Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

This hearty Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry transforms the beloved Chinese restaurant classic into a complete meal by adding ramen noodles. The savory sauce clings perfectly to the tender beef strips and bright green broccoli, creating a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

I first made this recipe when I needed a quick weeknight dinner that would satisfy my craving for takeout. Now it has become our family's go-to meal when we want something comforting but don't want to wait for delivery.

Ingredients

• Low sodium soy sauce: forms the savory base of our sauce without overwhelming saltiness
• Cornstarch: creates that signature silky texture that coats each bite perfectly
• Beef broth: adds depth and enhances the meaty flavor throughout
• Honey: balances the savory elements with just the right touch of sweetness
• Hoisin sauce: brings that authentic Chinese restaurant flavor profile
• Rice vinegar: adds brightness and cuts through the richness
• Sesame oil: provides that distinctive nutty aroma essential in Asian cooking
• Fresh garlic and ginger: create the aromatic foundation look for firm heads with tight cloves for garlic
• Sirloin steak: offers the perfect balance of tenderness and flavor choose well-marbled cuts for best results
• Fresh broccoli florets: add color nutrition and texture select bright green heads with tight florets
• Ramen noodles: cook quickly and absorb all the delicious sauce flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the sauce:

First whisk soy sauce with cornstarch until completely smooth. This crucial step prevents lumps later. Add remaining sauce ingredients and whisk until everything is fully incorporated. The sauce should have a uniform consistency with a beautiful amber color.

Cook the ramen:

Boil water and cook noodles for exactly 2-3 minutes. They should remain slightly firm as they'll continue cooking in the stir fry. Immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. The sesame oil coating prevents clumping and adds flavor.

Sear the beef:

Heat oil until shimmering hot before adding seasoned beef strips. Allow them to develop a rich brown crust by resisting the urge to stir immediately. This creates the beautiful caramelization that adds depth to the entire dish. The beef should be cooked through but still tender.

Cook the broccoli:

Add broccoli to the same pan for maximum flavor. The quick steam method keeps the vegetables vibrant green and perfectly crisp-tender. You want them fork tender but still with a pleasant bite.

Combine and finish:

Add everything back to the pan along with the prepared sauce. The heat activates the cornstarch creating that glossy coating characteristic of Chinese restaurant dishes. Toss continuously to ensure even coating and prevent sticking.

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The sesame oil is truly my secret weapon in this recipe. I learned from my Chinese neighbor that a little goes a long way, and it adds that authentic aroma that makes people ask "how did you make this taste like takeout?" My family always knows its stir fry night when that distinctive nutty scent fills our kitchen.

Meal Prep Magic

This beef and broccoli ramen stir fry is perfect for meal prepping. Cook once and enjoy multiple meals throughout the week. The flavors actually develop further overnight, making the leftovers sometimes even better than the original meal. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a small splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

Customize Your Stir Fry

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. Not a beef fan? Substitute chicken thighs or shrimp for equally delicious results. For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu or double the broccoli and add mushrooms for meaty texture. The sauce works wonderfully with any protein choice. You can also expand the vegetable selection by adding sliced carrots, snow peas, or bell peppers for additional color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stir fry piping hot straight from the wok for the best experience. For a complete meal, no sides are necessary as this dish contains protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. However, if you want to make it extra special, pair with a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For larger gatherings, this pairs wonderfully with egg rolls or potstickers as appetizers.

Common Queries

→ Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Yes, you can use chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even pork for a different protein option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it is properly cooked.

→ What type of ramen noodles should I use?

Instant ramen noodles work best for this dish. Simply discard the seasoning packets and use the noodles only.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Thaw it slightly and adjust steaming time, as it may cook faster than fresh florets.

→ How do I make the dish less salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and beef broth to reduce the saltiness. You can also omit or reduce the added salt used to season the beef.

→ What can I use as a garnish other than sesame seeds?

Try chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or crushed peanuts for a different garnish option.