Craving that satisfying Panda Express Broccoli Beef but don't want to leave the house? This recipe brings the iconic sweet and savory flavors right to your kitchen! It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and healthy. Get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices! This homemade version lets you control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and more flavorful experience.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Beef Sirloin Steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 large head Broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 large Onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
- 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef sirloin with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger. Gently toss to coat and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step helps tenderize the beef and infuse it with flavor, resulting in a much tastier final dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
Step 3: Stir-fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the onions and stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly softened. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked beef to the wok. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coats everything evenly. This is where the magic happens—the sauce clings beautifully to the beef and broccoli.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious homemade Panda Express Broccoli Beef immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. This simple dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend lunch.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Thinly sliced beef: Using thinly sliced beef ensures quick and even cooking. You can ask your butcher to slice it for you, or use a meat mallet to pound it thinner at home.
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli becomes mushy. Aim for tender-crisp florets.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness. For a milder dish, omit them entirely.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors actually deepen when it sits for a bit!
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas.
- Use different protein: Chicken or shrimp can be substituted for the beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion size, but a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This easy, healthy, and delicious Panda Express Broccoli Beef recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and the pride of creating a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen!