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Looking for a tasty, Asian-inspired dish that’s quick to make? Try this Quick Beef and Broccoli Ramen Recipe. It’s a one-pan dish with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and ramen noodles in a tasty sauce. It’s ready in 20 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.
This recipe serves 4 and has a great mix of ingredients. You’ll need instant ramen, flank steak, and a sauce with soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. It’s a flavorful dish that’s easy to make.
Key Takeaways
- Easy Asian-inspired dish ready in just 20 minutes
- Perfect for quick weeknight meals
- Combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory ramen noodles
- Serves 4 people with a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic
- Versatile recipe with options to customize with additional vegetables
Why This 20-Minute Asian-Inspired Dish Is Perfect for Weeknight Dinners
Meet the 20-minute Asian-inspired beef and broccoli ramen, perfect for weeknights. It’s a quick, low-calorie meal that’s both satisfying and versatile. It’s great for those who want a tasty, balanced meal with little effort.
This dish is quick to make, needing only 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick meal prep option that’s healthy and doesn’t take up too much time. Plus, the versatile ingredients let you customize it to your liking or with what you have on hand.
| Key Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 4 servings |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Noodle Requirement | 3 oz (85 g) instant ramen noodles |
| Protein Source | ¾ lb (340 g) flank steak, thinly sliced |
| Vegetable Inclusion | 2 cups (300 g) broccoli florets |
| Sauce Ingredients | ¼ cup (60 mL) soy sauce, 1 tbsp other components |
| Nutrition Profile | 552 calories, 73g carbs, 34g protein, 14g fat per serving |
The mix of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and Asian flavors makes this dish a hit. It’s quick meal prep friendly and a low-calorie option. The versatile ingredients also make it easy to adjust for any weeknight.
“This 20-minute beef and broccoli ramen is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s a delicious, low-calorie option that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.” – Pierce Abernathy, Tasty Team
Essential Ingredients for Beef and Broccoli Ramen
To make the perfect Beef and Broccoli Ramen, you need the right ingredients. The main ingredient is the flank steak or another affordable beef cut. It should be sliced thinly for quick cooking.
Instant ramen noodles are the base, but you’ll use homemade teriyaki-style sauce instead of seasoning packets.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
Flank steak is a great choice for this recipe. It’s cheap and gets tender when sliced thinly. You can also use sirloin steak or other lean cuts. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly for the best texture and cooking time.
Noodle Options and Alternatives
- 4 (3-ounce) packages of instant ramen noodles, with the seasoning packets discarded
- Udon or soba noodles can also be used as alternatives to instant ramen
- For a gluten-free option, try using rice noodles or shirataki noodles
Sauce Components
The sauce is what makes Beef and Broccoli Ramen special. It’s a mix of savory and sweet flavors that go well with the beef and veggies. The main ingredients are:
- Soy sauce
- Hoisin or oyster sauce
- Brown sugar
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Garlic and ginger (for added aroma and depth)
This mix of sauces and seasonings gives a teriyaki-like flavor. It coats the beef and noodles beautifully.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flank or Sirloin Steak | 1 to 1 ½ pounds, sliced thin |
| Instant Ramen Noodles | 4 (3-ounce) packages |
| Soy Sauce | ⅓ cup |
| Hoisin or Oyster Sauce | ¼ cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Rice Vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Beef and Broccoli Ramen.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make this tasty Beef and Broccoli Ramen in 20 minutes, you’ll need some key tools. A large skillet or wok is crucial for stir-frying. This pan helps cook the beef and veggies quickly, keeping them colorful and crunchy.
You’ll also need a pot for boiling the ramen noodles. Use a microwave-safe bowl to steam the broccoli. This keeps it nutritious and tender. A sharp knife is needed for cutting the beef and veggies.
- Large skillet or wok for stir-frying
- Pot for boiling ramen noodles
- Microwave-safe bowl for steaming broccoli
- Sharp knife for slicing beef and vegetables
- Colander for draining noodles
- Mixing bowl for the marinade
With these tools, you’re ready to make a delicious Beef and Broccoli Ramen. Let’s start cooking!
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet or wok | Stir-frying the beef and vegetables |
| Pot | Boiling the ramen noodles |
| Microwave-safe bowl | Steaming the broccoli |
| Sharp knife | Slicing the beef and vegetables |
| Colander | Draining the cooked noodles |
| Mixing bowl | Preparing the marinade |
Meat Preparation Techniques
Getting the beef right is key to a tasty beef and broccoli ramen. To make the meat tender and full of flavor, use these important steps.
