Beef & Broccoli

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain

• 1 Tbsp cornstarch

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1 Tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp oil (vegetable or canola)

• 1 tsp ginger & garlic, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup chicken or beef broth

• 2 Tbsp soy sauce

• 1 Tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp dark soy sauce (for color and a slightly deeper flavor)

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 2 Tbsp brown sugar

• A pinch of white pepper, to taste

• Optional: 2 Tbsp Shaoxing wine (for authentic flavor)

• Cornstarch slurry (2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 Tbsp water) to thicken the sauce

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched

• Oil for stir-frying

Cooking Steps

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

• Prepare the Beef: Start by slicing your flank steak into thin strips, making sure to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness.

• Combine Marinade Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the cornstarch, baking soda, oyster sauce, soy sauce, oil, and minced ginger and garlic. Add the beef slices to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour, if time allows. This process tenderizes the beef and infuses it with flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

• Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken or beef broth, soy sauces, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and white pepper. If using, add the Shaoxing wine here. This mixture will create a rich, savory sauce for our stir-fry.

• Thicken with Cornstarch Slurry: Prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Set aside for later use to thicken the sauce.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

• Blanch Broccoli: In boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 2 minutes until they're bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside. This step ensures the broccoli is perfectly cooked and retains its vibrant color.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef

• Heat the Pan: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until it's shimmering but not smoking.

• Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef in a single layer, allowing it to sear and brown without stirring for about 1-2 minutes. Then stir-fry the beef until it's nearly cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

• Cook the Broccoli: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and stir-fry the blanched broccoli for about a minute.

• Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the broccoli and bring to a simmer. Add the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

• Return the Beef: Add the cooked beef back into the pan. Stir everything together to ensure the beef and broccoli are well-coated with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

• Final Taste Test: Adjust seasoning if necessary, and then remove from heat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your succulent Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry hot over a bed of steamed rice. This dish promises a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.

With these simple steps, you can create a dish that's not only satisfying but also brings a piece of Asian culinary tradition into your home. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!