Introduction
This delicious beef and broccoli stir-fry is a quick and nutritious meal that combines the savory flavors of lean ground beef with fresh broccoli. Easy to prepare and packed with vibrant colors, this dish will satisfy your cravings while providing a healthy balance of protein and veggies. Ideal for weeknight dinners, it pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making for a comforting and fulfilling meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound lean ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Optional: sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and brown sugar until well combined. Set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add Broccoli
Add the fresh broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir to combine with the beef and onion mixture.
Add Sauce and Simmer
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli mixture. Stir to coat all ingredients evenly.
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Pour this into the skillet and stir well.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the broccoli is tender.
Finish and Serve
Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and stir to combine.
If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes for added heat.
Serve the beef and broccoli over cooked rice or noodles.
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
Heat Level
Red pepper flakes are optional for adding heat. Adjust according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or noodles, which can be prepared alongside the stir-fry.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Sauce
Whisking together sauces and seasonings in a bowl allows the flavors to meld together before adding them to the dish, ensuring an even distribution.
Cooking Ground Beef
Browning ground beef over medium-high heat not only cooks it thoroughly but also creates a rich flavor as the meat caramelizes. Always drain excess fat to keep the dish healthier.
Adding Vegetables
Stir-frying broccoli with cooked meat and onions enhances its color and flavor while ensuring it retains some crunch and nutrients.
Thickening the Sauce
Creating a cornstarch slurry helps to thicken the sauce, giving it a nice, glossy finish that clings to the meat and vegetables perfectly.
Finishing Touches
Drizzling sesame oil at the end of cooking adds a nutty aroma and flavor. Garnishing with red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, and green onions gives added texture and a pop of color.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to taste or incorporate a spicy sauce for extra heat.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
While fresh broccoli is recommended for texture and flavor, you can use frozen broccoli if needed; just adjust the cooking time as required.
What can I serve this dish with?
This beef and broccoli stir-fry pairs well with cooked rice, noodles, or even quinoa.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This beef and broccoli stir-fry is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that showcases the vibrant combination of fresh ingredients and savory sauces. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Vegetarian Option
Substitute lean ground beef with firm tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish. Use the same sauces and cooking method.
Chicken Variation
Replace ground beef with diced chicken breast for a lighter protein option. Adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Quinoa Bowl
Serve the stir-fry over quinoa instead of rice for an extra boost of protein and fiber while maintaining a hearty meal.
Sauce Variations
Experiment with different sauces by adding peanut sauce or teriyaki sauce for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Add More Veggies
Include additional vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to enhance the nutritional value and add a pop of color to your dish.
Meal Prep Option
Make a larger batch of the stir-fry and portion it into meal prep containers for quick meals throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy!
