Christmas is just around the corner. The pandemic has affected how we celebrate Christmas. It’s very different compared to the previous holiday celebrations. We are advised to limit social gatherings and most especially some have no choice but to celebrate the season in their own homes. This may be very hard for others who are used to travelling elsewhere during the holidays. Many may feel bored in their homes celebrating this special season. But you can prevent this boredom by doing things differently that will keep you busy, inspired and entertained. This will surely get the holiday spirit in every home. This is the time to be creative in your own home. Activities like baking, cleaning, redecorating your home by putting new drapes can be done when you stay at home during the holidays.
The one common activity that most people will be doing this holiday will be preparing and cooking wonderful dishes. Try out these easy to cook recipes that will surely make your holiday table so much fun.

Lighter Beef and Broccoli

A streamlined version of the popular Chinese dish. This dish is almost as quick as ordering takeout.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cook about 15 minutes
Ingredients:
1 large bunch broccoli (About 11/2 pounds)
1 pound beef tenderloin steaks, trimmed and thinly cut into 1/8 inch thick strips.
3 garlic gloves, crushed
1 tablespoon grated and peeled fresh ginger
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
¼ teaspoon of olive oil
1 cup chicken broth
3 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon sesame oil

Cut broccoli flowers into pieces. Peel broccoli stems and cut into ¼ inch thick diagonal slices.  In a nonstick pan boil over a medium high heat 2 cups of water. Add the broccoli and cook for 3 minutes, uncovered or until tender crisp. Drain the water and set aside. Wipe the skillet dry. In a medium bowl, toss the beef with garlic, ginger and crushed red pepper. Add ½ teaspoon of olive oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add half of the beef mixture and cook for 2 minutes or until beef just loses its pink color throughout, stirring quickly and frequently. Transfer the beef to a plate. Repeat with remaining ½ teaspoon of olive oil and beef mixture. In a cup , mix both broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil until blended. Return cooked beef to skillet. Stir in cornstarch mixture, heat to boiling. Cook for 1 minute or until sauce thickens slightly, continue stirring. Add broccoli and toss to coat.