Broccoli Beef Recipe

Slice and Marinate

Slice 1 lb flank steak thinly across the grain into bite-sized strips (partially freezing the steak for 20–30 minutes makes this easier). In a bowl combine 2 tbs soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, 1 tsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry) and 1 tsp vegetable oil. Add the sliced beef, toss to coat, and let marinate 15–30 minutes while preparing other components.

Prepare Broccoli

Bring 6 cups water to a boil in a large pot with 1/2 tsp salt. Add 4 cups trimmed broccoli florets and blanch 1 minute until bright green and slightly tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath (or run under cold water) to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.

Prep Aromatics

While the beef marinates and broccoli blanches, mince 3 cloves garlic and 1 tsp fresh ginger and thinly slice 1/2 cup onion (if using).

Make Sauce

In a small bowl whisk together 3 tbs low-sodium soy sauce, 1.5 tbs oyster sauce, 1/2 tsp dark soy sauce (optional), 1 tsp brown sugar and 3 tbs beef or chicken stock (or water). In a separate small cup dissolve 1 tsp cornstarch in 1–2 tbs water to make a slurry and set aside.

Heat Wok or Skillet

Heat a large wok or heavy skillet over high heat until very hot (about 2–3 minutes). Add 1–2 tbs vegetable or peanut oil and swirl to coat.

Cook Beef

Working quickly, add the marinated beef in a single layer (do not overcrowd — cook in two batches if necessary). Stir-fry 1–2 minutes until just browned and mostly cooked through. Remove beef to a plate and keep warm.

Aromatics & Onion

Add another 1/2 tbs oil to the wok if needed. Add sliced onion (if using) and stir-fry 30–45 seconds until slightly softened. Add minced garlic and ginger and stir for 15–20 seconds until fragrant — do not let brown.

Combine Broccoli and Sauce

Return the blanched broccoli to the wok and pour the prepared sauce over. Stir to combine and heat 30–45 seconds. Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir and add it to the wok, stirring constantly. Cook 30–60 seconds more until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, coating the broccoli.

Finish

Return the cooked beef (and any accumulated juices) to the wok, tossing everything together to heat through and coat with sauce, about 30–60 seconds. Drizzle 1/2 tsp sesame oil over the dish, toss once, then remove from heat.

Transfer Broccoli Beef to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately with steamed white rice or fried rice.