Proper Slicing Methods
Slice the beef against the grain into thin, 1/4-inch strips for the best texture. This breaks down the muscle fibers, making it tender. Freezing the beef for about 15 minutes before cutting helps. It firms up the meat, making it easier to slice.
Marination Process
Marinating the beef makes a big difference in tenderness and flavor. In this recipe, the beef is marinated in a mix of baking soda tenderizer, oyster sauce, black pepper, cornstarch, and sesame oil. This method, called “velveting,” makes the meat silky and tender. It also helps the meat soak up the dish’s savory flavors.
Beef Tenderizing Tips
- Slice the thin beef slices against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Marinate the beef for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate and the meat to tenderize.
- Consider using a baking soda tenderizer in the marinade to further improve the texture of the beef.
By using these simple steps for preparing the meat, you’ll get tender, flavorful beef. It will perfectly match the aromatic ramen broth and crisp-tender broccoli in this quick and satisfying dish.
The Perfect Marinade Recipe
Take your beef and broccoli ramen to the next level with a tasty marinade. It tenderizes the meat and adds a unique Asian flavor. The marinade mixes oyster sauce, baking soda, cornstarch, and sesame oil for a delicious taste.
To make the marinade, combine 1.5 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 0.5 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a bowl. Whisk until everything is well mixed.
- Add the sliced beef to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly.
- Cover the bowl and let the meat marinate for at least 15 minutes. Or, for even better flavor, marinate overnight.
“The marinade really takes this dish to the next level. The steak is so tender and flavorful, and the combination of ingredients just works perfectly.”
While the meat marinates, prepare the rest of your beef and broccoli ramen. This way, you’ll enjoy a tasty meal quickly.
The marinade is key to a great beef and broccoli ramen. Letting the flavors meld and the meat tenderize makes the dish unforgettable.
Creating the Signature Sauce
The secret to Beef and Broccoli Ramen’s flavor is the signature sauce. By mixing a few key ingredients, you can make a sauce that’s full of umami. This sauce will make the whole dish better. Let’s explore how to make it.
Sauce Ingredients
To make the perfect sauce, you’ll need these ingredients:
- 1.5 tablespoons of oyster sauce
- 0.5 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of ketchup
- 1 1/4 cups of water
Or, you can use 3/4 cup of teriyaki sauce for a quick option. Adjust the amounts to match your taste. You want a mix of sweet, salty, and umami.
Mixing Instructions
To make the sauce, mix all the ingredients in a bowl or cup. Whisk until everything is well combined. Taste it and adjust if needed to get the flavor you like.
The sauce is what holds the dish together. So, take your time to get it right. With a bit of trial and error, you’ll find the perfect flavor for you.
Preparing the Vegetables
To make the perfect Quick Beef and Broccoli Ramen, preparing the vegetables is key. This step adds color, crunch, and makes the meal balanced and nutritious.
Begin by cutting a head of broccoli into broccoli florets that are easy to bite. Steam these in a microwave-safe bowl for about 1.5 minutes. They should be tender but still crunchy. This steaming method keeps the broccoli fresh and full of nutrients.
- For more vegetable alternatives, try adding sliced carrots, peas, or cauliflower florets. Use about 2 cups of your favorite vegetables, cut into small pieces for even cooking.
By carefully preparing the vegetables, you’ll make a dish that looks great and tastes amazing. The steamed broccoli and other colorful veggies add flavor and a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Cooking the Ramen Noodles Perfectly
Creating a tasty Beef and Broccoli Ramen dish starts with the noodles. It’s important to cook them just right. Here are some tips to help you get it just right:
Timing Tips
Cook the ramen noodles as the package says, usually 3 to 4 minutes. This quick-cooking method keeps the noodles firm and chewy.
Texture Guidelines
- Go for an al dente texture. This means the noodles are tender but still have a bit of bite.
- Don’t overcook them. Overcooked noodles become mushy and fall apart in the stir-fry.
- Try noodle alternatives like whole grain ramen or zucchini noodles for a healthier option.
After cooking, drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water. This stops the cooking and gives you the perfect texture.
“Perfectly cooked ramen noodles are the foundation for a delicious Beef and Broccoli Ramen dish. With just a few minutes of attention, you can achieve the ideal texture that will complement the other flavors in this quick and satisfying meal.”
By following these simple tips, you’ll make a Beef and Broccoli Ramen dish that will wow your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Stir-Frying Process
To make the perfect beef and broccoli ramen, you need a precise stir-frying technique. Start by heating a large non-stick skillet over high heat. Once it’s hot, add a drizzle of oil and swirl it to coat the pan.
