Ground Beef And Broccoli

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: This is a key ingredient for protein and flavor. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. I personally enjoy using a mix of beef and pork for added richness!

Broccoli: Fresh or frozen both work well, but I prefer fresh for its texture. If you want, you can swap it for other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy for a different taste.

Soy Sauce: A crucial element for seasoning. If you’re looking for a lower sodium option, use a low-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that works just as well.

Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the dish. If you can’t find it, you can use hoisin sauce or skip it entirely. The flavors will still be delicious!

Sesame Oil: This contributes a nice, nutty flavor. If you need an alternative, try grapeseed oil or avocado oil, though they won’t have the same distinct taste.

How Do I Cook the Beef So It’s Just Right?

Cooking the ground beef properly is essential. Start by heating your skillet until it’s hot before adding the oil and beef. This helps achieve a nice browning.

• Break apart the beef as you cook it with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; if your skillet is too full, the beef will steam instead of brown.
• Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, then season with salt and pepper for flavor.

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dish:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1-2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil (for frying)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and 15 minutes for cooking. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a tasty dinner ready to serve!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

Start by heating a tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, making sure it’s cooked all the way through. Season it with a little salt and pepper for flavor. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Ginger:

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Then, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté this mixture for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. This step will enhance the flavor of your dish!

3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli:

Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry them for about 3-4 minutes. You want the broccoli to be bright green and still tender-crisp, so don’t overcook it!

4. Combine Everything Together:

Now that your broccoli is ready, pour the cooked ground beef back into the skillet. In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), cornstarch, and water until smooth. Pour this sauce mixture over the beef and broccoli in the skillet.

5. Heat and Serve:

Stir everything together well so that the sauce coats the beef and broccoli. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through. Now it’s time to serve! Spoon your delicious ground beef and broccoli over cooked white rice. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for that extra touch.

Enjoy your meal!

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works great in this dish. Just remember to thaw it slightly before cooking to reduce excess moisture and ensure even cooking. You can quickly thaw it in the microwave or add it directly to the skillet, cooking it a bit longer until heated through.

What If I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?

No problem! You can simply omit the oyster sauce if you don’t have it on hand. For added flavor, try substituting it with an extra tablespoon of soy sauce or a dash of hoisin sauce, which can give a slightly different yet delicious taste.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in a microwave until warm. If the sauce thickens too much while stored, you can add a little water or broth to loosen it up while reheating.

Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?

Yes, feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option! Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats may cook faster, so keep an eye on browning them to ensure they are fully cooked through.