Description
A quick and flavorful Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry combining tender broccoli florets with savory ground beef in a rich soy and oyster sauce. This 25-minute recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and serves 4, offering a balanced mix of protein and vegetables with a hint of ginger and garlic.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Aromatics
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or low-sodium alternative)
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional)
Cooking Oil and Garnish
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (or neutral oil like vegetable oil)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, water, cornstarch, and honey or sugar if using. Set the mixture aside to allow the cornstarch to dissolve.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, drain excess fat if needed to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and aromatic, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the beef mixture. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp. If necessary, sprinkle a little water into the pan and cover briefly to steam the broccoli, ensuring it remains vibrant and slightly crunchy.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy coating that binds the flavors together.
- Serve: Remove the stir fry from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce and omit or reduce oyster sauce.
- Honey or sugar is optional but adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory sauce.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer crispier broccoli, add it later and cook for a shorter time.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
