Go Back
Better Than Takeout Beef and Broccoli
Jenna Parker

Better Than Takeout Beef and Broccoli

Tender velveted beef and crisp broccoli in a glossy, savory sauce. Ready in 20 minutes—faster and healthier than delivery.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Calories: 365
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against grain
  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (for marinade)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (for marinade)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda (optional, for tenderizing)
  • 0.33 cup low-sodium soy sauce (for sauce)
  • 0.25 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
  • 1 lb broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil (avocado, vegetable, or canola)
  • sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • Wok or Large Skillet preferably carbon steel or cast iron
  • Mixing bowls
  • Instant-Read Thermometer (optional) for checking beef doneness

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine sliced beef with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp cornstarch, sesame oil, and baking soda (if using). Mix well and let marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup soy sauce, broth, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
  3. Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to an ice bath. Drain and set aside.
  4. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tbsp oil. Add beef in a single layer, sear 1 minute undisturbed, then stir-fry 1-2 minutes until just cooked. Remove beef.
  5. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the pan. Add broccoli and stir-fry 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  6. Return beef to pan. Pour sauce over everything and bring to a simmer. Add cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly until sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
  7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice.

Notes

For the most tender beef, slice against the grain and don't overcook. If you prefer extra crisp broccoli, skip the blanching and stir-fry raw with a splash of water, covering briefly to steam.