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Sliced flat iron steak and broccoli florets coated in brown sauce in a light-colored skillet.

Beef and Broccoli with Flat Iron Steak

Thinly sliced flat iron steak and broccoli tossed in a savory garlic-ginger sauce. An easy homemade takeout-style dinner to serve with rice or fried rice.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound flat iron steak
  • 3-4 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil divided
  • ½ cup water for steaming broccoli
Beef Marinade
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon neutral cooking oil
Sauce
  • ½ cup beef or chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce or 2 tablespoons regular soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 garlic cloves minced, or ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger or ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil optional

Method
 

  1. Slice the flat iron steak thinly against the grain, about ⅛–¼ inch thick. For easier slicing, optionally place it in the freezer for 15–20 minutes first. Toss the sliced beef with the marinade's soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the remaining ingredients.
  2. Whisk together the broth, sauce's soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, ginger, and optional sesame oil. Set aside.
  3. Add ½ cup water to a large skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the broccoli, cover, and steam for 2–3 minutes, until bright green and just tender. Drain the broccoli and wipe the skillet dry.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon cooking oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the beef in a single layer. Sear for about 1 minute, then flip and cook for another 30–60 seconds. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining tablespoon oil and beef. These timings are approximate and depend on slice thickness and pan heat.
  5. Whisk the sauce again to redistribute the cornstarch, then pour it into the skillet. Bring to a simmer and stir for 1–2 minutes, until thickened. If too thick, add a small splash of broth or water.
  6. Return the broccoli, beef, and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Toss briefly until coated and the beef is cooked through. Serve immediately with rice or fried rice.

Notes

This recipe works with a little less than a pound of steak; no adjustment to the sauce is needed.
Use the smaller soy sauce amount if using regular soy sauce. Lower-sodium broth gives you more control over the saltiness.
For tender beef, slice thinly against the grain, avoid crowding the skillet, and keep the final simmer brief.