Beef with Broccoli

INGREDIENTS:

• 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 frozen broccoli florets, thawed
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/3 cup water 

Special equipment: a well-seasoned 14-inch flat-bottomed wok

(Optional) Rice, Fresh Cilantro Sprigs

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Toss together cornstarch, salt, pepper, and beef in a bowl until meat is coated.
2. 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. 
3. Transfer with a slotted spoon to another bowl and keep warm, loosely covered with foil.
4. 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 2 minutes.
5. Add soy sauce and water and bring to a boil. Return meat to skillet and cook, stirring, until sauce is thickened, about 2 minutes