Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!)
When you think of quick weeknight dinners that pack a flavor punch, Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) surely comes to mind. This classic dish brings together tender slices of beef, vibrant green broccoli, and a savory sauce that’s irresistible. If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of sweet and savory found in your favorite takeout, you’ll love this easy-to-follow recipe that you can whip up right in your kitchen. Say goodbye to delivery fees and hello to this homemade version that’s just as good, if not better!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) is a beloved dish for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The contrast of succulent beef and crisp broccoli creates a satisfying texture, while the savory sauce ties everything together beautifully. Not to mention, this dish is a great source of protein and vitamins, making it a wholesome option for the whole family. Plus, with the ability to customize it to your liking, it’s no wonder cooks rave about this recipe!
Ingredient Rundown
To create the best Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!), gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound sirloin steak – sliced thin against the grain and cut into 3-4 inch long strips for tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – this will help tenderize the meat and create a velvety texture.
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce – for that umami flavor without the extra sodium.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – adds a subtle tang that brightens the dish.
- 2 tablespoons oil – canola oil, avocado oil, or light olive oil work best for stir frying.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets – about 2 medium broccoli crowns, providing crunch and nutrition.
- 1 cup water – used for steaming the broccoli.
- 1 cup beef broth or beef stock – enhances the beefy flavor of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – for thickening the sauce.
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce – the star of the sauce, adding depth and richness.
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar – to balance out the saltiness with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic – infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
- Green onion and sesame seeds – optional garnishes that add freshness and a finishing touch.
Appliances & Accessories
To make your cooking experience smoother, consider having the following items on hand:
- Chef’s knife – for slicing the beef and broccoli with precision.
- Cutting board – a stable surface for all your chopping needs.
- Wok or large skillet – ideal for stir-frying the beef and broccoli evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula – for stirring and ensuring even cooking.
Mastering Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!): How-To
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this delectable dish.
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced sirloin, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of low sodium soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. Mix well until the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes to develop flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
While the beef marinates, steam the broccoli florets. In a pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil, then add the broccoli. Cover and steam for about 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
In your wok or large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for about 2 minutes, then stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same pan, add 1 cup of beef broth or beef stock, ½ cup of low sodium soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef to the pan along with the steamed broccoli. Toss everything together until the beef and broccoli are evenly coated in the thickened sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove the pan from heat. Serve the Beef And Broccoli over steamed rice or noodles. For an extra touch, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your homemade copycat version of Panda Express!
In-Season Swaps
If you want to elevate your Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) or just experiment with what you have on hand, consider these seasonal swaps:
- Cauliflower – substitute cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
- Bell Peppers – add sliced bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Snow Peas – mix in snow peas for an extra crunch.
- Mushrooms – add shiitake or button mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
When making Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!), you might run into a few common pitfalls. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Keep an eye on the steaming time; you want the broccoli to be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Beef Too Tough: Ensure you slice the beef against the grain and marinate it properly for tenderness.
- Too Salty: If your sauce tastes too salty, you can balance it out with a bit more brown sugar or a splash of water.
- Thick Sauce: If the sauce gets too thick, simply add a little bit of beef broth or water to thin it out.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To keep your Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) fresh and tasty, follow these storage tips:
- Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to restore moisture.
Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin is great for its tenderness, you can also use flank steak or even ground beef if you prefer a quicker cooking time.
Is there a vegetarian version of Beef And Broccoli?
Yes! You can replace the beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce while it simmers.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and broccoli ahead of time. Just store the components separately and combine them when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
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See You at the Table
Gather your family and friends around the table and serve up this hearty Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!). With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, it’s sure to be a hit. Not only will you enjoy a delicious meal, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing you made it from scratch. So, put on your apron, crank up the heat, and get ready to impress!
This easy and delightful recipe for Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) not only satisfies those cravings for takeout but also brings the joy of cooking right into your home. You’ll soon find this dish becoming a regular staple in your dinner rotation, thanks to its incredible flavor and simplicity. Happy cooking!
Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Marinate the Beef. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced sirloin, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of low sodium soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. Mix well until the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
- Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli. Steam the broccoli florets in a pot with 1 cup of boiling water for about 3-4 minutes, until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3: Cook the Beef. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear for about 2 minutes, then stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan.
- Step 4: Make the Sauce. In the same pan, add 1 cup of beef broth, ½ cup of low sodium soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Stir to combine and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Step 5: Combine Everything. Return the cooked beef to the pan with the steamed broccoli. Toss to coat everything in the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Step 6: Serve and Garnish. Serve over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- For a low-carb option, replace broccoli with cauliflower.
- Add bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
