Sesame Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-made Sesame Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry. This dish combines tender slices of beef sirloin with crisp broccoli florets, all tossed in a luscious, savory sesame sauce. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that’s both quick and packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving takeout or looking for a wholesome dinner, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality stir-fry right in your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

This Sesame Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry works because it balances textures and flavors flawlessly. The beef sirloin is thinly sliced to cook quickly and remain tender, while the broccoli provides a satisfying crunch. The sauce, made with soy, honey, garlic, and ginger, is both sweet and savory with a subtle warmth from the ginger. Sesame oil and seeds add a nutty depth that elevates every bite. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing taste.

Ingredient Rundown

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced: Choose a good-quality cut for tenderness and flavor. Thin slices ensure quick cooking.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and vibrant green color, providing a perfect veggie counterpart to the beef.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: This oil delivers a rich, nutty aroma that’s essential for authentic stir-fry flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds pungency and depth.
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Fresh ginger brings a warm, zesty kick that brightens the dish.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Use a low-sodium version if preferred, for that umami saltiness.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Provides a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.
• 1/4 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens the beef flavor in the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Toasted for crunch and nuttiness.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For high-heat cooking without burning.
• Cooked rice or noodles: To serve and soak up all the delicious sauce.

Cook’s Kit

• Sharp knife: Essential for slicing the beef thinly and chopping garlic and ginger.
• Cutting board: For prepping your ingredients safely.
• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for high-heat stir-frying, ensuring even cooking and quick searing.
• Mixing bowl: To combine your sauce ingredients and marinate the beef if you prefer.
• Measuring spoons and cups: For accuracy in your sauce and seasoning.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and tossing ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Sesame Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and beef broth until smooth. Set aside. This mixture will coat the beef and broccoli, creating that signature glossy, flavorful sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat half the sesame oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside to keep crisp.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the remaining sesame oil and the vegetable oil to the pan. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Make sure to spread the slices out to get a nice sear instead of steaming.

Step 5: Combine & Simmer

Return the cooked broccoli to the pan with the beef. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and toss to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.

Step 6: Finish with Sesame Seeds

Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the stir-fry just before serving for a lovely crunch and added flavor.

Step 7: Serve

Scoop the Sesame Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry over bowls of steamed rice or your favorite noodles. The sauce soaks beautifully into both, making every bite irresistible.

Seasonal Twists

• Add snow peas or snap peas in spring for a fresh sweetness and extra crunch.
• In autumn, toss in sliced shiitake mushrooms for earthiness and texture.
• Summer calls for bell peppers or baby corn to brighten the dish with color and flavor.
• For a winter comfort twist, add sliced carrots or water chestnuts for additional crunch and sweetness.

Notes on Ingredients

• Beef sirloin: Look for a well-marbled cut for the best tenderness. If you prefer, flank steak or hanger steak also work well when sliced thinly against the grain.
• Broccoli: Fresh is best, but frozen broccoli florets are a convenient substitute — just thaw and drain before stir-frying.
• Soy sauce: Choose naturally brewed soy sauce for a deeper flavor. Tamari works as a gluten-free alternative.
• Honey: Balances saltiness with sweetness, but feel free to swap with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Sesame oil and seeds: Use toasted sesame oil and seeds for authenticity; avoid raw ones as they lack the characteristic nutty flavor.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Sesame Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking on reheating to maintain the texture of the beef and broccoli.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stir-fry for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Common Qs About Sesame Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! Flank steak, skirt steak, or hanger steak all work well as alternatives. Just be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for the most tender results.

What can I substitute if I don’t have sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use toasted peanut oil or simply omit it and increase the vegetable oil slightly. The nutty flavor is signature but not essential.

Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli is a convenient option. Thaw and drain it well before adding to your stir-fry to prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The same sauce and technique work beautifully with plant-based proteins.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• For another delicious take on sesame flavors, try these Sticky Sesame Orange Chicken Bowls — bursting with citrusy sweetness and sticky sauce.
• If seafood is more your speed, the Sticky Sesame Garlic Shrimp recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, fire up your wok, and get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible Sesame Beef And Broccoli Stir-Fry. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that brings bold flavors and wholesome ingredients together in perfect harmony. Whether served over fluffy rice or tender noodles, this stir-fry is sure to become a fast favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy!

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