Better Than Takeout Beef and Broccoli with Tender Beef Tips
Better Than Takeout Beef and Broccoli with Tender Beef Tips
Craving that classic Chinese takeout flavor but want something healthier and more delicious? This homemade Beef and Broccoli recipe delivers tender, succulent beef tips paired with crisp broccoli florets, all smothered in a savory sauce that’s truly better than anything you’ll get from a restaurant. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy stir-fry will become your new weeknight favorite!
What makes this recipe stand out is our secret technique for achieving incredibly tender beef and a perfectly balanced sauce that clings beautifully to every ingredient. No more soggy vegetables or tough meat – just restaurant-quality results right from your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb beef sirloin tips or flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For the Stir-Fry:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, brown sugar, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat all pieces, then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. This ensures your sauce will thicken nicely during cooking.
Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a pot of water to boil and blanch the broccoli florets for 2 minutes until bright green but still crisp. Drain and set aside. This step ensures perfectly cooked broccoli that’s tender but still has bite.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but not cooked through. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the same pan. Stir-fry the sliced onion for 1 minute, then add the blanched broccoli. Cook for another 2 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 6: Combine and Sauce
Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats all ingredients beautifully.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot over steamed rice. Enjoy your homemade takeout-style meal!
Expert Tips
Choosing the Right Beef
For the most tender results, choose sirloin tips or flank steak and be sure to slice against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers and ensures each bite melts in your mouth.
Slicing Technique
Partially freeze your beef for 30 minutes before slicing – this makes it easier to achieve thin, uniform slices that cook evenly.
Sauce Consistency
If your sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce. For a thicker sauce, let it reduce for an extra minute.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free. Many brands now offer gluten-free versions.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Thaw frozen broccoli first and pat dry to remove excess moisture. You may need to reduce cooking time slightly.
What’s the best rice to serve with this?
Jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce, but brown rice or cauliflower rice work great for a healthier option.
This Beef and Broccoli recipe truly delivers on its promise – tender beef, perfectly cooked broccoli, and a sauce that will have you saying goodbye to takeout forever. Give it a try tonight and taste the difference homemade makes!
Better Than Takeout Beef and Broccoli with Tender Beef Tips
Ingredients
Method
- Marinate the beef by combining sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, brown sugar, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce by whisking together all sauce ingredients until cornstarch is completely dissolved.
- Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green but still crisp, then drain and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in large wok or skillet over high heat. Add marinated beef and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but not cooked through, then remove from pan.
- Add remaining oil to same pan and stir-fry sliced onion for 1 minute, then add blanched broccoli and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Return beef to pan with vegetables, pour sauce over everything and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot over steamed rice.
