Ingredients

• 4 oz (approx. 113g) lean beef steak (e.g., sirloin, flank), thinly sliced against the grain
• 1.5 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1.5 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, divided
• 1 tbsp water or low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp finely grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch, divided
• 1/4 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp neutral cooking oil (e.g., avocado or canola)
• Pinch of black pepper

Steps

1. Prepare the Steak: Slice the lean beef steak against the grain into thin strips. In a small bowl, combine the steak strips with 1/2 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut the fresh broccoli into small, bite-sized florets.
3. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a small pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 1-2 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately drain the broccoli and plunge it into an ice bath (or run under cold water) to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
4. Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of water (or broth), 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of finely grated fresh ginger, 1 clove of minced garlic, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of sesame oil. Set aside.
5. Heat the Wok/Skillet: Heat 1 teaspoon of neutral cooking oil in a non-stick wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
6. Cook the Steak: Add the marinated steak strips to the hot pan in a single layer. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding; if necessary, cook the steak in two small batches. Remove the cooked steak from the pan and set it aside.
7. Stir-fry Broccoli: Add the blanched broccoli florets to the same pan (add another tiny drizzle of oil if needed). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and slightly tender, yet still retaining a crisp bite.
8. Combine and Sauce: Return the cooked steak to the pan with the broccoli. Give the prepared stir-fry sauce a quick whisk again (as cornstarch can settle) and pour it evenly over the steak and broccoli.
9. Thicken the Sauce: Stir continuously for 30-60 seconds, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the steak and broccoli evenly. The sauce should become glossy.
10. Serve Immediately: Transfer the Healthy Chinese Steak & Broccoli Stir-Fry to a serving plate and enjoy hot.