Prep your mise en place: slice the beef thin, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and have broccoli ready. The smell of garlic should accompany your coffee morning, not coffee itself.
Toss beef with cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and pepper. This light coating helps sear and keep tenderness locked in—think armor for your meat.
Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin (if using), stock, and a splash of sesame oil. Set aside. This is your sauce so don’t forget it like a sock behind the dryer.
Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add a little oil, then sear beef in batches until browned but not cooked through. Remove and set aside. Don’t crowd the pan—no steam-induced mutiny here.
In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant (but not burnt).
Add broccoli and a splash of water to steam them briefly. Cook 2–3 minutes until vibrant and crisp-tender. If using frozen, give them a minute longer.
Return beef to the pan. Pour in sauce and toss everything to coat. Cook 1–2 minutes until beef is cooked and glossy. Adjust with salt if needed.
Taste and finish with a final drizzle of sesame oil or a pinch of pepper. Serve hot over rice or noodles. Yes, this is the moment your kitchen sings.