Arab-style Beef & Broccoli

Ingredients

In this Arab adaptation of Beef & Broccoli, the original Chinese flavors are replaced with a blend of Arabic spices, such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. The dish maintains the essence of the original by combining tender beef and crisp broccoli, but the spices and cooking techniques used in Arab cuisine give it a distinct Middle Eastern twist. We alse have the original recipe for Beef & Broccoli, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef sirloin, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons water
• 2 heads of broccoli, cut into florets 2 heads of broccoli, cut into florets

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the beef slices, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate pot, bring the beef broth to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add the slurry to the skillet with the beef, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
5. 5.
   Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet and toss gently to coat it with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the flavors meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve the Arab-style Beef & Broccoli hot with steamed rice or Arabic bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — For a more tender result, slice the beef against the grain.
• Broccoli — To retain its vibrant color and crispness, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for a minute before adding it to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• For a touch of freshness, squeeze some lemon juice over the dish before serving.
• You can substitute beef with chicken or lamb for a variation in flavors.
• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less cornstarch slurry.
• Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Arab-style Beef & Broccoli over a bed of steamed rice or with warm Arabic bread. It pairs well with a side of tangy pickles or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the beef slices and broccoli florets on a platter, drizzle the sauce over them, and sprinkle with sesame seeds or fresh herbs for an appealing presentation. Serve it family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves.