Craving takeout but don't want the hefty price tag or the long wait? This Trader Joe's Beef and Broccoli recipe delivers all the deliciousness of your favorite Chinese restaurant, but in the comfort of your own home and in a fraction of the time. This easy recipe uses readily available ingredients from Trader Joe's, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution. Get ready for a healthy and flavorful meal that's surprisingly simple to make!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Trader Joe's Beef Stir-Fry Strips
- 1 tbsp Trader Joe's Ginger Garlic Sauce
- 2 tbsp Trader Joe's Soy Sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper (optional), thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ginger garlic sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
Cook the beef:
- Heat the sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
Add the veggies:
- Add the broccoli florets and red bell pepper (if using) to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for another minute until fragrant.
Combine everything:
- Return the beef to the wok. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Serve and enjoy:
- Serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
Tips for the Best Trader Joe's Beef and Broccoli:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of beef or vegetables, cook them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the sauce to your taste: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. For a saltier sauce, add more soy sauce.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delicious kick to this dish.
- Use fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli will have the best flavor and texture.
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 time accordingly.
- Make it a complete meal: Add some cooked noodles or quinoa for a heartier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a balanced meal, rich in protein and fiber, relatively low in fat and high in vitamins. The nutritional information varies based on the specific ingredients used and serving size, so always check the nutritional facts of each individual item. A general estimate for a single serving is approximately 350-450 calories, depending on the portion size and added ingredients.
This Trader Joe's Beef and Broccoli recipe is a fantastic example of how quick and easy homemade cooking can be. It's a delicious and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights, and it showcases the convenience and quality of Trader Joe's products. Enjoy!