Next, add the marinated beef slices in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let the beef sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes to get a golden-brown high heat cooking crust. This step is crucial for locking in the browning beef flavor.
- After 2 minutes, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for an additional minute. This lets the garlic release its aroma and blend with the beef.
- Remove the beef and set it aside, leaving the flavorful pan drippings behind.
- In the same pan, add the onions and broccoli florets. Sauté the vegetables until they are lightly browned and crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 15 minutes | 30 minutes |
The key to this recipe is balancing high heat cooking, browning beef, and sautéing vegetables. This creates a perfectly caramelized, flavorful, and tender stir-fry. By following these steps, you can make restaurant-quality results at home.
“The secret to a great stir-fry is in the high-heat searing and the careful timing of each component.”
Combining All Components
The final step is to mix all the ingredients together. This needs careful timing and heat control. It ensures flavors and textures blend well, making a dish that pleases the senses.
Proper Sequencing
Start by heating the pan to medium-high. Add the cooked noodles and sauce, stirring gently. This helps the noodles absorb the sauce’s flavors, making a tasty base.
Then, add the beef and broccoli, mixing them lightly. This ensures each bite has a good mix of protein, veggies, and noodles.
Temperature Control
Keeping the pan hot is key for this quick assembly. High heat keeps noodles from getting soggy and beef and broccoli crisp. Stir and toss the mix often, letting the sauce thicken and flavors blend.
With the right timing and heat, you’ll get a dish with balanced flavors and textures. It’s a quick and delicious Asian-inspired meal that everyone will enjoy.
“The secret to a successful one-pan meal is in the careful coordination of all the components. When you get the timing and temperature just right, the flavors come together in a way that’s truly enchanting.”
Garnishing and Presentation Tips
Once your beef and broccoli ramen stir-fry is cooked, it’s time to add some finishing touches. Move the fragrant mix to a bowl or plate. Make sure to highlight the vibrant colors and textures.
Begin by adding a lot of fresh herbs on top. Use chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for color and flavor. For a crunchy and nutty touch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds.
To make it look even better, place a wedge of fresh lime on the side. The lime’s citrus will match the savory ramen’s flavors. If you like it spicy, a bit of sriracha or hot sauce can elevate the taste.
The secret to a great presentation is to let the colors and textures stand out. With careful garnishing, a simple stir-fry can become a feast for the eyes. It will make everyone want more.
| Garnishing Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Fresh cilantro | Adding color and fresh herb flavor |
| Sliced green onions | Providing a pop of color and subtle onion notes |
| Toasted sesame seeds | Enhancing crunch and nutty aroma |
| Lime wedge | Offering a bright, acidic contrast to the dish |
| Sriracha or hot sauce | Adding a kick of heat for those who desire it |
Time-Saving Shortcuts and Tips
Looking for a quick and tasty beef and broccoli ramen? Time-saving shortcuts can help a lot. Use pre-cut vegetables to make prep work easier. Frozen broccoli or pre-chopped veggies save you minutes.
Freezing the beef for 30-45 minutes before slicing is another trick. It makes slicing the meat into thin pieces easy for stir-frying. Also, prep the marinade and sauce ahead of time. This makes cooking faster when it’s time.
For quicker broccoli prep, steam it in a microwave-safe bowl for 5 minutes. This method gets your broccoli ready fast. If you’re really short on time, use pre-made teriyaki sauce. It’s quick and still tastes great.
| Ingredient | Time-Saving Tip |
|---|---|
| Vegetables | Use pre-cut, frozen, or bagged pre-chopped vegetables |
| Beef | Freeze for 30-45 minutes to easily slice into thin pieces |
| Sauce | Prepare the marinade and sauce components in advance |
| Broccoli | Steam in the microwave for a quick 5-minute cooking time |
| Teriyaki Sauce | Use a pre-made sauce instead of mixing individual ingredients |
With these meal prep and quick-thaw methods, you can make a delicious beef and broccoli ramen quickly. This leaves more time to enjoy your meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing and reheating leftovers right is key for keeping them tasty and safe. For the Quick Beef and Broccoli Ramen, following food safety tips ensures a great meal days later.
Proper Storage Methods
Put leftover ramen in an airtight container and chill it for 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and stops noodles and veggies from drying out. Make sure to eat leftovers within this time for the best taste and safety.
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat your ramen safely and well, there are a few easy steps. The microwave is quick – just put it in a safe dish, add water, and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time. Or, you can use a skillet over medium heat, adding water as needed.
