Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a timeless classic that consistently delights not just at restaurants but also in the comfort of home kitchens. The tender slices of beef perfectly combined with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce create an irresistible dish that’s both nourishing and appetizing. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or need a quick yet satisfying meal on a busy weeknight, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Why make this recipe

What makes this recipe special

This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about convenience, nutrition, and authenticity all in one. The beauty of Chinese Beef and Broccoli lies in its quick cooking time. With straightforward preparation and minimal cleanup, it’s the perfect solution for those weekdays when you’re short on time but still want to serve something that feels special. Plus, the balance between protein and vegetables makes it a well-rounded meal that’s both kid-approved and budget-friendly.

“I was shocked at how easy and delicious this recipe was! It tasted as good as my favorite Chinese takeout but without the long wait or high prices. A definite winner!” – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-step overview

How this recipe comes together

Making Chinese Beef and Broccoli is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll start by marinating the beef, which helps deepen the flavor. While it rests, prepare your ingredients and get everything lined up for cooking. The actual process takes mere minutes, culminating in a fragrant, delicious stir-fry that’s ready to hit your dinner table.

What you’ll need

Gather these items:

• 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or any cut of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken stock (or beef stock)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or white sugar)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 head of broccoli (cut into bite-size florets)
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)

Feel free to swap soy sauce with gluten-free alternatives or use another vegetable oil if you prefer.

Directions to follow

1. Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm thick slices or 1-cm sticks, transferring them to a small bowl.
2. Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon peanut oil, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch to the beef. Gently mix until all slices are evenly coated. Marinate for 10 minutes.
3. In another bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce and mix well.
4. Heat 1/4 cup water in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, adding the broccoli once it begins to boil. Cover and steam until tender, about 1 minute. Transfer the broccoli to a plate, wiping the skillet if needed.
5. Add 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet and heat until hot. Spread the beef in a single layer. Cook without stirring for about 30 seconds, or until browned. Flip the beef and cook briefly until lightly charred yet pink inside.
6. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
7. Return the steamed broccoli to the skillet, stir the sauce to dissolve the cornstarch, and pour it over. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
8. Serve immediately hot on a plate.

How to serve it

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving Chinese Beef and Broccoli, simplicity reigns supreme. Present it beautifully with fluffy steamed rice or fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an extra touch. For those who love a bit of heat, serve it with a side of chili oil or pickled vegetables for a delightful contrast.

Storage and reheating tips

Leftovers can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the beef tender when reheating, use a microwave on medium power, adding a splash of water or stock to maintain moisture. If you’re looking to store the dish longer, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to separate it into airtight containers.

Helpful cooking tips

Pro chef tips

1. Cut Against the Grain: Always slice the beef against the grain to ensure a tender texture.
2. Marinate: Allowing the beef to marinate even longer can deepen the flavor even more.
3. High Heat Cooking: Cooking at high heat is crucial for that perfect stir-fry texture; it gives the beef a charred exterior while keeping it juicy inside.

Creative twists

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes! Add bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color. If you’re vegetarian, switch the beef for tofu or tempeh—just make sure to marinate it well. Looking for a kick? Incorporate some Sichuan peppercorns for a spicy and floral flavor profile.

Common questions

Your questions answered

What’s the prep time for Chinese Beef and Broccoli?
Prep time is around 10-15 minutes, and cooking it takes another 10 minutes. You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in about 25 minutes!

Can I use different cuts of beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak is recommended, skirt steak or even sirloin can work well in this dish.

Is there a gluten-free option available?
Yes, you can easily swap soy sauce for gluten-free alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos.

Savor the smooth blend of flavors in this easy, homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli, and enjoy the satisfaction that comes with creating a restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen!

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

A classic dish featuring tender beef slices and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 4 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

Marinade and Sauce

• 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or any cut of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken stock (or beef stock)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or white sugar)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Vegetables

• 1 head broccoli (cut into bite-size florets)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)

Cooking Oil

• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm thick slices or 1-cm sticks, transferring them to a small bowl.
• Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon peanut oil, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch to the beef. Gently mix until all slices are evenly coated. Marinate for 10 minutes.
• In another bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce and mix well.

Cooking

• Heat 1/4 cup water in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, adding the broccoli once it begins to boil. Cover and steam until tender, about 1 minute. Transfer the broccoli to a plate, wiping the skillet if needed.
• Add 1 tablespoon oil to the skillet and heat until hot. Spread the beef in a single layer. Cook without stirring for about 30 seconds, or until browned. Flip the beef and cook briefly until lightly charred yet pink inside.
• Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
• Return the steamed broccoli to the skillet, stir the sauce to dissolve the cornstarch, and pour it over. Cook while stirring until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
• Serve immediately hot on a plate.

Notes

Leftovers can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. To keep the beef tender when reheating, use a microwave on medium power, adding a splash of water or stock to maintain moisture. If you’re looking to store the dish longer, it can be frozen for up to three months in airtight containers.

Keyword beef recipe, Chinese Beef and Broccoli, Easy Dinner, healthy meal, Stir Fry