Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Beef and Sauce
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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
- Bloom the Aromatics: Lower heat to medium, add garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
