Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe

If you have ever craved that perfect balance of tender, flavorful beef paired with crisp, vibrant broccoli, you are going to fall in love with this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe. It’s a classic dish that combines simple ingredients with technique to create a stir-fry that’s juicy, savory, and just a little bit sweet, all coated in a luscious sauce. This recipe brings the restaurant favorite right into your kitchen, making weeknight dinners feel special and satisfying with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component is essential, adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that come together perfectly in the final dish.

• 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak: These cuts are tender and soak up marinade flavors beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Offers a salty, umami base to tenderize and flavor the beef.
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil): Has a high smoke point perfect for quick, hot cooking without burning.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Coats the beef to lock in moisture and create a silky texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional): Helps tenderize the beef if you have a little extra time.
• 1/2 cup chicken or beef stock: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry): Injects an authentic aromatic note.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Enhances the savory flavors in the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce: Provides color and a slight sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or white sugar): Balances the salty and savory with a gentle sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish.
• 1 head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets: Adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil): For stir-frying the broccoli and aromatics.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Releases a fragrant punch.
• 2 teaspoons ginger, minced: Adds warmth and a zesty zing.

How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Beef

Begin by slicing the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness, aiming for about a quarter-inch thickness or half-inch strips. Toss these slices with soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch, mixing gently by hand so every piece gets a delicate coating. Let this marinade work its magic for at least 10 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

Whisk together the chicken or beef stock, Shaoxing wine, soy sauces (regular and dark), brown sugar, and cornstarch in a medium bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, creating that characteristic glossy glaze that clings to the beef and broccoli.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

Pour about a quarter cup of water into a large nonstick skillet and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets, cover the pan, and steam them just until they’re tender but still vibrant green, about one minute. Immediately transfer the broccoli to a plate and dry the pan carefully with a paper towel to keep things crisp during the stir-fry.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add peanut oil to the skillet, swirling to coat, then heat over medium-high until shimmering. Spread the marinated beef in a single layer without crowding. Let it sear untouched for about 30 seconds until the bottom side develops a beautiful brown crust. Flip and cook the other side just until lightly charred but keep the center slightly pink for maximum tenderness.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Throw in the minced garlic and ginger, giving everything a few quick stirs. These ingredients awaken the senses with their bright, fragrant notes and build wonderfully on the sizzling beef flavor.

Step 6: Combine Everything and Finish

Return the broccoli to the skillet. Stir the pre-mixed sauce once more to make sure that cornstarch is fully dissolved before pouring it over the beef and broccoli. Cook everything together while stirring until the sauce thickens into a shiny coating—this should only take about a minute. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe, consider sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions on top. These little accents add texture contrast and a pop of color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up every bit of the tasty sauce. For a lighter touch, try serving it alongside a simple cucumber salad or steamed dumplings for a full Chinese-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more modern presentation, serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of cauliflower rice or spiralized noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist that keeps things exciting and flavorful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, your Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your dish, it’s best to do so without the broccoli, as it can become mushy. Freeze the beef and sauce in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This will help revive the sauce’s silky texture and keep the beef tender without drying it out.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe?

Flank steak or skirt steak is ideal because these cuts are fibrous enough to hold marinades but tender when sliced thinly against the grain, giving you tender, flavorful bites.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Fresh broccoli is preferred for its texture and color, but you can use frozen if you steam and drain it well to avoid extra moisture in the stir-fry.

Is Shaoxing wine necessary, or can I substitute it?

Shaoxing wine adds authentic depth and aroma, but dry sherry is an excellent substitute if you don’t have it on hand. You can also omit it but expect slightly less complexity in flavor.

How do I avoid the beef becoming tough?

Marinate the beef properly, slice thinly against the grain, and cook it quickly over high heat. Avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender and juicy.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace beef with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable stock in the sauce for a delicious vegetarian take on this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both comforting and impressive, a perfect mix of simple ingredients and quick steps that deliver stunning results. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to meal. Give it a try—you won’t regret bringing this vibrant, saucy stir-fry into your kitchen!

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