Choose your reheating method, but eat leftovers in 2-3 days for top quality and safety. With these tips, you can enjoy Quick Beef and Broccoli Ramen’s flavors for days.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
This quick and easy beef and broccoli ramen dish is protein-rich and balanced. It can be customized to meet your nutritional needs. The mix of savory beef, broccoli, and ramen noodles makes for a fulfilling dinner.
Unlike fried noodle dishes, this recipe has fewer calories but still packs nutrients. A 2017 Korean study found ramen is the top instant noodle consumed globally. But, our homemade version is healthier, thanks to better ingredients and cooking methods.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 400 calories |
| Protein | 25-30 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40-45 grams |
| Fiber | 5-7 grams |
| Iron | 20-25% of the Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 30-35% of the Daily Value |
The exact nutrition may change based on ingredients and portion sizes. But, this dish is generally balanced. It has protein-rich beef, complex carbs from noodles, and broccoli’s fiber. By choosing ingredients wisely and adjusting the recipe, you can tailor it to your diet.
“Ramen noodles are often high in sodium, with the American Heart Association recommending a maximum of 2,300 milligrams (mg) per day.”
To make it healthier, use low-sodium broth and choose whole wheat or brown rice noodles. Adding fresh veggies is also a good idea. These tweaks make the dish protein-rich, balanced, and customizable to your taste.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
This quick and delicious beef and broccoli ramen recipe is very versatile. You can change it to fit your dietary needs or just to try something new. There are many ways to make this dish your own.
Vegetable Options
Broccoli is a classic with beef and ramen, but you can try other veggies too. Here are some great options:
- Snap peas
- Bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
- Mushrooms (such as shiitake or oyster)
- Cabbage or bok choy
Protein Alternatives
Want to change the protein? You can use different meats or even tofu. Here are some ideas:
- Chicken: Sliced or shredded chicken breast or thigh meat
- Pork: Thinly sliced pork tenderloin or ground pork
- Tofu: Firm or extra-firm tofu, cubed or crumbled
For a vegetarian or vegan option, swap the beef for tofu or soy-based meat. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without meat.
Also, choose gluten-free ramen noodles if you can’t have gluten. These noodles are made from rice, mung bean, or other gluten-free grains. They’re a tasty choice for your diet.
The best part of this recipe is how flexible it is. Try different veggies, proteins, and noodles to make your own version. It’s a fun way to enjoy an Asian-inspired dish.
Conclusion
This Beef and Broccoli Ramen recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. It’s easy to make and can be changed to fit your taste. Whether you’re new to cooking or experienced, it’s a great choice for a tasty Asian meal.
The recipe is great because you can change it up. Want chicken, shrimp, or tofu? You can do that. You can also try different veggies, sauces, and toppings. This way, you can make it just how you like it.
In short, this Beef and Broccoli Ramen is a fantastic choice for weeknights. It’s quick, delicious, and you can make it your own. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something comforting and Asian-inspired.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this Beef and Broccoli Ramen recipe?
You’ll need flank steak or other affordable beef cuts. Also, instant ramen noodles without the flavor packets. Add broccoli florets and a tasty sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Don’t forget garlic, onions, and optional green onions and cilantro for extra flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This Beef and Broccoli Ramen is quick, ready in just 20 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal.
What equipment is needed to make this dish?
You’ll need a large skillet or wok for stir-frying and a pot for boiling noodles. A microwave-safe bowl is good for steaming broccoli. Basic tools like a knife for cutting beef and veggies are essential. A colander for draining noodles and a mixing bowl for the marinade are also handy.
How do I properly prepare the beef for this recipe?
Freeze the beef for 15 minutes to make slicing easier. Cut it against the grain for tenderness. Then, marinate it with baking soda, oyster sauce, black pepper, cornstarch, and sesame oil. This “velveting” method helps the beef absorb flavors better.
Can I make substitutions or variations to this recipe?
Yes, you can get creative with this recipe. Try using chicken, pork, or tofu for different proteins. For a vegetarian option, add more veggies or use extra-firm tofu. If you’re gluten-free, swap ramen for gluten-free noodles. Feel free to add other veggies like snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
How do I store and reheat the leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each. Or, reheat in a pan over medium heat. If it’s too dry, add a bit of water. Eat leftovers within 2-3 days for the best taste.
What are the nutritional benefits of this dish?
This dish is a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fiber. It’s lower in calories than fried noodle dishes. It’s also rich in iron, vitamin C, and B vitamins.
