When it comes to preparing a quick yet delicious meal that combines savory, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors, Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews is a go-to recipe. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, and it also makes an elegant dish to serve to guests. This recipe features tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and crunchy cashews all tossed together in a sweet and savory sauce. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a dish to impress, this recipe is the perfect choice.
What is Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews?
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews is a delicious and flavorful dish where tender beef slices are stir-fried with fresh broccoli, crispy cashews, and a savory sauce made with soy sauce, honey, orange juice, and a hint of ginger and garlic. The dish is served hot and can be paired with steamed rice or noodles, making it a complete and balanced meal.
This dish is not only quick and easy to make but also packs a punch with its bold flavors. It combines the rich umami of the beef with the sweetness of honey and orange juice, and the crunchiness of roasted cashews adds an extra texture that brings the whole dish together. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, savory, and spicy that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Origin of Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews
While the beef and broccoli stir-fry is often thought of as a dish with origins in Chinese-American cuisine, it has become a favorite across various cultures. The pairing of beef and broccoli is a long-standing tradition in Chinese culinary history. The addition of cashews to this dish is a modern twist that adds a crunchy texture and a nutty richness, giving the recipe a more contemporary feel. Cashews are commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, which is where the influence of cashew nuts in stir-fries began to grow.
Cashews bring a hint of sweetness and earthiness to the dish, balancing out the savory, salty flavors of the soy sauce and fish sauce. This dish combines the best elements of traditional stir-fry with a creative twist, resulting in a flavorful and well-rounded meal.
Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews
This easy and quick stir-fry recipe uses fresh ingredients that are easy to find and will elevate your dinner to new heights. Here’s what you’ll need to create this savory dish:
- 300g beef steak (flank or sirloin works best), thinly sliced
- 300g broccoli florets
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 25–50g roasted cashews, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp orange juice (or dry sherry for a deeper flavor)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional, for umami depth)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp vegetable or coconut oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor, and each element plays a vital role in ensuring the stir-fry is balanced and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
1. Make the Sauce
To begin, prepare the sauce by combining the soy sauce, orange juice, honey, fish sauce (if using), chili flakes, and a splash of water in a small bowl. Whisk everything together until fully incorporated and set aside. This sauce will provide the savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors that bring the whole dish together.
2. Sear the Beef
In a wok or large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced beef. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the beef is browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the red onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 1 minute, until the aromatics become fragrant and the onion begins to soften. This step will infuse the oil with the flavors of garlic and ginger, creating a base layer of flavor for the dish.
4. Add the Broccoli and Cashews
Now, toss in the broccoli florets and cashews. Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the broccoli is evenly coated in the oil and aromatics. The broccoli should still be tender-crisp, maintaining its vibrant green color and slightly crunchy texture.
5. Simmer with the Sauce
Next, pour the prepared sauce into the pan. Stir everything together and cover the pan with a lid. Let the dish simmer for about 3-5 minutes, until the broccoli becomes tender but still has a bit of bite. This allows the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients beautifully.
6. Finish the Dish
Finally, return the cooked beef to the pan and stir everything together. Allow the beef to heat through for another minute, making sure it’s evenly mixed with the broccoli, cashews, and sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Variations on the Recipe
While this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews is delicious as written, you can customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stir-fry. Carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, or even mushrooms are great additions that bring extra texture and flavor to the dish.
- Swap Beef for Chicken: If you prefer chicken, simply swap the beef for boneless chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced. Chicken thighs will add a juicier texture to the stir-fry.
- Use Different Nuts: If you don’t have cashews, you can try almonds, peanuts, or even walnuts. Each nut will bring a slightly different flavor and crunch to the dish.
- Make it Spicy: If you like things spicy, you can increase the amount of chili flakes or add some fresh red chili peppers for extra heat.
- Make it Vegan: To make this dish vegan-friendly, swap the beef for tofu or tempeh, and replace the fish sauce with soy sauce or coconut aminos.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice for a low-carb version that still delivers all the flavor and texture of the original dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the stir-fry. However, fresh broccoli provides a better texture and flavor in this dish.
2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld together, and you can use it when you’re ready to cook.
3. Can I substitute the honey?
If you prefer a vegan option, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar as a substitute for honey.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews is a fantastic dish that combines savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, making it an instant favorite for any occasion. With simple ingredients and a quick preparation method, it’s the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a dinner party. The tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and crunchy cashews create a satisfying and delicious dish that everyone will enjoy. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!
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Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe for a Perfect Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews is a delicious and flavorful dish where tender beef slices are stir-fried with fresh broccoli, crispy cashews, and a savory sauce made with soy sauce, honey, orange juice, and a hint of ginger and garlic. The dish is served hot and can be paired with steamed rice or noodles, making it a complete and balanced meal.
Ingredients
- 300g beef steak, thinly sliced (flank or sirloin works well)
- 300g broccoli florets
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 25–50g roasted cashews, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp orange juice (or dry sherry for a deeper flavor)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional, for umami depth)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp vegetable or coconut oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, orange juice, honey, fish sauce, chili flakes, and a splash of water.
- Sear the beef: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Stir-fry beef until browned (about 2–3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Add remaining oil, then stir-fry onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant (1 minute).
- Add broccoli and cashews: Toss in broccoli and cashews, stir-fry for 2 minutes.
- Simmer with sauce: Pour in the sauce, cover, and simmer for 3–5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Finish: Return beef to the pan, stir everything together, and heat through for another minute.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal. Leftovers taste even better the next day!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Cashews
