Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This Broccoli Beef recipe is a weeknight savior, bursting with vibrant flavors and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect example of how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be, even for those with busy schedules. This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag, making it a staple in our quick dinner ideas rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Marinate the Beef:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each slice is coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for even more tender beef.
Stir-fry the Vegetables and Beef:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and bell pepper slices and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender-crisp. Remove the vegetables from the wok and set aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the wok; work in batches if necessary for best results.
- Return the cooked vegetables to the wok. Pour the remaining marinade over the beef and vegetables, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the broccoli beef immediately over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Broccoli Beef:
- Thinly sliced beef is key: This ensures quick cooking and tender results. Use a sharp knife and slice against the grain for the best texture.
- Don't overcrowd the wok: Overcrowding will steam the beef instead of stir-frying it. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of steamed rice and your favorite Asian-inspired vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms.
- Use different protein: Chicken or shrimp can be substituted for the beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
This Broccoli Beef recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It's a simple yet delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights, and a great way to enjoy healthy meals without sacrificing taste. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their repertoire of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. It's truly one of the best recipes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.