Vegan Beef And Broccoli is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this classic takeout dish without any animal products. This recipe utilizes savory and tender plant-based beef, cooked to perfection with crisp broccoli florets in a rich and umami sauce. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Mastering the Art of Vegan Beef and Broccoli
While the concept is simple, achieving that authentic takeout flavor requires attention to detail. The key lies in selecting the right ingredients and employing a few simple techniques to enhance the taste and texture of the dish. With the right approach, you can create a vegan beef and broccoli that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Ingredients for Vegan Beef and Broccoli
- 1 package (14 ounces) plant-based beef, sliced
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Vegan Beef and Broccoli
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, and sesame oil until smooth. Set aside.
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Cook the Plant-Based Beef: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add half of the minced garlic and half of the minced ginger, and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the plant-based beef slices and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crispy. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside.
Sizzling plant-based beef cooking in a wok. -
Sauté the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the remaining garlic and ginger, and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. You want the broccoli to still have a bit of bite to it.
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Combine and Simmer: Pour the prepared sauce over the broccoli and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the broccoli.
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Finish and Serve: Return the cooked plant-based beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the broccoli and sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through. Serve immediately over steamed rice or your favorite noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
“When choosing plant-based beef, look for options with a good texture that will hold up well in a stir-fry,” advises Chef Amelia Greene, a leading voice in the vegan culinary world. “You want something that will get nicely browned and slightly crispy on the edges, just like traditional beef.”
Tips for the Best Vegan Beef and Broccoli
- Don’t overcook the broccoli. The broccoli should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Adjust the sauce to your taste. Add more brown sugar for a sweeter sauce, or more soy sauce for a saltier flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
- Serve with your favorite sides. This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa.
A delicious plate of vegan beef and broccoli served with rice.
Vegan Beef and Broccoli: FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the skillet.
What can I use instead of plant-based beef?
If you don’t have plant-based beef on hand, you can substitute it with tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms for a different take on this classic dish. For a fun twist, try vegan rice crispy treats as a surprising but delicious protein source.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover vegan beef and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
“Adding a splash of Shaoxing wine or dry sherry to your stir-fry just before serving can enhance the complex flavors and give it that authentic restaurant-style taste,” shares Chef Greene.
This Vegan Beef and Broccoli recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish without compromising on flavor or your plant-based lifestyle. With its vibrant colors, satisfying textures, and rich umami sauce, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your weekly meal rotation.
