Cheap beef turns rubbery in a stir fry, but grass-fed flank sliced against the grain and coated in cornstarch stays tender under high heat. Velvet the beef and blanch the broccoli in separate passes, then bring the two together only at the end so neither one overcooks.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min
Cook10 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineChinese
Cost$$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten · soy · sesame
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Flank steak
Grass-fed flank sliced thin against the grain; the grain direction is what keeps it from chewing like a rope.
VelvetToss sliced beef with 1 tbsp soy, 1 tsp cornstarch, and a splash of water. Let it sit 15 minutes so the cornstarch grips and seals the surface.
BlanchDrop broccoli into boiling water for 90 seconds, then shock in ice water. This locks the green and gets it half-cooked before it ever hits the wok.
SearGet the wok ripping hot, add oil, and spread the beef in one layer. Leave it 60 seconds to catch a sear before you toss it; crowding steams it instead.
FinishPush beef aside, add ginger and garlic for 15 seconds, then the remaining soy and a cornstarch slurry. Return broccoli, toss to coat, kill the heat and hit it with sesame oil.
Can you make Beef and Broccoli in an air fryer? — Yes
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze Beef and Broccoli? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Beef and Broccoli ahead of time? — Prep ahead
Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.
Is Beef and Broccoli gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Beef and Broccoli vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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