Sweet and Tangy Crispy Beef with Broccoli

Sweet and tangy crispy beef with broccoli is a quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring tender strips of sirloin, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty lime-soy glaze. This easy Asian-inspired dinner pairs perfectly with steamed rice for a balanced weeknight meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 360 g (¾ lb) thin-cut sirloin steaks (approx. 3 steaks), sliced into thin strips
• 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch), fine flour type
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pinch black pepper

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets
• 3 tbsp lime juice (about 2 large or 3 small limes)
• 6 tbsp dark soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 7 tbsp caster sugar
• 1 red chilli, chopped (deseed for less heat)
• 4 spring onions (scallions), chopped

To Serve

• Steamed rice
• Extra spring onions and/or chopped red chillies
• 1 tsp chilli flakes

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef
   • In a large bowl, combine cornflour, salt, and pepper. Toss the beef strips in the mixture until fully coated.
2. Crisp the Beef
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add the beef and cook for 5–6 minutes until dark brown and crispy, stirring only 3–4 times to keep the coating intact.
   • Transfer the beef to a bowl lined with kitchen paper to drain excess oil.
3. Cook the Aromatics and Broccoli
   • Remove the wok from the heat, then add the ginger and garlic. Stir for 30 seconds (to prevent burning) before returning to medium heat.
   • Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce
   • In a small bowl, mix lime juice, soy sauce, and sugar. Pour over the broccoli and cook on high heat for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Combine and Serve
   • Return the beef to the wok, stir to coat, and cook for 1 minute. Add chopped chilli and spring onions, give a final stir, and remove from heat.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice, garnished with extra spring onions, red chillies, and chilli flakes.

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Tips

• Crispy Perfection: Avoid overcrowding the pan and limit stirring to keep the beef crunchy.
• Even Cooking: Slice beef strips evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Heat Control: Always remove the pan from the heat before adding garlic to prevent bitterness from burning.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use chicken strips, pork, or tofu instead of beef.
• Vegetable Mix: Replace or combine broccoli with green beans, sugar snap peas, or bell peppers.
• Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar to taste or swap with honey for a milder sweetness.
• Extra Heat: Add more fresh chillies or a drizzle of chilli oil.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but the beef will lose its crispiness. For best results, cook the beef fresh and reheat only the sauce and vegetables.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but blanch it for 1–2 minutes first to avoid excess moisture in the stir-fry.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the cornflour is gluten-free.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with jasmine or basmati rice for a classic pairing.
• Add a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
• For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Texture: Crispy beef with tender-crisp broccoli.
• Balanced Flavour: Sweet, tangy, salty, and a touch of heat in every bite.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to different proteins, veggies, and spice levels.