Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles

Make this Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles for an easy weeknight dinner that your family will love! This dish combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and flavorful lo mein noodles in a savory sauce. It’s perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving a comforting meal. The best part? This recipe can be customized with your favorite vegetables and proteins, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey creates a rich and savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use flank steak or sirloin, and substitute spaghetti with any noodle you prefer for a personalized touch.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with broccoli, this dish offers a nutritious punch while still satisfying your cravings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one wok or pan.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles, having the right tools is essential. Follow these guidelines for an effortless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok: Ideal for stir-frying due to its shape, allowing even cooking at high heat.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining sauces and marinating beef without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures ingredients blend smoothly, especially useful for making sauces.

Ingredients

Make this delicious beef and broccoli stir fry with lo mein noodles! It comes together quickly and easily for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:
– 3/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
– ½ cup oyster sauce
– ½ cup honey (you can also use brown sugar)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon browning (optional – I like to use this because it adds color)
– 1 pound steak (sliced; flank steak or sirloin works well)
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1/4 cup onions (diced)
– 1/8 cup garlic (diced)
– 1/8 cup ginger (diced)
– 16 ounces broccoli
– 16 ounces noodles (I used spaghetti)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water

How to Make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Cook your noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together the following ingredients:
– Soy sauce
– Oyster sauce
– Honey
– Rice wine vinegar
– Browning (if using)

In another bowl:
1. Combine cold water with cornstarch to create a slurry.
2. Slowly mix the slurry into the soy sauce mixture and set aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl:
1. Add sliced beef along with soy sauce, cornstarch, rice wine vinegar, and ground ginger.
2. Stir until the beef is evenly coated.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

1. Heat sesame oil in a hot wok.
2. Add marinated beef and sear until cooked to your preference.
3. Transfer cooked beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

In the same wok:
1. Add diced onions, garlic, and ginger.
2. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add broccoli florets and cooked noodles.
4. Stir-fry on high heat until broccoli is tender.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Gradually pour in the prepared sauce while constantly mixing to ensure even coating of all ingredients.

Step 7: Final Touches

Add the seared beef back into the wok:
1. Mix everything together until warmed through.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Dish out your delicious Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles while hot!

Now you can enjoy this delightful meal that brings together flavors from American-Chinese cuisine in one easy recipe!

How to Serve Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles

Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Plating Suggestions

• Use a large, shallow bowl for an elegant presentation.
• Garnish with fresh scallions or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Complementary Sauces

• Serve with extra soy sauce or chili paste on the side for those who enjoy a little kick.
• A drizzle of sesame oil can add a nutty flavor that complements the dish well.

Accompaniments

• Pair with steamed dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
• Enjoy alongside crispy spring rolls for a crunchy contrast.

Beverage Pairings

• A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Green tea is a refreshing choice that complements the meal beautifully.

How to Perfect Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles

Achieving the perfect Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality beef make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Prep ahead: Have all ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking to streamline the process.
• Cook quickly: Stir-frying on high heat keeps the vegetables crisp and flavorful. Avoid overcooking them.
• Tweak the sauce: Adjust the balance of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and honey to suit your taste preferences.
• Choose the right noodles: While lo mein noodles are traditional, spaghetti or egg noodles work well too!
• Garnish wisely: Top with toasted sesame seeds or cilantro for an added touch of freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles

To complement your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles, consider serving these delicious side dishes. They pair well and enhance your overall meal experience.

1. Steamed Dumplings – Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables make a hearty addition.
2. Crispy Spring Rolls – Crunchy spring rolls filled with veggies offer a delightful contrast in texture.
3. Egg Drop Soup – A light soup that balances the rich flavors of the main dish perfectly.
4. Fried Rice – Flavorful fried rice adds substance and pairs wonderfully with stir-fried dishes.
5. Asian Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with a tangy dressing provides a nice crunch alongside your noodles.
6. Hot and Sour Soup – This spicy soup adds warmth and depth to your meal, enhancing its overall appeal.
7. Sesame Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with sesame oil offer a nutritious side option.
8. Chow Mein Vegetables – A mix of stir-fried vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate while staying within the Asian theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Using high-sodium soy sauce: Opt for low sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness and enhance the flavor of your meal.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Keep the broccoli crisp by stir-frying it just until tender. This preserves its vibrant color and nutrients.
• Not marinating the beef: Marinating the beef is crucial for flavor and tenderness. Ensure you coat it well with soy sauce and seasonings before cooking.
• Skipping the cornstarch slurry: This step thickens your sauce, giving it a rich consistency. Don’t skip mixing the cornstarch with water before adding it to the sauce.
• Crowding the pan: Cooking too many ingredients at once can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil. Stir-fry until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles?

Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles is a delicious stir-fry dish featuring tender beef, fresh broccoli, and lo mein noodles tossed in a savory sauce.

Can I use other vegetables in Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I make Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce. Check your noodle packaging to ensure they are also gluten-free.

What type of beef is best for this recipe?

Flank steak or sirloin works best due to their tenderness when sliced thinly.

Final Thoughts

Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Noodles is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste. Enjoy this delicious dish that brings together flavors from both American and Chinese cuisines!