If there’s one dish that has the power to transport me back to my most cherished memories of family dinners, it’s this Beef with Garlic Sauce! Growing up, my family would often gather around the dining table, and my mom would whip up this tantalizing stir-fry. The aroma of garlic sizzling and the vibrant colors of the broccoli making their way into the kitchen were enough to get anyone’s appetite going. Every bite was a delightful combination of savory flavors and tender beef, and it became a cherished staple in our home.
Now, as an adult, I find myself making this dish often, especially when I want a quick yet satisfying meal. It’s a wonderful reminder of those special moments spent together, and it always impresses anyone I share it with. Plus, the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, so even if you’re a kitchen novice, you can whip it up in no time! Let me guide you through this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
What’s in Beef with Garlic Sauce?
- Beef sirloin or flank steak: I prefer sirloin for its tenderness, but flank steak is a great budget-friendly option. Make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color. You can substitute with snap peas or bell peppers if you like!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings a bold, aromatic flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Soy sauce: A classic staple; it adds a salty umami flavor. I love using low-sodium soy sauce to keep it from getting too salty.
- Oyster sauce: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding oyster sauce, feel free to use mushroom sauce as a great alternative!
- Cornstarch: A little bit of cornstarch makes the beef tender and adds a glossy finish to the sauce.
- Vegetable oil: I typically use canola or grapeseed oil because they have a high smoke point, perfect for stir-frying.
- Sesame oil: This oil brings a nutty aroma and richness to the dish. A little goes a long way!
- Brown sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the savory flavors beautifully.
- Ground ginger: Fresh or ground ginger adds warmth. I personally prefer the fresh variety for its vibrant flavor!
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning—just keep it light; the soy sauce adds saltiness.
- Sesame seeds and green onions: These are for garnish, adding a lovely crunch and freshness!
Is Beef with Garlic Sauce Good for You?
Well, let’s talk about balance! This dish is a wonderful source of protein thanks to the beef, and the broccoli packs in nutrients like vitamins K and C, along with fiber. Garlic is also a superstar for its immune-boosting properties, while ginger can aid digestion and reduce inflammation. However, it’s important to note that the sauces contribute sodium to the dish, so if you’re watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce.
In general, this dish is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Serve it with a side of steamed rice or noodles, and you’re all set for a delightful meal!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Beef with Garlic Sauce?
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and ginger. Ensure everything is well coated, then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step locks in flavor!
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Blanch for 2-3 minutes until they’re bright green and tender. Drain and set aside. This quick cooking method keeps the broccoli vibrant!
- Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear for about 2 minutes without stirring so that it gets a nice crust. Then stir-fry until it’s nearly cooked through, about 2-3 more minutes. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Garlic: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds—just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; burnt garlic isn’t anybody’s friend!
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked beef to the pan, add the blanched broccoli, and drizzle with sesame oil. Mix everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, making sure the broccoli is tender and the beef is cooked thoroughly.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish the dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, then serve hot!
Tips for the Best Beef with Garlic Sauce
- Don’t skip the marination step; it makes a world of difference in the flavor!
- If you want to add more veggies, bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots would be fantastic additions.
- This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
- If you’re meal-prepping, this stir-fry reheats well, so consider making a batch for the week ahead.
This Beef with Garlic Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s nostalgia on a plate. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for those evenings when you want something comforting yet impressive. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try—trust me, your tastebuds will thank you! Once you’ve made it, share your experience, and let me know if you made any special twists to it. Happy cooking!
