If you love Chinese food, you'll want to try making beef and broccoli at home. This dish is a classic in Chinese cuisine, and it's easy to make with the right ingredients and tools. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know to make an amazing beef and broccoli recipe that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients Needed to Make Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Before you start cooking, it's important to gather all the ingredients you'll need. Here's a list of what you'll need:
- 1 pound sirloin steak, sliced into thin strips
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- ½ cup beef broth
For the Marinade Beef and Broccoli Recipe
To make the marinade, mix together the cornstarch, soy sauce, rice wine or sherry, brown sugar, salt, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Add the sliced steak to the marinade and stir to coat. Let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
Kitchen Tools Needed Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Here are the kitchen tools you'll need to make beef and broccoli:
- Wok or large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Bowl for marinating
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Now that you have everything you need, it's time to start cooking. Follow these steps:
- Heat the oil in the wok or skillet over high heat. Add the marinated steak and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli.
- Serve hot with rice or noodles.
How to Cook Beef and Broccoli Recipe
To cook beef and broccoli, you'll need to stir-fry the ingredients in a wok or large skillet over high heat. This method cooks the food quickly and evenly, while also preserving the flavor and color of the ingredients.
- Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before you start cooking.
- Cut the steak into thin strips and marinate it for 15-20 minutes in the cornstarch, soy sauce, rice wine or sherry, brown sugar, salt, garlic, and ginger.
- Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Stir-fry the steak for 2-3 minutes until browned, then add the broccoli and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add the beef broth and stir to combine.
- Let the sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes, then serve hot with rice or noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of meat should I use for beef and broccoli?
You can use sirloin steak, flank steak, or beef tenderloin for beef and broccoli. Just make sure to slice the meat thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking, and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
What can I substitute for rice wine or sherry?
You can use apple cider vinegar or white wine as a substitute for rice wine or sherry. Just use the same amount called for in the recipe.
How long does beef and broccoli last in the fridge?
Beef and broccoli will last for 3-4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Can I make beef and broccoli in advance?
Yes, you can make beef and broccoli in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat it before serving, and add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I add other vegetables to beef and broccoli?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to beef and broccoli, such as bell peppers, onions, or snow peas. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces and stir-fry them with the beef and broccoli.
What is the best type of rice to serve with beef and broccoli?
Jasmine rice or long-grain white rice are both good choices to serve with beef and broccoli. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, and fluff it with a fork before serving.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use chicken instead of beef for this recipe. Just make sure to slice the chicken thinly and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make beef and broccoli without a wok?
Yes, you can make beef and broccoli without a wok by using a large skillet or frying pan. Just make sure to heat the pan over high heat before adding the ingredients.
What is the best way to slice the steak?
The best way to slice the steak for beef and broccoli is to cut it against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure that the meat is tender and easy to chew.
Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, you can use low-sodium soy sauce for this recipe if you prefer. Just adjust the amount of salt called for in the recipe accordingly.
How spicy is beef and broccoli?
Beef and broccoli is not usually a spicy dish, but you can add some red pepper flakes or chili oil to make it more flavorful. Just be careful not to add too much spice if you're sensitive to heat.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of beef broth if you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to taste.
What is the best way to reheat beef and broccoli?
The best way to reheat beef and broccoli is to microwave it or heat it up on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I freeze beef and broccoli?
Yes, you can freeze beef and broccoli for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
How do I know when the broccoli is cooked?
The broccoli should be bright green and tender-crisp when it's cooked. You can test it with a fork or a toothpick to see if it's done to your liking.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use a different type of oil for this recipe, such as canola oil or peanut oil. Just make sure to use an oil with a high smoke point that won't burn at high heat.