Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Instructions

1. 1

   Marinate the beef

   5 min

   In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon dry sherry, 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Add the sliced 1 lb sirloin steak to the mixture, making sure each piece is well coated with the marinade for optimal flavor. Allow the beef to marinate for 10 minutes to enhance its tenderness and taste.

2. 2

   Prepare the sauce

   6 min

   In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon dry sherry, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1/4 cup chicken stock until well combined. This sauce will add a rich flavor to your stir-fry, so set it aside for later use.

3. 3

   Blanch the broccoli

   9 min

   Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 lb broccoli florets. Cook them for about 2 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender, then immediately drain them in a colander to stop the cooking process. This step preserves the vibrant color and crunch of the broccoli.

4. 4

   Stir-fry the beef

   9 min

   Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat until it is very hot; a drop of water should sizzle immediately on contact. Add 2 tablespoons high heat cooking oil and swirl it around to coat the pan. Carefully place the marinated beef in a single layer in the pan and allow it to sear undisturbed for 1 minute to develop a nice crust.

5. 5

   Add garlic and finish beef

   2 min

   After 1 minute, flip the beef slices to cook the other side, then add 2 cloves minced garlic to the pan. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, ensuring the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

6. 6

   Combine everything

   4 min

   Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the beef and add a cornstarch slurry made from 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water. Stir quickly until the sauce comes to a boil and thickens, which should take about 30 seconds, then fold in the blanched broccoli to coat it in the sauce.

7. 7

   Serve immediately

   1 min

   Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and enjoy it right away, either on its own or paired with steamed rice for a complete meal. The vibrant colors and aromas should be inviting and appetizing.