Beef and Broccoli with Rice Recipe

 When it comes to quick, satisfying meals that pack a flavorful punch, beef and broccoli with rice is a dish that checks all the boxes. This classic dish features tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce that ties it all together. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve when you’re entertaining. The best part? It’s easy to customize, and you can have it on the table in under 30 minutes. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:

For the Beef and Broccoli:

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 4 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium works best)
• 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water to form a slurry
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Rice:

• 1 ½ cups jasmine or long-grain white rice
• 3 cups water or broth
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious beef and broccoli stir fry that’ll rival your favorite takeout.

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
2. Add the rice, water (or broth for extra flavor), and a pinch of salt to a medium pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and keep it covered until ready to serve.

Step 2: Prep the Ingredients

• Thinly slice the beef and set aside.
• Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Drain immediately and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
2. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and mix until smooth. This will help thicken the sauce later.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Broccoli and Aromatics

1. Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the same pan.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Be careful not to burn them.
3. Toss in the broccoli and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked beef to the pan and pour the prepared sauce over the mixture.
2. Stir everything together, letting the sauce come to a simmer and thicken, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and serve immediately over the cooked rice.

Cooking Time and Serving Size

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Tips for Customization

• Swap the protein: If beef isn't your favorite, you can substitute it with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrients.
• Adjust the sauce: For a sweeter flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon of honey or brown sugar. Like it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Make it lighter: Serve with cauliflower rice or steamed brown rice for a healthier twist.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~400 (including rice)
• Protein: ~28g
• Carbs: ~41g
• Fat: ~14g

Beef and broccoli with rice is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to dinners. Time to grab your chopsticks and dig in!