Quick & Easy Weeknight Sesame Beef & Broccoli

Quick & Easy Weeknight Sesame Beef & Broccoli

Tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Craving something flavorful and satisfying but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This sesame beef and broccoli recipe is your answer. It's packed with protein, loaded with crisp-tender broccoli, and coated in a luscious, sticky-sweet garlic and ginger sauce. Think of it as your favorite takeout, but healthier and homemade.

The Secret to Perfect Sear

Let's talk about searing that beef. It's crucial for that delicious, browned flavor. High heat is your friend here. Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, and make sure it's nice and hot before adding the beef. But here is the key: don't marinate the meat in the sauce! Instead, toss the beef strips with a generous pinch of salt and let it rest while you prep the rest. This will dry out the meat slightly and allow it to develop a beautiful crust.

Make It Your Own Sauce

One of the beauties of this recipe is its flexibility. The sauce is your canvas – tweak it to your preference! Want it sweeter? Add a touch more brown sugar. Prefer a tangier flavor? A splash of rice vinegar will do the trick. But here's the must-keep: don't skimp on the cornstarch. It's what gives the sauce that amazing, glossy, thick consistency.

Don't Forget the Veggies!

While the beef is the star, let's not forget the supporting cast: the broccoli! You want it tender-crisp, not mushy. A quick stir-fry in the same pan you used for the beef is all it takes. And feel free to experiment – mushrooms, peppers, or snow peas would all be welcome additions.

Vegan Option

Love the flavors but not the meat? Swap the beef for sliced tempeh! Just make sure to marinate your tempeh in the sauce before cooking it to help it absorb more of that delicious flavor.

Let's Get Cooking:

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced

• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced

• 1 inch knob fresh ginger, grated or sliced

• 1.5 cups uncooked rice, or cauliflower rice

• Thinly sliced green onions for serving

• For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
  • 1 tbsp sambal oelek (or sriracha)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Prep the Beef: Freeze the beef for 30 minutes for easier slicing. Slice thinly against the grain. Toss with a pinch of salt and let rest.
2. Make the Sauce: Whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
3. Cook the Rice: Cook rice according to package directions.
4. Sear the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil, then add the beef in a single layer. Let it sear for 1-2 minutes per side, until browned and yummy. Remove the beef from the pan.
5. Stir Fry the Broccoli: Add a bit more oil to the same pan. Add broccoli and stir fry for 2-3 minutes, until bright green. You can add a splash of water to steam it slightly. Remove broccoli from pan.
6. Finish the Dish: Turn the heat down and let the pan cool slightly. Add a bit of oil then add ginger and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add the sauce, and stir until thick. Add the beef and broccoli back in. Toss gently to coat.
7. Serve: Serve hot over rice, garnished with green onions.

Tips and Tricks:

• For extra crispy beef: Toss the beef in a bit of cornstarch before searing.
• Spice it up: Add an extra pinch of chili flakes to the sauce.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the beef in batches to ensure proper browning.
• Add a bit of citrus: A touch of orange zest brightens the flavors.

This recipe isn't just about food; it's about creating moments. Gather your family, get cooking, and enjoy this saucy, savory sesame beef and broccoli that will make any night feel like a special occasion.