli
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok over medium heat.
- Add broccoli and bell pepper; stir-fry for 3 minutes.
- Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef
- Add 1 tbsp oil to the wok.
- Stir-fry the beef until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce
- In the same wok, sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds.
- Add beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened.
5. Combine Everything
- Return beef and vegetables to the wok.
- Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
- Cook for 2 more minutes and serve.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water.
Variations & Substitutions
- Protein Options: Swap beef for chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
- Vegetable Variations: Add carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Best Pairings for Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Garlic noodles
- Egg-fried rice
- Cucumber salad
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is homemade beef and broccoli good for?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
When cooking stir-fry, do you cook the meat or vegetables first?
Cook the meat first, remove it, then stir-fry the vegetables.
What does beef and broccoli contain?
It typically includes beef, broccoli, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a thickening agent.
What are three important steps to a good stir-fry?
- High Heat Cooking – Ensures quick cooking and prevents sogginess.
- Marinate the Meat – Enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Cook in Batches – Prevents overcrowding and uneven cooking.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Serve in a deep bowl with chopsticks for an authentic look.
- Add a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.
Suggested Recipes
For more savory recipes you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here.