Vegetarian Beef & Broccoli

Ingredients

This vegetarian version of Beef & Broccoli replaces the beef with plant-based protein, such as tofu or seitan, to maintain the dish's heartiness. The traditional oyster sauce is substituted with a vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce, ensuring a rich umami flavor. Additionally, vegetable broth is used instead of beef broth to enhance the vegetarian profile. We alse have the original recipe for Beef & Broccoli, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetarian oyster sauce 2 tablespoons vegetarian oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 cups (200g) broccoli florets 2 cups (200g) broccoli florets
• 1 cup (150g) sliced carrots 1 cup (150g) sliced carrots
• 1 cup (150g) sliced bell peppers 1 cup (150g) sliced bell peppers
• 1 cup (200g) plant-based protein (tofu or seitan), sliced 1 cup (200g) plant-based protein (tofu or seitan), sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 1.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Set aside.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
5. 5.
   Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the plant-based protein slices to the other side. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
6. 6.
   Pour the sauce mixture over the vegetables and plant-based protein. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
8. 8.
   Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
9. 9.
   Serve the Vegetarian Beef & Broccoli over steamed rice or noodles.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tofu — Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before slicing to ensure a firmer texture.
• Seitan — If using store-bought seitan, rinse it under cold water to remove any excess saltiness before slicing.
• Vegetarian oyster sauce — Look for a vegetarian version made from mushrooms or soybeans for an authentic flavor.
• Broccoli — Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before stir-frying to retain their vibrant green color.
• Cornstarch — Mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce for a smoother consistency.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add additional red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce.
• Customize the vegetable selection based on seasonal availability.
• Add a handful of cashews or peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for a visually appealing presentation.
• Experiment with different plant-based proteins like tempeh or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for variety.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegetarian Beef & Broccoli over steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal. Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the vibrant stir-fried vegetables and plant-based protein on a bed of fluffy white rice or nestle them alongside a mound of noodles. Drizzle the sauce over the top and garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a sprig of fresh herbs for an enticing presentation.