Make no mistake, weeknight cooking challenges everyone. To reduce stress, and the temptation for take-out burgers and fries, I stock ground beef and turkey in the freezer, onions and garlic on the counter, and rice noodles, interesting sauces and marinades in the pantry. The fridge usually boasts a member of the cabbage family, a bag of carrots and fresh limes.
Worthy of take-out, this beef and broccoli stir-fry comes together in less than 30 minutes. While the microwave oven defrosts the meat, a flavorful sauce of hoisin and soy gets mixed. The cutting board fills quickly with minced garlic, ginger and onions. Packaged shredded broccoli slaw mix and carrots save time. Optional peanuts, chow mein noodles and tinned water chestnuts add crunch to the final dish….