This dish combines thinly sliced, marinated beef with crisp-tender broccoli florets and cooked noodles, all brought together in a savory Asian-style sauce. The beef is quickly stir-fried to seal in juices while the vegetables retain a fresh crunch. The sauce, made from soy, oyster sauce, and brown sugar, balances salty and sweet notes enhancing every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying choice for a flavorful weeknight meal.
I still remember the first time I cooked Beef and Broccoli Noodles; the kitchen was filled with the sizzle of stir-fry and an irresistible aroma that made me feel like I had unlocked a new favorite weeknight meal.
One evening, unexpected guests arrived just as I started cooking this, and it was a lifesaver; everyone loved the flavors and the noodles soaked up the sauce perfectly in no time.
Ingredients
- 350 g flank steak or sirloin: Thinly slicing the beef ensures it cooks quickly and stays tender during the stir-fry
- Soy sauce: I prefer a good quality one for that deep umami flavor that makes the sauce sing
- Sesame oil: A little goes a long way to add that nutty aroma you can’t resist
- Egg or rice noodles: Choose based on what you have, but cooking them just right keeps the texture perfect
- Broccoli florets: Blanched until bright green and crisp, they add great crunch and freshness
- Garlic and carrot: They bring sweetness and a lovely fragrant base to the stir-fry
- Oyster sauce and dark soy: These build the rich depth of the sauce, so I always make sure to have them on hand
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef:
- Mix the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper. As you stir, you’ll notice the beef beginning to soften and glisten, a promise of that juicy texture ahead.
- Prepare Noodles and Veggies:
- Cook the noodles to just tender, then drain and set aside; blanch the broccoli in boiling water until it turns bright green and stays crisp-tender—this contrast in textures is key.
- Whisk the Sauce:
- Combine soy sauces, oyster sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and broth; the balance of sweet, salty, and tangy will elevate every bite.
- Stir-Fry Beef:
- Heat vegetable oil in a hot wok, tossing in beef to brown quickly; listen for the satisfying sizzle and watch as the meat changes color, locking in flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add more oil and gently cook garlic, carrot, and broccoli so the scents bloom and the veggies absorb a hint of oil and caramelization.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the beef, add noodles, and pour in the sauce; toss vigorously over high heat to coat every strand and morsel, releasing a mouthwatering aroma.
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle sliced scallions on top for fresh color and bite, then serve immediately while warm and fragrant.
There was a time this dish brought us all together during a tough week, reminding me that food can be comfort wrapped in noodles and rich sauce on a plate.
Keeping It Fresh
To keep the flavors vibrant, cook the veggies last and avoid overcooking them; the crunch really makes the dish pop.
When You're Missing Something
If you don’t have all the sauces, a splash of soy with a little brown sugar can help mimic the deep taste, though the oyster sauce really elevates the final dish.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
This dish pairs beautifully with a light jasmine tea or a crisp lager to balance the rich, savory notes
- Make sure to toss in scallions last for fresh sharpness that wakes up the dish
- If you want a bit of heat, a teaspoon of chili paste stirred in is fantastic
- Leftovers taste even better the next day once flavors meld, so cook extra if you can
Thanks for cooking along; I hope this brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the broccoli crisp?
-
Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water to retain their bright color and crunch.
- → What cuts of beef work best?
-
Flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced, are ideal for quick stir-frying and tender results.
- → Can I substitute the noodles?
-
Yes, egg noodles or rice noodles both work well with this dish depending on your preference.
- → How do I achieve an authentic Asian sauce flavor?
-
Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and broth for a balanced, savory, and slightly sweet sauce.
- → What variations can be made for dietary restrictions?
-
Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles to avoid gluten, or substitute beef with chicken or tofu for different protein options.