Ingredients

• 1 to 1.25 pounds flank steak, sliced into thin strips, no more than 1/4-inch thick
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
• 1 to 2 teaspoons ginger, or to taste (fresh or dried is okay, use less dried than you would fresh)
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ½ cup water
• ¾ cup dark brown sugar, packed (light may be substituted)
• 4 to 6 cups broccoli florets, dependent on preference for broccoli
• 2 to 3 green onions, sliced into 1/4-inch long segments
• red pepper flakes, optional and to taste
• sesame seeds, optional for garnishing

Instructions

1. Place the sliced steak and cornstarch in a large ziptop bag. Seal and shake until the beef is evenly coated. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Warm over medium-high heat for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Avoid letting the garlic brown.
3. Stir in the soy sauce, water, and brown sugar. Mix until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce reduces slightly and thickens. While the sauce simmers, cook the steak.
4. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high to high heat. Add the steak and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally so the pieces cook evenly, until done.
5. Add the broccoli to the skillet.
6. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the beef and broccoli (it will bubble vigorously). Toss to coat everything thoroughly. Continue cooking over medium-high heat for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the broccoli reaches your preferred level of tenderness.
7. Optional thickening step: If the sauce is thinner than you’d like and the broccoli is nearly done, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water to create a slurry. Stir it into the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, until the sauce thickens. (Using 6 cups of broccoli may release extra moisture, which can thin the sauce.)
8. Remove from heat. Stir in the green onions.
9. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and sesame seeds before serving. Serve immediately.

• Best enjoyed hot and freshly made.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.