If you have ever craved a dish that perfectly balances tender, juicy beef with crisp, vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, then this Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is just what you need. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that brings together simple, fresh ingredients to deliver layers of flavor and texture, making it not only comforting but also energizing and bright to the palate. This stir fry is an ideal weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without the fuss, capturing the essence of classic Asian takeout right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish come to life. Each component plays a crucial role: the beef provides hearty flavor and protein, the broccoli adds vibrant color and crunch, and the sauce delivers that irresistible savory-sweet punch. Together, they create a harmonious stir fry that’s both nourishing and delicious.
- Beef Flank Steak or steak tip (1 – 1.2 lb, thin sliced): Choose a good-quality cut to ensure tenderness and rich beef flavor in every bite.
- Cooking oil (1/4 cup, divided): Essential for stir-frying to get that perfect sear and cook your ingredients evenly.
- Broccoli (1/2 head, about 1 heaping cup): Provides a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and a burst of green color.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Adds aromatic depth that wakes up your taste buds before the main flavors hit.
- Coconut aminos (2-3 tbsp for marinade + 1/3 cup for sauce): A savory, slightly sweet umami alternative to soy sauce that keeps the recipe gluten-free.
- Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Tenderizes the beef, making it juicy and soft without losing texture.
- Arrowroot flour (1 tbsp for marinade + 1/2 tbsp for sauce): Helps thicken the sauce naturally and enhances the coating around the beef.
- Carrot slices (1/3 cup, optional): Adds sweetness and an extra pop of color to brighten the dish.
- Red bell pepper slices (1/4 cup, optional): Offers crunch and a mild peppery flavor to balance the richness of the beef.
- Water or beef stock (1/4 cup): Forms the base of the sauce, delivering moisture and a lush consistency.
- Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle tang that lifts the entire stir fry.
- Sesame oil (2 tsp): Finishes the dish with a wonderfully nutty aroma and richness.
How to Make Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the flank steak into medium-thin strips, which helps the beef cook quickly and evenly. The thin slices allow the marinade to penetrate deeply, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor and tenderness. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts and easier cooking.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Next, marinate your sliced beef with 2 to 3 tablespoons of coconut aminos, the baking soda, and 1 tablespoon of arrowroot flour. This combination not only imparts flavor but also tenderizes the meat beautifully. Let the beef rest for at least 30 minutes so the marinade can work its magic, transforming each piece into melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Step 3: Mix the Stir Fry Sauce
While the beef marinates, mix up your stir fry sauce in a small bowl by combining the remaining coconut aminos, water or beef stock, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the extra 1/2 tablespoon of arrowroot flour. This sauce is the heart of the dish, melding everything together with its perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Veggies
Heat half of your cooking oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and stir until fragrant — this quick step releases those wonderful aromas that make your kitchen smell like a restaurant. Add the broccoli and carrot slices, cooking until they are tender but still crisp. If using, add the red bell pepper slices last because they cook faster and add a lovely crunch and bright color.
Step 5: Cook the Beef
Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, then add the remaining oil and beef strips in a single layer. Let the beef sear without moving it too much, allowing a golden crust to develop. Once browned, lower the heat and pour the prepared stir fry sauce over the beef and veggies. Stir everything together until the sauce thickens and evenly coats every luscious piece.
How to Serve Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions over the top. These simple garnishes add an eye-catching finish and a pop of flavor that perfectly complements the bold stir fry.
Side Dishes
This stir fry shines when served over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice, soaking up all those delicious juices. If you want to mix it up, try pairing the beef and broccoli with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option that still delivers on texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the dish in lettuce cups or wrap it in warm tortillas for an Asian-inspired taco experience. You can also pile it onto noodles for a hearty bowl or layer it over a simple mixed green salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld and deepen overnight, making your next meal even more delicious.
Freezing
While the veggies might become a bit softer after freezing, you can still freeze the stir fry for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, and be sure to cool the stir fry completely before freezing to maintain quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce and prevent dryness. Stir occasionally until warmed through and enjoy a speedy meal that tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir fry?
Absolutely! While flank steak is preferred for its tenderness and quick cooking, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin tip as long as it’s sliced thinly against the grain. This ensures the beef remains tender and flavorful.
What can I substitute for coconut aminos?
If you don’t have coconut aminos, tamari or regular soy sauce are good alternatives. Keep in mind these can be saltier, so adjust the amount to taste to avoid overpowering the dish.
Is it necessary to marinate the beef for 30 minutes?
Marinating is highly recommended because it tenderizes the beef and infuses it with flavor. However, if you’re short on time, even 15 minutes can make a difference.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?
Definitely! Feel free to add snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn to customize your dish. Just be mindful of cooking times so all veggies stay crisp and fresh.
How do I make the sauce thicker if needed?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, whisk an additional 1/2 teaspoon of arrowroot flour or cornstarch into a small amount of cold water and stir it into the pan. Cook for a minute or two until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe enough if you want a fast, flavorful meal that feels like a treat every time. With simple ingredients, easy prep, and rich, balanced flavors, it’s an absolute winner for family dinners or whenever a craving for comforting Asian flavors hits. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to recipes!
Print
Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus 30 minutes marinating time
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender flank steak marinated with coconut aminos and arrowroot flour, stir-fried with crisp broccoli and optional colorful veggies. The savory sauce offers a perfect balance of umami, tanginess, and sesame aroma, making it an ideal weeknight meal served over rice.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 1 – 1.2 lb Beef Flank Steak or steak tip, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp cooking oil (for stir-frying)
- 2–3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp arrowroot flour
Vegetables
- 1/2 head broccoli (~1 heaping cup), cut into florets
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup carrot slices (optional)
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper slices (optional)
Sauce
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos
- 1/4 cup water or beef stock
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tbsp arrowroot flour
- 1/4 cup cooking oil (for stir-frying vegetables and beef)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Cut the flank steak into medium-thin strips, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine the beef strips with 2-3 tablespoons of coconut aminos, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 tablespoon arrowroot flour. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Mix the stir fry sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup coconut aminos, 1/4 cup water or beef stock, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, and 1/2 tablespoon arrowroot flour. Set the sauce aside for later.
- Sauté garlic and vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and carrot slices, cooking them until they begin to soften but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the red bell pepper slices (if using) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Cook the beef: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the marinated beef strips to the cleared side and sear them until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side, reducing heat if necessary to avoid burning.
- Combine and coat with sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared stir fry sauce over the cooked beef and vegetables. Stir everything together thoroughly, allowing the sauce to thicken and evenly coat all ingredients, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the beef and broccoli stir fry hot over steamed rice. Garnish optionally with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Marinating the beef with baking soda tenderizes the meat, ensuring a soft texture.
- Arrowroot flour is used as a gluten-free thickener and to give the beef a light velvety coating.
- Vegetables like carrots and bell peppers add color and sweetness but can be omitted or substituted based on preference.
- Use coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative to soy sauce.
- Ensure heat is high enough when searing beef to get a good sear but not so hot that garlic burns.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
