This dish combines tender ground beef with fresh broccoli, making a colorful and tasty meal. It’s quick to cook and full of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights!
You can serve it over rice or noodles for a filling dinner. Honestly, I love how easy it is to whip up. My family gobbles it up every time, and it keeps me smiling! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for this recipe. If you’re looking for healthier options, ground turkey or chicken can work just as well. You can even use crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and crunch. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli can also do the trick. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since frozen broccoli may need a bit more time to thaw.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce gives a rich flavor, but if you’re watching your sodium, you can use low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free option, try tamari instead.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the dish; however, if you prefer a vegetarian substitute, try using mushroom sauce for a similar umami kick.
Sesame Oil: It gives a nutty flavor to the dish. If you are out of sesame oil, you can use olive oil, but it won’t have the same taste. Peanut oil is another great alternative!
How Do I Cook the Beef So It’s Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking the ground beef properly is key to getting that delicious flavor. Start by heating the skillet to medium-high before adding your sesame oil. This helps seal in the juices.
- Add minced garlic and ginger first; this builds a flavor base. Sauté them briefly until fragrant.
- When you add the ground beef, break it apart with a spatula. Let it brown evenly; don’t rush this step! Aim for about 5-7 minutes.
- Season it with salt and pepper during cooking. This enhances the flavor as it cooks.
- Once browned, mix in the broccoli and sauces, and you’ll ensure every bite is flavorful!
How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Garnishes:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir-fry will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Just a quick sauté, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Starting the Stir-Fry:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. This oil adds a lovely nutty flavor to your stir-fry.
2. Adding Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This step will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
3. Cooking the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
4. Incorporating the Vegetables:
Next, stir in the broccoli florets. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Cook everything together for about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently until the broccoli is tender but still bright green. This is where the veggies really absorb those tasty flavors!
5. Thickening the Sauce:
Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Pour this into the skillet and stir well. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely. This gives your dish a delightful texture.
6. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil. This adds an extra burst of flavor at the end.
7. Serving Your Dish:
Serve the beef and broccoli stir-fry over your cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Now, sit back and enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey may be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a splash of extra sesame oil for moisture and flavor.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to customize the stir-fry by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just remember to cut them into small pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are tender!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce, or look for gluten-free soy sauce. Ensure that the oyster sauce you choose is gluten-free as well, as many brands contain wheat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist while reheating.
