The Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry takes a classic dish to new heights, combining tender steak and vibrant broccoli with the satisfying chew of ramen noodles. This quick 30-minute meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something delicious but easy. With its rich flavors and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances every bite.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this stir fry is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the familiar flavors of beef, broccoli, and ramen noodles.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Using the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Pot for boiling water
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while ensuring even cooking for your steak and vegetables.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Tongs: Perfect for tossing ingredients in the skillet to ensure everything is evenly coated in sauce.
Ingredients
The popular Chinese restaurant Beef and Broccoli stir fry gets a delicious twist with ramen noodles, in this fantastic easy 30 minute meal recipe!
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/3 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon cracked red pepper flakes
For the Ramen
- 2 (3 ounce) packages ramen noodles (seasoning packets discarded)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Stir Fry
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
- 1 pound sirloin steak (trimmed of fat and sliced into 1 1/2-inch strips)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup water
Garnish
- Sesame seeds
How to Make Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and cornstarch until combined. Add in the beef broth, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cracked red pepper. Whisk until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ramen Noodles
Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Cook ramen noodles until just tender (about 2-3 minutes). Drain them, rinse under cold water to stop further cooking, then drizzle with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet; cook without moving for about 3 minutes to brown well on one side. Stir and continue cooking for another 2 minutes until cooked through. Remove steak from skillet and drain off accumulated grease.
Step 4: Steam the Broccoli
Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet along with broccoli. Pour in 1/2 cup of water and cover. Steam broccoli for about 2 minutes until bright green and fork-tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked steak to the skillet along with prepared ramen noodles.
Step 6: Add Sauce
Give the reserved sauce a stir before pouring it into the skillet. Using tongs, mix everything together as it cooks for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately while hot, garnished with sesame seeds on top for added crunch.
Enjoy your flavorful Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry!
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry
Serving Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry is a delightful experience. This dish not only looks appetizing but can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its flavors.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: Add toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Offer additional heat by sprinkling red pepper flakes on top.
Pair with Refreshing Drinks
- Iced Green Tea: A chilled beverage that complements the savory flavors of the stir fry.
- Lemonade: The citrusy zing can balance out the richness of the dish.
- Sake: For an authentic Asian experience, serve with warm sake.
Create a Complete Meal
- Steamed Rice: Serve alongside steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the sauce.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and texture to your meal.
- Pickled Vegetables: Provide a tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry
To achieve the best Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh broccoli and high-quality beef will elevate the taste significantly.
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Make sure to cook ramen just until tender; they will continue cooking when added to the skillet.
- High Heat Cooking: Use medium-high heat for faster cooking, which helps achieve a nice sear on the beef.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer in the skillet before serving.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning based on your preference; add more soy sauce or honey if needed.
- Rest Meat Before Slicing: Allow steak to rest before slicing to retain more juices.
Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry
Pairing side dishes with Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options.
- Steamed Dumplings: These delicious pockets filled with meat or vegetables complement the stir fry perfectly.
- Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame offers a simple yet delightful snack that pairs well with this dish.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls provide a crunchy texture that balances the soft noodles in your main course.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds warmth and depth before diving into your stir fry.
- Fried Rice: Adding fried rice can amplify the meal, providing another layer of flavor and texture.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad cleanses the palate between bites of savory stir fry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry, there are a few common mistakes that can hinder the outcome of this delicious dish. Here’s what to watch out for:
Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking ramen noodles for too long can make them mushy. Always follow package instructions and just cook until tender.
Ignoring the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick or too thin, it can affect flavor distribution. Whisk cornstarch thoroughly into the soy sauce for a smooth texture.
Not Seasoning the Beef Properly: Skipping salt and pepper on the steak can lead to bland meat. Ensure you season it well before cooking for maximum flavor.
Overcrowding the Skillet: When cooking beef or broccoli, overcrowding causes steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale garlic or ginger will diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients to enhance taste and aroma.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry
- Portion into freezer-safe containers.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.
Reheating Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish with a splash of water; cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl; cover loosely. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: In a nonstick skillet, add a tablespoon of water and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry:
What are the best vegetables to use in Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry?
You can use bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots as additional vegetables alongside broccoli to enhance color and nutrition.
Can I make Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Store it properly in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Is Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and check ramen noodles for gluten-free options.
How can I customize my Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry?
Feel free to adjust protein choices by substituting chicken or tofu, or switch up sauces based on your taste preferences!
Final Thoughts
Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet easy to whip up. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for endless variations!
Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry
Beef and Broccoli Ramen Stir Fry is a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines tender sirloin steak, vibrant broccoli, and chewy ramen noodles in a savory sauce. This quick and easy recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food. The rich flavors of soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame oil create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. Plus, with its healthy balance of lean protein and fresh vegetables, this meal satisfies both your taste buds and nutritional needs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1 pound sirloin steak
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 packages ramen noodles
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/3 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon cracked red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for ramen)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, cornstarch, beef broth, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Cook the ramen noodles in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender; drain and toss with sesame oil.
- In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, cook seasoned steak for about 5 minutes until browned; remove from skillet.
- Add oil to the skillet and steam broccoli with water for about 2 minutes until tender.
- Return steak to the skillet along with cooked ramen; pour in the prepared sauce and mix everything together for an additional minute or two until heated through.
- Serve hot garnished with sesame seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
