Stir-fried beef, broccoli and yams

Stir-fried beef, broccoli, and yams combines tender beef with crispy broccoli and sweet potato, creating a balance of sweet and savory flavors. This quick dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.

21 Jan 2026
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1 sweet potato
1/4 cup water
1 stalk flank steak
9 tsp brown sugar
3 tbsp oyster sauce
1.50 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp red pepper (spice)
4 cups broccoli
2 tsp ginger root
2.50 tbsp sesame oil

Stir-fried beef, broccoli, and yams is a delightful combination of tender beef, crispy broccoli, and sweet yams, all brought together in a harmonious melody of sweet and savory flavors. This dish is perfect for a quick, nutritious, and delicious weeknight meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potato:
- Peel and cube the sweet potato.
- Place the sweet potato cubes in a microwave-safe bowl, add the 1/4 cup of water, cover, and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Beef Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, combine 9 tsp of brown sugar, 3 tbsp of oyster sauce, 1.5 tbsp of cornstarch, and 1/4 tsp of crushed red pepper. Mix well until the sugar and cornstarch are dissolved.
- Add the thinly sliced flank steak to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to marinate.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Heat 1 tbsp of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced ginger and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until they are vibrant green and tender-crisp.
- Add the microwaved sweet potato cubes and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.

4. Cook the Beef:
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1.5 tbsp of sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated flank steak to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the beef is browned and cooked through.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the broccoli and sweet potato mixture to the skillet with the cooked beef. Toss everything together and stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes to combine and heat through.

6. Serve:
- Transfer the stir-fried beef, broccoli, and yams to a serving dish.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!

This stir-fried beef, broccoli, and yams recipe is a delectable and wholesome choice for any mealtime. The flavors mingle beautifully, and the preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent option for both novice and experienced cooks.

Stir-fried beef, broccoli and yams FAQ:

What is the best way to know when the beef is done cooking?

The beef is done when it is browned on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should be firm to the touch, but not overly tough. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve this.

How should I store leftover stir-fried beef, broccoli, and yams?

Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Can I substitute the flank steak with a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with other cuts such as sirloin or ribeye, or even chicken or tofu for a non-beef variation. Adjust cooking times accordingly, especially for chicken.

What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

You can substitute oyster sauce with soy sauce mixed with a little sugar for sweetness, or use a vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms if you prefer a plant-based option.

How long should I cook the broccoli to ensure it's tender-crisp?

Stir-fry the broccoli for about 3-5 minutes until it is vibrant green and still slightly firm. Taste a piece to ensure it’s cooked to your liking, as cooking times may vary depending on the heat level.

Tips:

- Preparation: Prepare all ingredients in advance. Chop the sweet potato, broccoli, and flank steak into bite-sized pieces, and grate or finely chop the ginger root for ease during cooking.

- Cooking Order: Cook the sweet potatoes first as they take longer to soften. Once they are nearly tender, add the beef to ensure it remains juicy and tender.

- Heat Control: Maintain a medium-high heat throughout the stir-frying process to ensure the beef cooks quickly while staying tender, and the vegetables retain their crispiness.

- Cornstarch Usage: Mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry before adding it to the dish. This will help thicken the sauce evenly without clumping.

- Serving Suggestion: Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat, and pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 250kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 2.77g
Sugar 12g
Fat 12g

Stir-fried beef, broccoli and yams