Do you crave that delicious, saucy beef with broccoli from your favorite Chinese takeout place but want a healthier and more affordable version at home? This Better-Than-Takeout Beef With Broccoli recipe is packed with flavor, quick to make, and leaves you wondering why you didn’t make it sooner! Tender slices of beef, crispy broccoli, and a savory sauce—everything you love about the restaurant version, made fresh and with ingredients you can control. Get ready to add this dish to your weekly rotation!
Why Make Homemade Beef With Broccoli?
There’s something about homemade meals that often surpasses what we get in takeout, and this Beef With Broccoli recipe is no exception. Aside from the satisfaction of preparing a meal from scratch, making this at home means you can use high-quality ingredients, adjust seasoning to your liking, and avoid unhealthy additives like excess sugar or sodium.
Here’s why you should ditch the takeout and whip up this Beef With Broccoli at home:
- Control Over Ingredients: Use fresh, organic beef and broccoli, or swap ingredients if you have dietary preferences.
- Healthier: Say goodbye to the excessive oil and sodium often found in takeout dishes.
- Quick and Easy: In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that rivals any restaurant.
- Budget-Friendly: Preparing this at home will save you money compared to ordering takeout.
Now, let’s dive into how to make this simple yet amazing Better-Than-Takeout Beef With Broccoli recipe.
Ingredients for Better-Than-Takeout Beef With Broccoli
Before starting, gather the following ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Most of these items are pantry staples, so you likely already have them on hand.
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) of flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
For the Broccoli and Sauce:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken sauce)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
- Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish
For Serving:
- Steamed white or brown rice (optional but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain. This ensures your beef remains tender and cooks evenly.
- In a bowl, toss the beef slices with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well to coat the beef, then set aside to marinate for about 10-15 minutes. This not only flavors the beef but also helps to tenderize it.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
- While the beef marinates, steam or blanch the broccoli florets. To steam, place the florets in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 3 minutes. They should be bright green and slightly tender, but still crisp.
- Drain and set the broccoli aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, beef or chicken broth, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Mix the cornstarch and water in a separate bowl to create a slurry that will thicken your sauce later on.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef slices in a single layer. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the beef is browned but still slightly pink in the center. Be careful not to overcook the beef, as it will continue to cook in the sauce later.
- Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Aromatics
- In the same pan, add the minced ginger and garlic. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Pour in the prepared sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
Step 6: Combine and Thicken the Sauce
- Return the seared beef to the pan along with the steamed broccoli.
- Stir everything together to coat the beef and broccoli with the sauce.
- Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly. The sauce will thicken within 1-2 minutes, giving the dish its signature glossy finish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and transfer your Beef With Broccoli to a serving dish.
- Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice, and get ready to enjoy your Better-Than-Takeout Beef With Broccoli!
Tips for Making the Perfect Beef With Broccoli
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Flank steak or sirloin are ideal cuts for this dish because of their tenderness and quick cooking time. Make sure to slice the beef thinly and against the grain to ensure it stays tender.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Stir-frying beef too long can result in a tough texture. Cook it just until it browns on the outside and remains slightly pink inside. It will continue cooking when added to the sauce.
- Steaming vs. Blanching Broccoli: Both methods work well, but steaming retains more nutrients. If you like your broccoli with a bit more crunch, blanching for a shorter time may be preferable.
- Adjust the Heat: If you love a little spice, don’t hesitate to add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha into the sauce for some extra heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can easily swap the beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs. The cooking process remains the same.
What’s the best substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce on hand, you can use hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar to replicate the flavor.
How long will leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers can last for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Beef With Broccoli?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked beef and broccoli (without the rice) for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
What vegetables can I add to this dish?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for variety.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.
Conclusion
This Better-Than-Takeout Beef With Broccoli recipe is your perfect solution for satisfying those takeout cravings with a homemade touch. The tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce create a flavor-packed dish that’s not only quick and easy to make but also healthier and more budget-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will impress every time. So the next time you think about ordering in, remember that you can make a delicious beef with broccoli dish in the comfort of your kitchen!