Ground Beef And Broccoli

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. Lean ground beef (85% lean) is great for less grease. For a healthier option, turkey or chicken can be used, or even plant-based ground meat for vegetarian diets.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add crunch and brightness. In a pinch, you can use frozen broccoli which is pre-cut and easier. Cauliflower or snap peas could also work well as tasty alternatives.

Soy Sauce: It gives the dish its savory flavor. If you’re avoiding gluten, choose tamari or coconut aminos instead. For a low-sodium option, go for low-sodium soy sauce.

Oyster Sauce: This adds depth and sweetness. If you want a vegetarian option, a mushroom sauce can be a perfect substitute as it mimics the umami flavor.

Rice: I love using white rice for serving, but brown rice or quinoa can make it healthier and add extra fiber.

How Do I Make Sure My Beef Stays Tender and Juicy?

To keep the ground beef tender, cooking it at medium-high heat is crucial; this helps avoid overcooking. Breaking the meat apart as it cooks helps ensure even browning.

• Heat the skillet until hot before adding the beef.
• Use a wooden spoon to crumble the meat gently. Don’t push it too hard!
• Cook just until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Remember, the longer you cook it after it’s browned, the denser it can become, so be mindful of your timing!

How to Make Ground Beef and Broccoli?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Main Dish:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
• 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated

For The Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be serving up a delicious dinner in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

2. Add Aromatics:

Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and grated ginger into the skillet. Stir them into the beef and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This will help release the wonderful flavors and aroma into your dish!

3. Add the Broccoli:

Now it’s time to add the broccoli florets! Stir them into the beef mixture and cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want the broccoli to be tender-crisp, so keep an eye on it and stir occasionally.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

While the broccoli is cooking, grab a small bowl. Combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and beef broth (or water) in the bowl. Whisk them together until the sauce is smooth and there are no lumps.

5. Combine Everything:

Pour the sauce over the cooked beef and broccoli in the skillet. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed. Allow it to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until you notice the sauce thickening slightly. Yum!

6. Season and Serve:

Season your beef and broccoli with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Now, scoop out the cooked white rice onto plates or bowls, and top it with your delicious beef and broccoli mixture. Don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Enjoy your meal!

Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter option. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose, so always ensure it’s fully cooked through.

How to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. You can also check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free or skip it altogether and add extra flavor with more ginger and garlic!

Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works great in this recipe! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture to avoid a watery dish. You can add it directly to the skillet, but reduce the cooking time as it’s already partially cooked.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a pan over medium heat, or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to help steam the broccoli back to life. Just be sure not to overcook it again!