Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe

Sizzling Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe for Dinner Magic

Savory beef and broccoli lo mein noodles dance with vibrant flavors that instantly spark culinary excitement.

Tender strips of meat mingle alongside crisp green florets in a delightful stir-fry experience.

Weeknight dinners become extraordinary with this quick and satisfying meal.

Pantry staples transform into a restaurant-quality dish that feels like a personal cooking triumph.

Slippery noodles catch rich sauce while protein and vegetables create perfect balance.

Crunchy broccoli adds texture against silky strands of pasta and succulent beef.

You’ll want to dive right into this delectable creation that promises comfort and convenience in every single bite.

Why Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Steals the Spotlight

  • Quick Weeknight Savior: Tackle dinner with this speedy one-pan marvel that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in minutes.
  • Flavor-Packed Nutrition Boost: Packed with protein from beef and vitamins from broccoli, this dish delivers a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and nutritional needs.
  • Customizable Culinary Adventure: Easily swap proteins, adjust spice levels, or add extra vegetables to make this recipe perfectly suited to your family's taste preferences.
  • Minimal Cleanup Champion: Using just one wok means less dishwashing and more time enjoying your delicious creation with loved ones.

What You’ll Need for Bold Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

Main Ingredients:
  • Beef: A protein-rich meat that provides hearty flavor and texture to the dish.
  • Lo Mein Noodles: Soft wheat noodles that form the base of this classic Asian-inspired meal.
  • Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that adds crunch and vibrant color to the recipe.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Rice Wine Vinegar: A combination of umami-rich condiments that create a deep and complex flavor profile.
  • Honey: A natural sweetener that balances the savory elements of the dish.
  • Cornstarch: A thickening agent that helps create a smooth and glossy sauce.
Aromatic Ingredients:
  • Onions, Garlic, Ginger: A traditional Asian flavor base that provides depth and fragrance to the stir-fry.
  • Sesame Oil: A rich, nutty oil that enhances the overall taste and authenticity of the dish.

Easy Steps for Savory Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

Step 1: Boil Noodles

Cook lo mein noodles in a large pot of boiling water following package directions. Drain completely and set aside in a separate bowl.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Sauce

Whisk together in a mixing bowl:
  • Soy sauce
  • Oyster sauce
  • Honey
  • Rice wine vinegar

Blend cold water and cornstarch in a separate small bowl to create a smooth slurry. Slowly incorporate the slurry into the sauce mixture and let it rest.

Step 3: Marinate Beef

Combine beef with:
  • Soy sauce
  • Cornstarch
  • Rice wine vinegar
  • Ginger powder

Let the beef sit and absorb flavors for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 4: Sear Beef

Heat sesame oil in a wok over high heat.

Cook beef quickly until it reaches desired doneness. Transfer beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

In the same wok, sauté:
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Ginger

Cook until aromatic. Add broccoli and stir-fry until slightly tender and bright green.

Step 6: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Add cooked noodles to the wok. Gradually pour sauce while continuously stirring to ensure even coating.

Step 7: Final Toss

Return beef to the wok. Toss all ingredients together and cook for additional 2 minutes to blend flavors thoroughly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer beef and broccoli lo mein to serving plates. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for the Tastiest Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

  • Marinate beef in advance for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderize the meat, ensuring a more delicious result.
  • Use high heat when searing beef to lock in juices and create a nice caramelized exterior without overcooking.
  • Stir-fry broccoli quickly to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp texture, avoiding mushy vegetables.
  • Gradually add sauce while stirring to prevent clumping and ensure even coating of noodles and ingredients.
  • For a gluten-free option, swap regular soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Flavor Ideas to Tweak Your Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

  • Spicy Sichuan Style: Replace rice wine vinegar with chili oil and add Sichuan peppercorns for a fiery kick. Incorporate red pepper flakes to boost heat levels and create a bold, numbing flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute beef with firm tofu or tempeh, using same marinade. Press tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture and ensure better sauce absorption.
  • Coconut Thai Fusion: Add coconut milk to sauce mixture and replace sesame oil with coconut oil. Include fresh Thai basil and lemongrass for an aromatic Southeast Asian transformation.
  • Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Swap traditional noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles. Reduce cornstarch in sauce and use less honey to maintain lighter, healthier approach.

