Chinese Beef and Broccoli

If you’re craving a classic and comforting Asian dish, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is the perfect solution. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and exactly what you need for an easy weeknight dinner that feels special without hours of effort. Tender slices of beef meet crisp, vibrant broccoli tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish never disappoints and is sure to become a kitchen favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Dinner: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Balanced Flavor: The combination of tender beef and fresh broccoli with a savory sauce creates a harmonious taste profile.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples and fresh produce with no complicated prep required.
• Nutrition Boost: Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and a satisfying crunch.
• Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a great dinner choice for all ages.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting a delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli doesn’t require a long shopping list. Each ingredient plays a key role in delivering the familiar and satisfying flavors while keeping prep straightforward and manageable.

• Beef: Flank steak or sirloin works best for tenderness and quick cooking.
• Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets provide crunch and vibrant color.
• Soy Sauce: The salty base of the sauce that enhances the dish’s umami.
• Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant punch.
• Ginger: Grated ginger brightens the flavor and adds warmth.
• Cornstarch: For thickening the sauce and giving it that glossy finish.
• Beef Broth or Water: Moistens the sauce and tenderizes the beef.
• Vegetable Oil: For quick searing of the beef and stir-frying the broccoli.
• Sugar: Balances the savory and salty elements with a hint of sweetness.

Variations for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a wonderfully flexible recipe. Feel welcome to customize it according to your tastes, dietary needs, or what you have in the kitchen. Here are some easy ways to adapt it.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap beef with tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based alternative.
• Low Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce salt to keep it heart-healthy.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or fresh sliced chili for those who like a little heat.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added crunch and color.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Marinate briefly with soy sauce, a pinch of sugar, and cornstarch to lock in juices and create a silky texture during cooking.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Quickly blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer to ice water. This step preserves their bright color and ensures they stay crisp but tender.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear quickly, just until it’s browned but not overcooked. Remove and set aside to keep it juicy.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, add a touch more oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. Then add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, and a little sugar, stirring to combine and create a flavorful sauce base.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the beef and broccoli to the pan. Stir everything together, letting the sauce thicken slightly with the help of cornstarch slurry. Cook just until everything is heated through and coated with the glossy sauce.

Pro Tips for Making Chinese Beef and Broccoli

• Slice Beef Thinly: Thinner slices cook faster and stay tender, key for stir-fry success.
• High Heat Cooking: Use a hot wok or skillet to sear the beef quickly and keep vegetables crisp.
• Don’t Skip Marinating: A brief marinate with soy and cornstarch tenderizes beef and enriches flavor.
• Blanch Broccoli: Preserves vibrant green color and perfect crunch in the final dish.
• Cornstarch Slurry: Adding this at the end thickens the sauce perfectly without making it gloopy.

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or finely sliced green onions adds a fresh, nutty finish that brightens the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve this classic with steamed jasmine rice or simple fried rice to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. For a lighter option, cauliflower rice also pairs nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, plate the beef and broccoli over a bed of crunchy noodles or even inside lettuce cups for a fun and interactive meal that’s great for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and solids together to maintain flavor and moisture.

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking the beef and broccoli, which can become dry.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes! While flank steak and sirloin are best for their tenderness and quick cooking time, you can also use ribeye or skirt steak with similar results.

Is Chinese Beef and Broccoli gluten-free?

Typically, soy sauce contains gluten, but you can make this dish gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simply mix a small amount of cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce while simmering to thicken it.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the beef with tofu, tempeh, or extra vegetables to keep the flavors vibrant while making it vegan or vegetarian friendly.

What’s the best way to slice the beef?

Freeze the beef for about 30 minutes beforehand, then use a sharp knife to slice it very thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is a true keeper. It brings together simple ingredients in a wonderfully balanced dish that feels both comforting and fresh. Easy enough for weeknights and tasty enough to impress guests, this recipe invites you to enjoy bold flavors without complicated prep. So go ahead, give it a try and savor every delicious bite!

Related Posts

• Korean Ground Beef Bowl
• Pierogi and Turkey Sausage Skillet
• Cajun Sausage Pasta

Print