Beef and Broccoli

Method

Tap a step when it's done.

1. 1Put the beef in the freezer for 20 minutes; slightly firm meat is much easier to slice. Cut it against the grain into thin slices about 5 mm thick.
2. 2Rub the beef with the baking soda, 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp cornflour, then mix in 1 tbsp oil. Leave for 15 minutes; this is the secret to the silky texture of restaurant beef.
3. 3Mix the sauce ingredients (oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, cornflour and water) in a bowl. Blanch the broccoli in boiling salted water for 1 minute and drain right away; it should be bright green and crisp.
4. 4Heat a wok or large pan over high heat until very hot and add 1 tbsp oil. Spread half the beef in a single layer, sear for 1 minute without moving it, flip for 30 seconds more and set aside; repeat with the rest.
5. 5Add the remaining oil and stir the garlic and ginger for 20-30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. 6Stir the sauce again, pour it into the pan and cook, stirring, for 1 minute until thick and glossy. Return the beef and its juices and toss for 30 seconds until coated.
7. 7Drizzle with sesame oil, take off the heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately with hot steamed rice.