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A macro shot showcasing the incredible texture of tender beef slices and vibrant green broccoli covered in a glossy, savory sauce. (Beef and Broccoli Recipe)

Authentic Beef and Broccoli Recipe: A 30-Minute Home-Cooked Masterpiece

This authentic Beef and Broccoli Recipe delivers better-than-takeout results in 30 minutes. Learn the secret to ultra-tender beef and a glossy, savory stir-fry sauce that clings to every vibrant broccoli floret. A perfect weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, sliced thinly against the grain (450g)
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (30ml)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (8g)
  • 1 tsp vegetable oil (5ml)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth (120ml)
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (45ml)
  • 2 tbsp packed brown sugar (30g)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil (5ml)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (8g) mixed with 2 tbsp (30ml) cold water
  • 1 large head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets (about 1 lb or 450g)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger (6g)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (30ml)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish (3g)

Equipment

  • 1 Large Wok or Skillet
  • 1 Sharp Chef's Knife
  • 3 Mixing bowls

Method
 

Prepare the Beef and Sauce
  1. Slice and Marinate the Beef: Place steak in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm up. Slice thinly against the grain. In a medium bowl, combine the beef slices, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp vegetable oil. Toss to coat and set aside.
  2. Mix the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, 3 tbsp soy sauce, brown sugar, and toasted sesame oil. In a separate tiny bowl, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water to create the slurry. Keep separate.
Build the Stir-Fry
  1. Cook the Broccoli: Add 1/2 cup of water to a large wok or skillet and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli, cover, and steam for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender and vibrant green. Remove broccoli and drain water from the pan.
  2. Sear the Beef: Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in the empty skillet over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until a brown crust forms. Cook in batches if necessary. Remove beef from the pan.
Finish the Dish
  1. Bloom the Aromatics: Lower heat to medium, add garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Create the Glossy Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring to a simmer. Re-stir the cornstarch slurry and whisk it into the simmering sauce until it thickens and becomes glossy.
  3. Combine and Serve: Return the seared beef and steamed broccoli to the pan. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds.

Notes

Don't Crowd the Pan: Searing the beef in batches is the single best way to ensure it gets a beautiful brown crust instead of steaming.
Prep Everything First (Mise en Place): Stir-frying is a fast process. Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you even turn on the stove.
Thin Slices are Key: Slicing the beef thinly against the grain is non-negotiable for tenderness. The partial freeze trick makes this incredibly easy.