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Close-up detail of glossy, dark savory sauce coating thinly sliced flank steak and vibrant green broccoli for the Beef and Broccoli Recipe.

The Ultimate Glossy Beef and Broccoli Recipe

This Beef and Broccoli Recipe features tender, thinly sliced flank steak and vibrant green broccoli coated in a dark, glossy, savory sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect takeout-quality dinner at home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian American
Calories: 385
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Ingredients
  

Beef and Broccoli Ingredients
  • 1 lb flank steak Thinly sliced against the grain
  • 4 cups broccoli florets Fresh, briefly blanched
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce Tamari can be substituted
  • 1/2 cup beef broth Low-sodium preferred
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar For caramelization
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch For a thick, glossy finish
  • 4 cloves minced garlic Roughly chopped for visibility
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds Toasted
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil Added at the end
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil For high-heat searing

Equipment

  • 1 Large wok or heavy-bottomed skillet Essential for high-heat searing.
  • 1 Medium mixing bowl For whisking the sauce.

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Begin by slicing 1 lb (450g) flank steak very thinly, directly against the grain. Toss the sliced beef in a bowl with a pinch of cornstarch and a splash of soy sauce to 'velvet' the meat, locking in moisture.
  2. Bring a small pot of water to a boil and drop in 4 cups (360g) broccoli florets for exactly 60 seconds. Immediately remove them and run them under ice-cold water to keep them vibrant green.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup (80ml) soy sauce, 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth, 2 tbsp (30g) brown sugar, 1 tbsp (8g) cornstarch, and 1 tbsp (15ml) sesame oil. Stir vigorously until dissolved.
  4. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add 2 tbsp (30ml) avocado oil until it shimmers. Add the beef in a single layer, sear for 1-2 minutes until golden-brown, then push to the sides.
  5. Drop 4 cloves (12g) roughly minced garlic directly into the center of the pan. Let sizzle for 30 seconds until extremely fragrant.
  6. Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan, stirring constantly. Once the sauce thickens into a glossy, dark glaze, fold in the vibrant green broccoli florets. Toss until completely coated.
  7. Remove from heat and generously sprinkle 1 tbsp (9g) toasted sesame seeds over the top. Serve immediately in a shallow bowl.

Notes

Slice Against the Grain: Always cut perpendicular to the muscle fibers for tender meat.
Don't Overcook the Broccoli: Shocking the florets in cold water is the secret to retaining that bright green color.