Growing up, I can’t tell you how many times I scribbled down my mom’s grocery list, longing for Friday nights when we’d whip up our favorite Chinese takeout. One dish that always made it to the table was beef and broccoli.
It’s one of those comforting meals that brings back memories of sharing laughter and stories as we gathered around steaming bowls of rice. Fast forward to today, I’ve perfected my own take on this classic, and let me tell you, the aroma of this dish wafting through your kitchen will have everyone lining up for a taste.
Beef Broccoli is a beloved dish that combines tender strips of beef with crunchy broccoli florets, all enveloped in a savory sauce that leaves you wanting more. It’s commonly found in Chinese restaurants everywhere and holds a special place in many hearts due to its simplicity and flavor.
My approach to this recipe emphasizes fresh, authentic tastes—perfectly suited for busy weeknights yet fancy enough for a dinner party.
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What is authentic beef broccoli recipe?
At its core, authentic Beef Broccoli is a stir-fry dish featuring thinly sliced beef and vibrant broccoli, tossed together in a flavorful sauce often comprised of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and seasonings. The beauty lies in the balance of protein and vegetables, delivering not only taste but also nutrition in every bite. It’s a dish that showcases the skill of quick cooking while celebrating wholesome ingredients.
How Does It Taste Like?
The flavor profile of Beef Broccoli is a delightful mix of savory and slightly sweet notes. The beef brings a deep umami richness, while the broccoli contributes a fresh, earthy crunch. Garlic and ginger provide an aromatic punch, elevating the overall experience. Every bite harmonizes beautifully—satisfying without being heavy, making it a fantastic dinner option.
Why You’ll Love this?
You will love this Beef Broccoli recipe because it offers convenience and authenticity. It comes together quickly—perfect for those bustling weeknights when time is limited but flavor is still a priority. The fresh ingredients ensure every bite feels wholesome, and the ability to customize to your taste adds a personal touch. Plus, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser!
The Ingredients
Stir-Fry Ingredients
– 12 oz beef (for a vegetarian alternative, substitute with sturdy vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini)
– 1 lb broccoli (cut into bite-sized florets)
– 1 carrot, thinly sliced
– 1 piece of fresh ginger, minced
– 1 scallion, chopped diagonally
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoons cooking oil
– 1 pinch kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (adds a zesty pop)
Marinade Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon baking soda (or you may physically tenderize your meat)
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 0.25 teaspoon white pepper
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon cooking wine (Chardonnay works well)
– 1 tablespoon cooking oil
Sauce Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon light soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1 tablespoon cooking wine
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 0.25 teaspoon white pepper
Ingredients From : madewithlau.com
How to make authentic beef broccoli recipe?
Cooking this delicious Beef Broccoli doesn’t require a culinary degree; just follow these simple steps. Get your ingredients prepped and ready, and we’ll dive into the cooking process!
Step 1: Cut and Wash the Beef
Start by identifying the grain of the beef. Slicing against it is crucial, as it helps keep the meat tender. Aim for slices thick enough to maintain structure, around a quarter inch. Next, place your beef in a bowl of water to wash away any residual blood—this is essential to avoid a gray tinge in your final dish. Gently knead the meat in the water, then transfer it to a strainer to drain thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a separate bowl, mix a teaspoon of baking soda with the beef. This is a classic Chinese technique to enhance tenderness. To this, add the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, water, cornstarch, white pepper, sugar, cooking wine, and a drizzle of cooking oil. Stir until you have a smooth marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Introduce your sliced beef to this marinade and massage it well to ensure every piece is coated. Let the beef sit for about 30 minutes. This resting time is crucial for allowing the flavors to penetrate and the meat to tenderize.
Step 4: Cut the Vegetables
While the beef is marinating, get on with the veggies. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, ensuring the main stems are included, as they are delicious and nutritious. Slice the carrot into thin slivers, allowing for a colorful presentation. Chop the ginger and scallions, then mince the garlic finely. Gather your ingredients together so they’re ready to go.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: oyster sauce, light and dark soy sauces, water, cooking wine, sugar, cornstarch, and white pepper. This should be well mixed until uniform.
Step 6: Blanch the Broccoli
Fill a medium pot with water, bring it to a boil, then add a splash of oil and a pinch of salt. This ensures your broccoli retains that vibrant green color. Cook the florets for about 2 minutes for a nice crunch, or longer if you prefer a softer texture. Drain and rinse with cool water if you’re not cooking them immediately to stop the cooking process.
Step 7: Cook the Beef
Take the marinated beef and drizzle on some cooking oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Heat your wok over high heat, adding cooking oil to coat the surface. Once hot, introduce the beef and cook for about 30 to 60 seconds, browning the meat. Flip each piece until mostly cooked through but still a bit red inside. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
Step 8: Stir-Fry Vegetables
In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 20 to 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the scallions and carrot slices, cooking for another half a minute. Finally, introduce the blanched broccoli, and give everything a nice stir. Cook for another 30 to 40 seconds to warm through.
Step 9: Combine the Beef and Sauce
Now, return the beef to the stir-fry mix. Combine everything well and cook for an additional 30 to 45 seconds. If your broccoli has absorbed all the liquid, feel free to add a tablespoon of water to the mix for moisture.
Step 10: Finish with Sauce and Serve
Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and mix continuously for about a minute. Drizzle in the sesame oil and toss everything to coat the veggies and beef nicely. For that restaurant-quality finish, you might add a touch more oil to make it glisten beautifully. Taste to adjust seasoning, then serve warm!
