If you’re craving that perfectly balanced, tender, and flavorful stir fry that bursts with vibrant greens and mouthwatering beef, you’ve found it! This Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe brings together succulent thin slices of flank steak and crisp broccoli florets coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that’s bursting with umami. Whether you’re new to stir-fries or a seasoned pro, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate and is ready in just about 25 minutes, making it your new go-to for a delicious, hassle-free meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients for this recipe is simple but essential. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, perfect texture, and a beautiful balance of color on your plate.
- Beef Flank Steak or steak tip (1 to 1.2 lb): Choose thinly sliced cuts for quick cooking and tender bites.
- Cooking oil (1/4 cup, divided): Necessary for stir-frying; use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable or avocado.
- Broccoli (1/2 head, about 1 heaping cup): Fresh, crisp broccoli florets add the signature crunch and vibrant color.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Gives the dish an aromatic, savory base that wakes up the flavors.
- Coconut aminos (2 to 3 tbsp for marinating + 1/3 cup for sauce): A soy sauce alternative that adds rich umami with a touch of sweetness.
- Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Tenderizes the beef for the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Arrowroot flour (1 tbsp + 1/2 tbsp): Helps thicken the sauce and gives that glossy, restaurant-style finish.
- Carrot slices (1/3 cup, optional): Adds a sweet crunch and brightens the dish.
- Red bell pepper slices (1/4 cup, optional): Provides extra color and a subtle sweetness.
- Water or beef stock (1/4 cup): Balances the sauce and deepens the meaty flavor.
- Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds a tangy brightness, perfectly cutting through the richness.
- Sesame oil (2 tsp): Infuses the stir fry with a nutty, fragrant note.
How to Make Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Beef
Start by slicing your flank steak into medium-thin strips — this ensures quick cooking and tender bites every time. Marinate the beef with coconut aminos, baking soda, and arrowroot flour. Don’t rush this step; letting it marinate for at least 30 minutes tenderizes the meat and helps achieve that signature silky texture in every mouthful.
Step 2: Mix the Stir Fry Sauce
While the beef mellows, mix together the stir fry sauce ingredients in a small bowl — including the extra coconut aminos, water or beef stock, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a bit more arrowroot flour. This sauce brings a rich, tangy, and subtly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the beef and broccoli.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Vegetables
Heat half the cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sauté the minced garlic until it releases its heavenly aroma. Toss in the broccoli and carrots and cook until just tender but still crisp to keep that satisfying crunch. If you’re using red bell peppers, add them last so they stay colorful and slightly crisp.
Step 4: Cook the Beef and Combine
Push the vegetables to the side, add the remaining oil, and place the marinated beef strips in the skillet. Sear the beef around until it’s golden brown, then reduce the heat and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir everything together, coating the beef and veggies evenly until the sauce thickens gorgeously.
How to Serve Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
To finish your dish with simple but elegant touches, sprinkle sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top. These garnishes not only add a pop of texture and freshness but also elevate the visual appeal, making every bite inviting.
Side Dishes
This stir fry shines served over fluffy steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for added fiber and nuttiness. For a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice works beautifully. You could also pair this dish with simple fried rice or even steamed noodles if you want to switch things up.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at your next meal? Serve the authentic beef and broccoli stir fry recipe in individual shallow bowls garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a citrusy kick. Another fun idea is to spoon it over baked sweet potato halves for a colorful and hearty presentation that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your stir fry, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy quick lunches or dinners during a busy week without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
Freezing beef and broccoli stir fry is possible but best done without the garnishes or rice. Pack the cooled stir fry in a freezer-safe container and it will last about 2 months. When thawed, you may find the broccoli slightly softer, but the flavors remain delicious.
Reheating
For the tastiest reheating, warm your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to rejuvenate the sauce and vegetables. Avoid microwaving without stirring to prevent uneven heating and keep that lovely stir fry texture intact.
FAQs
What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
Flank steak or steak tips work best because they cook quickly and become tender when marinated properly. Thin slicing against the grain is key to tender bites.
Can I use soy sauce instead of coconut aminos?
Yes, soy sauce is a fine substitute but keep in mind it is saltier. Adjust the amount accordingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
How do I keep the broccoli crisp in the stir fry?
Don’t overcook the broccoli—sauté it just until it’s bright green and tender-crisp. Cook it separately first and add it back at the end if needed to maintain texture.
Is arrowroot flour necessary?
Arrowroot flour helps thicken the sauce and gives it that glossy finish typical of restaurant-style stir fries, but cornstarch can be used as a substitute if needed.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the beef for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in place of beef stock to keep the sauce flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about an Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe that just feels like home. With its perfect balance of tender beef, crisp-tender veggies, and a sauce that’s bursting with savory goodness, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a whirl—you’ll love how fast and satisfying it is, and you might just find yourself craving it on repeat!
Print
Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Authentic Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry recipe delivers a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender beef flank steak and crisp broccoli sautéed in a savory sauce made with coconut aminos, garlic, and aromatic sesame oil. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it combines vibrant vegetables with protein-rich beef in a simple yet delicious stir-fry that you can serve over rice or your favorite grain.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 – 1.2 lb Beef Flank Steak or steak tip, thinly sliced
- 2–3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp arrowroot flour
Vegetables
- 1/2 head of broccoli (~1 heaping cup)
- 1/3 cup carrot slices (optional)
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper slices (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Stir Fry 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
Additional
- 1/4 cup cooking oil, divided for stir-frying
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: Cut the flank steak into medium-thin strips to ensure quick and even cooking during the stir-fry process.
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 2-3 tablespoons of coconut aminos, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 tablespoon arrowroot flour. Mix well to coat evenly. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and absorb flavor.
- Make 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 until needed.
- Sauté garlic and vegetables: Heat half of the cooking oil (about 2 tablespoons) in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic, followed by the broccoli and carrots. Stir-fry until the vegetables become tender-crisp, approximately 3-5 minutes. If using, add the red bell pepper slices and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Cook the beef: Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining cooking oil and add the marinated beef slices to the empty side. Sear the beef until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Combine and finish the stir-fry: Reduce heat to medium, pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir continuously to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the ingredients well.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the beef and broccoli stir-fry hot over steamed rice. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Marinating the beef with baking soda helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a more tender texture.
- The arrowroot flour acts as a thickening agent in both the marinade and the sauce, providing a glossy finish.
- The red bell pepper and carrot slices are optional but add nice color and sweetness to the dish.
- You can substitute beef stock with water if preferred for a lighter sauce.
- For a gluten-free and paleo-friendly alternative to soy sauce, coconut aminos is used throughout the recipe.
- Ensure not to overcook vegetables to retain their crispness and vibrant color.
- This stir-fry is best served immediately to enjoy the fresh texture of the ingredients.
