Description
Quinoa Beef and Broccoli is a wholesome and protein-packed variation of the traditional beef and broccoli dish. Ground lean beef is sautéed with fresh broccoli florets and enveloped in a flavorful homemade sauce, then served over fluffy, cooked quinoa. This dish offers a nutritious and balanced meal ideal for quick weeknight dinners or make-ahead meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Garnishes
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- Sauté Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Cook Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed to avoid greasiness.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets along with 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet. Cover and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli becomes bright green and tender-crisp.
- Combine with Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet, stirring well to coat the beef and broccoli. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Serve: Divide the cooked quinoa among serving bowls and top each with the beef and broccoli mixture.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
- For a more traditional beef and broccoli texture, substitute ground beef with thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak.
- Incorporate additional vegetables such as shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to boost nutrition and color.
- To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and verify that the hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, Lunch, Bowls, Meal Prep
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Chinese-American