Tips On Making authentic beef broccoli recipe
– Use flank steak or sirloin for the best texture; they’re both lean and tender.
– Marinate for at least 30 minutes but don’t exceed 1 hour to prevent the meat from becoming too tender.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef; if needed, cook in batches.
– Blanch the broccoli before stir-frying for a vibrant color and texture.
– Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Storage Tips
Once your Beef Broccoli has cooled, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure to do so within 24 hours for optimal freshness. Just reheat gently in a pan or microwave. To keep the broccoli from getting mushy, avoid repetitive heating.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve with rice: Steamed white or brown rice perfectly complements the dish and sops up that delicious sauce.
– Pair with noodles: Thin rice noodles add a delightful twist, enveloping the flavors and adding some extra heft.
– Add sesame seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for crunch and flavor.
– Include a side salad: A refreshing cucumber or mixed green salad can balance the meal beautifully.
– Try it with egg rolls: For a heartier meal, serve some crispy egg rolls on the side.
What other substitute can I use in authentic beef broccoli recipe?
– Chicken: Swap beef for chicken breast, cut into thin slices for a lighter protein option.
– Tofu: Firm tofu makes for a great vegetarian alternative; just ensure it’s pressed to remove excess moisture.
– Mushrooms: Increase the umami factor by adding sliced mushrooms like shiitake or cremini.
– Cauliflower: For a low-carb option, replace broccoli with cauliflower florets; they still provide a wonderful crunch!
– Bell Peppers: For more color and sweetness, add sliced bell peppers to the vegetable mix.
Conclusion
Cooking Beef Broccoli at home is not just achievable but incredibly satisfying. The taste, combined with the feeling of creating a beloved family meal, is genuinely rewarding. With fresh ingredients, little prep time, and your newfound skills, you’ll soon find this dish becoming a staple in your kitchen, impressing everyone you serve.
Whether it’s a regular weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this Beef Broccoli will shine. Happy cooking!
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Description
Beef Broccoli is a beloved dish that combines tender strips of beef with crunchy broccoli florets, all enveloped in a savory sauce that leaves you wanting more. It's commonly found in Chinese restaurants everywhere and holds a special place in many hearts due to its simplicity and flavor.
Ingredients
Stir-Fry Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Cut and Wash the Beef
-
Start by identifying the grain of the beef. Slicing against it is crucial, as it helps keep the meat tender. Aim for slices thick enough to maintain structure, around a quarter inch. Next, place your beef in a bowl of water to wash away any residual blood—this is essential to avoid a gray tinge in your final dish. Gently knead the meat in the water, then transfer it to a strainer to drain thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
-
In a separate bowl, mix a teaspoon of baking soda with the beef. This is a classic Chinese technique to enhance tenderness. To this, add the oyster sauce, light soy sauce, water, cornstarch, white pepper, sugar, cooking wine, and a drizzle of cooking oil. Stir until you have a smooth marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
-
Introduce your sliced beef to this marinade and massage it well to ensure every piece is coated. Let the beef sit for about 30 minutes. This resting time is crucial for allowing the flavors to penetrate and the meat to tenderize.
Step 4: Cut the Vegetables
-
While the beef is marinating, get on with the veggies. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized pieces, ensuring the main stems are included, as they are delicious and nutritious. Slice the carrot into thin slivers, allowing for a colorful presentation. Chop the ginger and scallions, then mince the garlic finely. Gather your ingredients together so they’re ready to go.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
-
In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: oyster sauce, light and dark soy sauces, water, cooking wine, sugar, cornstarch, and white pepper. This should be well mixed until uniform.
Step 6: Blanch the Broccoli
-
Fill a medium pot with water, bring it to a boil, then add a splash of oil and a pinch of salt. This ensures your broccoli retains that vibrant green color. Cook the florets for about 2 minutes for a nice crunch, or longer if you prefer a softer texture. Drain and rinse with cool water if you’re not cooking them immediately to stop the cooking process.
Step 7: Cook the Beef
-
Take the marinated beef and drizzle on some cooking oil, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Heat your wok over high heat, adding cooking oil to coat the surface. Once hot, introduce the beef and cook for about 30 to 60 seconds, browning the meat. Flip each piece until mostly cooked through but still a bit red inside. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
Step 8: Stir-Fry Vegetables
-
In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 20 to 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the scallions and carrot slices, cooking for another half a minute. Finally, introduce the blanched broccoli, and give everything a nice stir. Cook for another 30 to 40 seconds to warm through.
Step 9: Combine the Beef and Sauce
-
Now, return the beef to the stir-fry mix. Combine everything well and cook for an additional 30 to 45 seconds. If your broccoli has absorbed all the liquid, feel free to add a tablespoon of water to the mix for moisture.
Step 10: Finish with Sauce and Serve
-
Pour the sauce over the stir-fry and mix continuously for about a minute. Drizzle in the sesame oil and toss everything to coat the veggies and beef nicely. For that restaurant-quality finish, you might add a touch more oil to make it glisten beautifully. Taste to adjust seasoning, then serve warm!
Note
- Use flank steak or sirloin for the best texture; they’re both lean and tender.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes but don’t exceed 1 hour to prevent the meat from becoming too tender.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef; if needed, cook in batches.
- Blanch the broccoli before stir-frying for a vibrant color and texture.
- Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
