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This savory steak and broccoli stir fry has turned many weeknights into special dinners for my family The way the ribeye soaks up a flavorful sweet and spicy sauce pairs perfectly with the crunch of justtender broccoli For anyone looking for a satisfying skillet meal that feels both cozy and restaurant worthy this recipe delivers every time
I was surprised the first time I tossed everything together in my cast iron how quickly and easily the sauce thickened up and coated every bite My partner calls it better than takeout and now it is a regular in our rotation
Ingredients
- Ribeye steak: Look for wellmarbled slices for tender texture and plenty of beef flavor
- Broccoli florets: Choose bright green florets with tight heads for the best crunch
- Onion: Sliced onion gives a sweet depth Make sure it is firm for easier slicing
- Minced garlic: Fresh garlic is best for pungent aroma do not use prechopped if you can avoid it
- Laoganma chili crisps: This chili oil adds spicy savory flavor Seek out the authentic jar for best results
- Water: Just a splash to help the sauce come together
- Soy sauce: Lends plenty of umami Go for a naturally brewed version if possible
- Brown sugar: Gives the sauce its lovely caramel note Choose a soft light brown sugar
- Honey: Rounds out the sweetness Use local honey if you can find it
- Chinese five spice: Key to the dish’s unique flavor profile Pick a fragrant blend with balanced aroma
- Hoisin sauce: Makes the sauce rich and glossy Try an Asian market for real depth of flavor
- Sherry wine: Brings acidity and a gentle sweetness Use dry sherry if possible
- Pepper: Gives a gentle bite Always freshly crack it for the best taste
- Salt and pepper: Used for seasoning the steak Season just before cooking for maximum flavor
- Chili infused sesame oil: Brings nutty aromas with a little kick Look for a reputable brand with visible chili flakes
- Olive oil: For pan frying Use a lighter flavored oil so it does not overpower the sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil Add fresh broccoli florets and cook for two minutes This step brightens the broccoli and keeps it crisp Drain immediately and set aside so it keeps its vibrant color
- Sear the Steak:
- Heat olive oil in a sturdy cast iron skillet over medium high heat Season ribeye strips with salt and pepper Cook the steak in batches for about two minutes per side This quick sear locks in the juices and leaves a flavorful browned edge Remove each batch to a plate as soon as you see a caramelized crust
- Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- In the same skillet toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic Turn heat to medium and gently stir until the onion softens and becomes fragrant This builds your flavor base Avoid browning the garlic which can make the dish taste bitter
- Build the Sauce:
- Lower heat slightly Add laoganma chili crisps soy sauce brown sugar honey Chinese five spice hoisin sauce sherry wine and a splash of water Stir everything together and let the aromatics blend into the sauce Watch as it thickens and bubbles in the skillet
- Add Broccoli and Steak:
- Fold the blanched broccoli and seared steak strips back into the skillet Stir gently making sure everything gets a shiny coating of sauce Keep over the heat about two more minutes As the sauce thickens it should cling nicely to every piece
- Finish and Serve:
- Drizzle with chili infused sesame oil for a silken touch Serve immediately piping hot with steamed rice or noodles for the perfect meal
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The addition of laoganma chili crisp totally won me over and introduced me to a whole new world of spicy condiments I remember my sister asking for the recipe the first time she tried it because she was amazed at how much the five spice transformed a simple beef stir fry
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool to room temperature before storing Place in a sealed airtight container and refrigerate They will keep for up to three days To reheat use a skillet over low heat adding a splash of water if the sauce gets too thick This helps keep both the steak tender and the broccoli vibrant
Ingredient Substitutions
If ribeye is out of reach you can swap in sirloin or even pre sliced stir fry beef strips For a vegetarian option try portobello mushrooms or extra firm tofu No sherry wine Use rice vinegar plus a small pinch of sugar And if you cannot find chili crisp a spoonful of chili oil works too though it is a little less complex
Serving Suggestions
This steak and broccoli is best when served right away alongside a bowl of fluffy white rice Jasmine or medium grain work nicely If you want to make it a bigger meal add sauteed snow peas or bell peppers Sometimes I top the whole thing with a soft egg for an extra treat
A Little Recipe Background
Broccoli and beef is a staple in Chinese American kitchens The appeal is all about the textures juicy beef crisp broccoli and glossy salty sweet sauce The dish took off in US restaurants in the mid twentieth century but home cooks like us have made tweaks over the years for even more layered flavor Chinese five spice and chili crisp are modern flourishes that bring the recipe to life in my kitchen
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This stir fry never fails to impress Whether for a quick weeknight meal or sharing with friends it always disappears fast Enjoy every bite
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you keep steak tender in this dish?
Use high heat and quick searing so the ribeye stays juicy. Cut against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- → What gives the sauce its unique flavor?
The combination of hoisin, soy, brown sugar, five spice, and chili crisps creates a sweet, spicy, and umami-rich glaze.
- → Can other vegetables be substituted for broccoli?
Yes, snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy also pair well and retain their crunch in the quick stir-fry method.
- → Is this dish spicy?
The chili crisps and chili sesame oil provide mild heat. Adjust amounts for a milder or bolder kick.
- → What is the best way to serve this meal?
Serve hot over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the savory-sweet sauce and balance the flavors.