Beef & Broccoli Recipe
Beef and broccoli recipe is a classic dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. It’s a favorite in many households and is often found on the menu at Chinese restaurants. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. In this article, we’ll take you through the history of this beloved recipe, the ingredients you’ll need, and the step-by-step instructions to create a mouthwatering beef and broccoli meal.
Brief History of Beef and Broccoli:
Beef and broccoli is a dish that originated in the United States, inspired by Chinese cuisine. It’s believed to have been created by Chinese immigrants who adapted traditional Chinese stir-fry techniques to the ingredients available in the U.S. Broccoli, a vegetable native to Italy, became a popular substitute for Chinese vegetables like gai lan (Chinese broccoli). Over time, beef and broccoli became a staple dish in American Chinese cuisine, beloved for its rich flavors and the satisfying combination of meat and vegetables.
Beef & Broccoli Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Small saucepan (optional, for rice)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Start by slicing the beef into thin strips, against the grain, to ensure tenderness.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the beef slices with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until evenly coated. This will help to tenderize the meat and thicken the sauce.
- Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and beef broth. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef slices to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the broccoli florets and minced garlic, stirring frequently. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the broccoli.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli.
- Stir everything together until the beef and broccoli are evenly coated with the sauce.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
- Pour the slurry into the skillet and stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This should take about 2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Serve the beef and broccoli hot over cooked white rice.
Video
Similar Recipes:
– Chicken and Broccoli: A lighter alternative using chicken breast instead of beef, with the same delicious sauce.
– Shrimp and Broccoli: Swap out the beef for shrimp for a seafood twist on this classic dish.
– Mongolian Beef: A slightly sweeter dish with a rich sauce, often served with green onions instead of broccoli.
– Beef and Snow Peas: A simple stir-fry combining tender beef with crisp snow peas in a savory sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Beef & Broccoli Recipe:
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for the Beef & Broccoli Recipe?
Yes, you can use flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
2. Can I substitute broccoli with another vegetable for the Beef & Broccoli Recipe?
Absolutely! Broccoli can be substituted with snow peas, green beans, or bell peppers.
3. Is Beef & Broccoli Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can replace the beef with tofu or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
5. What kind of rice should I serve with beef and broccoli?
White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice are all great options. You can also serve it with quinoa or noodles.
6. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
7. Is there a way to add more spice to this dish?
You can add red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or chili paste to the sauce for a spicy kick.
8. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but it may cook faster, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Conclusion:
Beef and broccoli is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the savory flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.
YouTube Video Credits:
Cooking With Claudia
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