Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Steps

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1. 1
   Slice the beef against the grain using a diagonal cutting technique, creating uniform thin pieces that are thick enough to maintain their structure. Trim excess fat from the slices.
   ▶ ≈0:48
2. 2
   Place the beef slices in a bowl and mix with soy sauce for color and seasoning, Shaoxing wine for aroma, a pinch of baking soda, sugar, egg, and cornstarch. Massage the mixture thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated with a protective layer. Let rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour, drizzling with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
   ▶ ≈1:54
3. 3
   Cut broccoli into uniform florets. Peel the broccoli stems and slice thinly. Peel the carrot and use a crosshatch cutting technique to create decorative flower-shaped slices.
   ▶ ≈3:15
4. 4
   Bring a pot of water to boil and add salt. Blanch the broccoli in the boiling water for 15–20 seconds to partially cook it while retaining nutrients. Immediately transfer to ice water to shock-cool and maintain crispness.
   ▶ ≈4:27
5. 5
   Heat a wok or large pan over medium-high heat and add oil. When the oil is hot enough, carefully place the marinated beef slices into the wok (you should hear a distinct sizzle). Avoid stirring immediately—let the meat develop a seared surface. Use chopsticks to gently turn the pieces to avoid damaging the coating. Cook until about 70–80% done.
   ▶ ≈5:50
6. 6
   Push the beef to the side of the wok. Add garlic slices, ginger slices, and scallion pieces, stirring until fragrant. Pour in oyster sauce, soy sauce, a pinch of sugar, and rice vinegar (for aroma, not acidity). Add chicken stock.
   ▶ ≈7:04
7. 7
   Add the carrot slices. Drain the blanched broccoli thoroughly and add it to the wok. Toss everything together until the broccoli is fully cooked and the ingredients are well combined.
   ▶ ≈7:43
8. 8
   Prepare a slurry by mixing potato starch with a small amount of cold water. Drizzle it into the wok while stirring constantly. Ensure the glossy sauce coats all ingredients evenly without lumping.
   ▶ ≈8:03
9. 9
   Drizzle in sesame oil to boost aroma. Optionally add chili for heat according to taste preference. Toss everything one more time to distribute the sesame oil evenly, then plate and serve.
   ▶ ≈8:30