Great Pairings for Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein

  • Boost Umami with Sake: Crisp, dry Japanese sake amplifies the savory beef and broccoli flavors, cutting through the richness while complementing the soy sauce marinade.
  • Enhance Texture with Pickled Cucumber Salad: Tangy, crunchy cucumber pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty lo mein, adding brightness and cleansing the palate between bites.
  • Complement Richness with Jasmine Green Tea: Light, slightly floral jasmine green tea balances the dish's robust flavors, helping to digest the protein-packed meal and cleanse the palate.
  • Balance Meal with Asian Pear Slaw: Crisp, sweet Asian pear slaw introduces a cool, fruity element that offsets the warm, salty lo mein, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

How to Store Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Without Losing Flavor

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Freeze: Transfer beef and broccoli lo mein to freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Microwave Reheating: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to ensure even warming.
  • Stovetop Reheating: Warm the lo mein in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of soy sauce or water to revive moisture and restore the original flavor.

Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein FAQs You’ll Want to Know

  • Why marinate the beef before cooking?

Marinating helps tenderize the meat, infuse flavors, and ensure the beef remains juicy and flavorful during high-heat cooking.

  • Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, you can substitute lo mein noodles with other Asian noodles like egg noodles, udon, or even spaghetti for a similar texture and taste.

  • Is cornstarch important in this recipe?

Cornstarch is crucial for creating a smooth sauce and helps thicken the liquid while giving a glossy finish to the dish. It also helps coat the beef and prevents it from becoming tough.

  • What if I don't have rice wine vinegar?

You can substitute rice wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, which will provide a similar tangy flavor to the dish.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe

Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savor the irresistible Beef and Broccoli Lo Mein, a delightful fusion of tender meat and crisp vegetables dancing with rich, savory sauce. Comfort meets convenience in this quick, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) flank steak or sirloin
  • 16 ounces (454 grams) spaghetti or lo mein noodles
  • 16 ounces (454 grams) broccoli florets

Protein and Seasoning:

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup diced onions
  • 1/8 cup diced garlic
  • 1/8 cup diced ginger

Sauce and Slurry:

  • 3/4 cup low-sodium dark soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup honey or brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup oyster sauce
  • 1/8 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon browning sauce (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. Prepare lo mein noodles according to package directions, ensuring they are al dente. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
  2. Create a complex sauce by whisking soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and rice wine vinegar in a mixing container. Blend cold water with cornstarch to form a smooth slurry, then incorporate into the sauce mixture.
  3. Tenderize beef strips with a marinade of soy sauce, cornstarch, rice wine vinegar, and ginger powder. Allow to rest for minimum 30 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
  4. Heat sesame oil in a wok at high temperature. Quickly sear marinated beef until edges caramelize and meat reaches desired doneness. Transfer to a separate plate.
  5. Without cleaning the wok, sauté aromatic ingredients – onions, garlic, and ginger – until fragrant and translucent. Introduce broccoli florets, stir-frying rapidly to maintain crisp texture.
  6. Incorporate cooked noodles into the vegetable mixture, gradually pouring prepared sauce while continuously tossing to ensure uniform coating.
  7. Reintroduce seared beef into the wok, gently combining all components. Simmer for 2 minutes to harmonize flavors and temperatures.
  8. Plate immediately while steaming hot, ensuring a vibrant presentation of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and glossy noodles.

Notes

  • Maximize flavor by marinating beef for at least an hour, allowing the ginger and soy sauce to deeply penetrate the meat for more intense taste.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting regular noodles with rice noodles or zucchini noodles, and using tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.
  • Control spice levels by adding red pepper flakes or sriracha for those who enjoy heat, making the dish adaptable to different palate preferences.
  • Prep ingredients beforehand to ensure quick cooking, keeping the wok hot and preventing overcooking of beef and broccoli, which can make them tough and lose their vibrant textures.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 700
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 1200 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 90 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star