Quick Beef with Broccoli

1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3/4 pound sirloin beef tips, sliced against the grain 1/8 inch thick
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
10 ounces fresh or frozen (thawed) broccoli florets
3 garlic cloves, chopped
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1/3 cup water

Accompaniment: rice

Toss together cornstarch, salt, pepper and beef in a bowl until meat is coated.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in wok over moderately high heat until hot, but not smoking, then stir-fry beef until just cooked through, about 1 minute. Transfer with a slotted spoon to another bowl and keep warm, loosely covered with foil.

Add remaining tablespoon oil to wok along with broccoli and garlic and stir-fry over moderately high heat until broccoli is just tender and garlic is pale golden, about two minutes.

Add soy sauce and water and bring to a boil. Return meat to skillet and cook, stirring until sauce is thickened, about two minutes.

Plate over/with one cup of white or brown rice.

Serves: 2
Start to finish: 20 minutes
Thanks to: Epicurious.com