Beef and broccoli is a good dinner to keep in your back pocket when you want something fast but do not feel like ordering takeout. The ingredients are simple, the sauce comes together in one bowl, and the whole meal can be ready in about 30 minutes.
The key is cooking the beef quickly over fairly high heat. Thin slices cook fast and stay tender. The broccoli only needs a few minutes, so it keeps some bite instead of turning soft.
How to get tender beef
Look at the lines running through the steak and slice across them, not in the same direction. That one small step makes a noticeable difference. If the steak is hard to slice thinly, put it in the freezer for about 20 minutes first.
A simple homemade sauce
The sauce is made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and water. It is savory with a little sweetness, and the cornstarch helps it cling to the meat and vegetables.
Use low-sodium soy sauce if you have it. You can always add more salt later, but it is hard to fix a sauce that starts too salty.
What to serve with it
White rice is the easiest choice. Brown rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice also work. If you like extra vegetables, sliced bell peppers or mushrooms can go into the skillet with the broccoli.
Quick Beef and Broccoli
Tender beef and broccoli in a simple savory sauce, ready in about 30 minutes.
Cook: 15 mins
Total: 30 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Whisk the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and water in a small bowl.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove it to a plate.
- Add the remaining oil and broccoli. Cook for 3 minutes, then add 2 tablespoons of water and cover for 2 minutes.
- Return the beef to the skillet. Pour in the sauce and stir well.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli. Serve with rice.
Helpful Notes
- Slice the beef against the grain for a more tender bite.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet. Cook the beef in two batches if needed.
- For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a small spoon of chili sauce.
