Chinese Beef and Broccoli

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Introduction

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a timeless favorite that brings together tender, juicy slices of beef and vibrant, crisp broccoli in a savory, garlicky sauce. This iconic dish is celebrated in Chinese cuisine for its bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and quick preparation, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or an impressive homemade takeout option. With its balance of textures and flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in kitchens around the world.

The first time I cooked Chinese Beef and Broccoli, I was amazed at how such a simple recipe could yield restaurant-quality results. From marinating the beef to stir-frying it with fresh broccoli and a fragrant soy-based sauce, every step was quick and satisfying. The rich aroma of garlic and sesame oil filled the kitchen, and by the time it was ready, it was hard to believe it only took 30 minutes to prepare.

What I love most about Chinese Beef and Broccoli is its versatility. You can serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. It’s also easy to customize—add mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots for extra veggies, or adjust the sauce’s sweetness and heat to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish delivers a comforting and flavorful experience every time.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Meal prep
  • Quick and easy takeout alternatives
  • Family meals
  • Stir-fry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Chinese Beef and Broccoli will become a staple in your recipe rotation:

  • Tender and Flavorful Beef: Marinated beef is cooked to perfection, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
  • Rich and Savory Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Healthy and Balanced: Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to your taste preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chinese Beef and Broccoli:

  • 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • ¼ cup water or beef broth
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
  • Cooked white rice or noodles for serving

Ingredient Highlights

  • Beef Sirloin or Flank Steak: These cuts are tender and cook quickly, making them ideal for stir-fry dishes.
  • Broccoli Florets: Adds a crisp texture and balances the richness of the beef.
  • Soy Sauce: Forms the base of the savory stir-fry sauce.
  • Oyster Sauce: Adds depth and umami to the dish.
  • Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce and helps coat the beef evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef:

  1. Slice the Beef: Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
  2. Marinate the Beef: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon vegetable oil. Add the beef slices and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and water or beef broth. Set aside.

Cook the Broccoli:

  1. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 1-2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Beef:

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
  2. Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet in a single layer. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef and set aside.

Combine and Finish:

  1. Sauté Garlic and Ginger: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  3. Combine Beef and Broccoli: Return the beef and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.

How to Serve

  • With Steamed Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a classic pairing.
  • On Noodles: Spoon the beef and broccoli over cooked noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, for a hearty dish.
  • As a Stir-Fry Bowl: Combine the beef and broccoli with other stir-fried vegetables and top with a drizzle of soy sauce or hoisin for an all-in-one bowl.
  • In Lettuce Cups: Serve the beef and broccoli in crisp lettuce cups for a lighter, low-carb option.
  • With Fried Rice: Serve alongside or on top of fried rice, either plain or vegetable, for a complete meal.
  • With Egg Rolls: Pair with crispy egg rolls or spring rolls for a satisfying appetizer or side dish.
  • Over Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, serve the beef and broccoli over cauliflower rice.
  • As a Wrap: Use Chinese pancakes or tortillas to make a wrap, filling them with beef, broccoli, and sauce for a fun twist.
  • With Dumplings: Serve with steamed or pan-fried dumplings for a flavorful, multi-textured meal.
  • In a Bento Box: Serve as part of a balanced lunch with small sides like pickled vegetables, rice, and a fruit snack in a bento box.

Additional Tips

  • Slice the Beef Thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and stay tender. Partially freeze the beef for easier slicing.
  • Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Blanching keeps the broccoli crisp and bright green.
  • Use High Heat: Stir-fry on high heat for that authentic, slightly charred flavor.
  • Prep Ingredients First: Have all ingredients measured and ready to go before starting, as stir-frying happens quickly.
  • Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to thin it out.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Beef and Broccoli: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes for heat.
  2. Garlic Beef and Broccoli: Double the garlic for an extra savory punch.
  3. Teriyaki Beef and Broccoli: Replace the sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor.
  4. Mushroom Beef and Broccoli: Add sliced mushrooms to the stir-fry for additional umami.
  5. Honey Soy Beef and Broccoli: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the sauce for a touch of sweetness.
  6. Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.
  7. Cashew Beef and Broccoli: Add toasted cashews for a crunchy texture.
  8. Low-Sodium Option: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and skip the added sugar.
  9. Sesame Beef and Broccoli: Add toasted sesame oil and garnish with sesame seeds.
  10. Peanut Beef and Broccoli: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a nutty twist.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze cooked beef and broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Special Equipment

  • Wok: Ideal for high-heat cooking and even heat distribution, perfect for stir-frying.
  • Spider Strainer: Useful for quickly blanching and removing broccoli from boiling water.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife: For thinly slicing beef against the grain for tender bites.
  • Meat Tenderizer: Helps ensure the beef is soft and tender, especially for tougher cuts.
  • Mandoline Slicer: For consistent, thin slices of vegetables like carrots or onions (if adding).
  • Steamer Basket: If you prefer steaming the broccoli instead of blanching.
  • Microplane Grater: Ideal for grating fresh ginger or garlic for the marinade or sauce.
  • Small Whisk: Helps combine sauce ingredients like soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch without lumps.
  • Rice Cooker: For perfectly cooked rice to serve alongside your dish.
  • Instant-Read Thermometer: To monitor oil temperature for stir-frying, ensuring it’s hot enough but not smoking.

FAQ

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Thaw and pat dry before cooking.
  2. Can I substitute the beef? Yes, chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu are great alternatives.
  3. Can I make this gluten-free? Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
  4. What’s the best oil for stir-frying? Use oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
  5. Can I meal prep this dish? Absolutely! Store cooked beef and broccoli separately from rice or noodles for easy reheating.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that brings restaurant-quality stir-fry right to your kitchen. With tender strips of beef, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce, this meal is a satisfying option for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing dinner in a rush or craving homemade takeout, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

The tender beef and crisp broccoli are perfectly complemented by a rich, slightly sweet sauce that ties everything together, creating the ideal balance of flavors and textures in every bite. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and nourishing, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to something delicious.

I can’t wait to see how you bring this dish to life! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your version. Don’t forget to share your twists or tips in the comments. Happy cooking!

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