Savory Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli) with Beef
Description
Step into the heart of deliciousness with this delightful dish inspired by a treasured recipe from my Chinese roommate. This savory blend of beef and Gai Lan (Chinese broccoli) is a feast for the senses, perfect for those who adore the robust flavors of garlic and the vibrant crunch of Chinese broccoli. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or seeking a flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, this dish promises to infuse your kitchen with irresistible aromas and create a meal your taste buds will remember. The harmony of fish sauce, soy sauce, and fresh garlic brings out the best in tender beef and crisp Gai Lan, making this recipe a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1-2 steaks, thinly sliced
- Fish Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Garlic Cloves: 6, minced
- Cooking Oil: 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
- Gai Lan (Chinese Broccoli): 4-6 stalks, washed and cut into 3-4 inch pieces
- Steamed Rice: For serving
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Instructions
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Marinate the Beef: Begin by combining the fish sauce, soy sauce, and cooking oil in a bowl. Place the thinly sliced beef into this mixture, ensuring it is well-coated. Allow the beef to marinate for about 30 minutes, letting the flavors penetrate and tenderize the meat. If the marinade doesn’t fully cover the beef, add a bit more of the mixture to ensure even coverage.
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Prepare the Gai Lan: While the beef marinates, wash the Gai Lan thoroughly. Cut it into 3-4 inch pieces, making sure to keep the leaves and stalks attached for better texture and flavor.
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Blanch the Gai Lan: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the Gai Lan pieces. Cook them in the boiling water until they reach your desired level of tenderness. For a slightly crispy texture, blanch for just a few minutes and then promptly remove from the pot. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Garlic: Heat a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add about 1 teaspoon of oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, sauté the minced garlic until it becomes lightly browned. Be cautious, as garlic can sizzle and burn quickly.
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Stir-Fry the Beef: Add the marinated beef along with its marinade to the pan with the browned garlic. Stir-fry the beef until it is cooked through and nicely caramelized. The combination of the garlic-infused oil and marinade will enhance the beef’s flavor.
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Assemble and Serve: Arrange the blanched Gai Lan on a serving plate. Top with the cooked beef, and pour any remaining sauce from the pan over the top. Serve this delicious beef and Gai Lan mixture over steamed rice.
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Enjoy: Garnish with additional chopped garlic or fresh herbs if desired. Use any leftover sauce to drizzle over the rice and vegetables for extra flavor.
Notes
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Salt Content: This dish might be quite salty for some, due to the fish sauce and soy sauce. To reduce the saltiness, consider using lite soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
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Texture Tip: For a varied texture, ensure that both the leaves and stalks of the Gai Lan are included, as the combination provides a pleasing crunch and flavor balance.
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Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice and can be complemented with a light, crisp salad or pickled vegetables.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with this flavorful Gai Lan and Beef dish, and savor the delightful aromas and tastes of this quick and easy recipe! 🌟🍚🍴