Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli with Black Bean Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender beef strips and crisp broccoli simmered in a savory black bean sauce. This chinese-inspired asian ready in about 30 minutes blends beef flank steak, broccoli crowns, black bean sauce into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Chinese cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Slice 12 oz beef flank steak thinly against the grain. Toss with 1 tbsp cornstarch and 1/2 tsp salt; set aside.
  2. Step 2: Cut 1 lb broccoli crowns into 1-inch florets. Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add beef mixture and stir-fry for 3 minutes until browned; remove and set aside.
  4. Step 4: Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated ginger to the skillet; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Return beef to the skillet. Add 3 tbsp black bean sauce, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 3 tbsp water. Stir to combine.
  6. Step 6: Add blanched broccoli and simmer for 3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender. Stir in 1 tsp sesame oil. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli with Black Bean Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli with Black Bean Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli with Black Bean Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli with Black Bean Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli with Black Bean Sauce?

Chinese asian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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