Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!)

Craving the delicious taste of Beef and Broccoli just like you find at Panda Express? Look no further! This Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) recipe brings all the flavors of your favorite takeout dish right into your kitchen. With tender slices of sirloin steak, fresh broccoli florets, and a savory sauce that coats every bite, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re entertaining guests. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

– Quick and easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
– Packed with flavor thanks to the combination of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar.
– A great way to sneak in some veggies with fresh broccoli.
– Customizable with your favorite ingredients or sides.
– Ideal for meal prep – make a double batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

What Goes Into Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!)

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish a hit:

• 1 pound sirloin steak – sliced thin against the grain and cut into 3-4 inch long strips for tenderness.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – for coating the beef to achieve that perfect stir-fry texture.
• 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce – adds umami flavor without too much salt.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – provides a hint of acidity to balance the flavors.
• 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, adding both color and nutrition.
• 1 cup water – helps to steam the broccoli to perfection.
• 1 cup beef broth or beef stock – enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – used again for thickening the sauce.
• ½ cup low sodium soy sauce – the main ingredient in the savory sauce.
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar – for a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic – fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.
• Green onion and sesame seeds – optional garnish for a beautiful presentation.

Toolbox for This Recipe

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the following tools:

• Wok or large skillet – for stir-frying the beef and broccoli.
• Cutting board – to slice your beef and chop vegetables easily.
• Knife – a sharp knife for precise cuts.
• Measuring spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Whisk – to mix your sauce ingredients thoroughly.
• Large mixing bowl – for tossing the beef with cornstarch.

Step-by-Step: Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!)

Follow these simple steps to create your very own Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced sirloin steak with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of low sodium soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. Toss until the beef is well coated. This will help tenderize the meat and create a lovely texture.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

In your wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes. Pour in 1 cup of water, cover, and steam the broccoli for another 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and increase the heat to high. Add the beef in a single layer and let it sear for about 2 minutes without stirring. This will give the beef a nice brown color. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked through and browned. Remove the beef and set it aside with the broccoli.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of beef broth or stock, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, ½ cup of low sodium soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Pour the sauce into the hot pan and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef and broccoli to the pan, tossing everything together to coat in the sauce. Allow it to cook for another minute for the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve your delicious Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) hot over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

If you’re looking to customize your Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) recipe or use what you have on hand, consider these swaps:

• Use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different protein option.
• Swap fresh broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers for added crunch and color.
• Try quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a healthier base.
• Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar for a different sweetener.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!), keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the beef: Ensure you’re cooking the beef quickly over high heat to maintain tenderness.
• Watery sauce: Make sure to mix the cornstarch thoroughly with the broth before adding it to the pan.
• Floppy broccoli: Don’t oversteam; keep it crisp for the best texture.
• Too salty: Always use low sodium soy sauce to control the salt content in your dish.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you have leftovers of your Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the dish, place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 2 months. When reheating, use the stovetop over medium heat for the best results, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

Handy Q&A

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen broccoli can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish to prevent excess water.

What can I serve with Beef and Broccoli?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles. For a lighter option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a Classic Broccoli Salad.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and broccoli and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat and combine with the sauce.

Similar Recipes

If you loved this Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!) recipe, try these delicious dishes:

• Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta – a comforting pasta dish with rich flavors.
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites And Potatoes – a savory and hearty meal perfect for any night.

Before You Go

Now that you have the perfect recipe for Beef And Broccoli (Copycat Panda Express!), it’s time to get cooking! You’ll impress your family and friends with this homemade version that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. Enjoy the flavors, textures, and the satisfaction of creating this beloved dish in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!