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Quick Beef with Broccoli

This classic beef and broccoli stir-fry is a fantastic option for a nutritious midweek meal when time is short. By using thinly sliced sirloin and tender broccoli florets, you create a high-protein dish that is both satisfying and full of savoury umami flavour. The light cornflour coating on the beef ensures the meat stays tender while helping to create a glossy, rich sauce that clings perfectly to every ingredient.

As a versatile high-protein dinner, this recipe is ideal for those looking for a balanced meal after a busy day. The combination of fresh garlic and soy sauce provides a fragrant base that pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or even wholewheat noodles. Garnished with a few sprigs of fresh coriander, it offers a fresh and homemade alternative to a traditional takeaway.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Quick Beef with Broccoli

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cornflour

  • 1/4 teaspoons salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons black pepper

  • 350g sirloin beef tips, sliced against the grain 1/8 inch thick

  • 45ml vegetable oil

  • 275g frozen broccoli florets, thawed

  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 45ml soy sauce

  • 1/3 cup water

  • Accompaniment: rice

  • Garnish: fresh coriander sprigs

  • a well-seasoned 14-inch flat-bottomed wok

How to make Quick Beef with Broccoli

Toss together cornflour, salt, pepper, and beef in a bowl until meat is coated.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in wok over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then stir-fry beef until just cooked through, about 1 minute. Transfer with a slotted spoon to another bowl and keep warm, loosely covered with foil.

Add remaining tablespoon oil to wok along with broccoli and garlic and stir-fry over moderately high heat until broccoli is just tender and garlic is pale golden, about 2 minutes.

Add soy sauce and water and bring to a boil. Return meat to skillet and cook, stirring, until sauce is thickened, about 2 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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