There’s a certain joy that comes from creating a home-cooked feast that’s both vibrant and comforting, and Chinese Beef and Broccoli checks both boxes with flying colors. This recipe brings together tender slices of flank steak and crisp-tender broccoli florets in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that clings to every bite. With just a 15-minute preparation time and a quick 10-minute cooking sprint, you’ll have a dinner on the table in under half an hour—perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. It’s also beginner-friendly, so even if you’re new to stir-frying, you’ll find the steps straightforward and satisfying. At around 400 calories per serving, this dish manages to marry indulgence with a nod to health, giving you hearty protein and plenty of green veggies without weighing you down.
Beyond its ease, what really elevates this stir-fry is the harmony of textures and flavors. Thinly sliced beef absorbs the rich umami of soy sauce and oyster sauce, while a hint of sugar rounds it out for a gentle balance. Fresh garlic and ginger add aromatic warmth, and a splash of rice wine or dry sherry injects a subtle complexity. As for the broccoli, it retains a lively crunch when stir-fried just right, creating a playful contrast to the silky sauce-coated beef. Whether you’re serving it over steaming jasmine rice or a nest of slippery noodles, each forkful is a delightful dance of taste and texture that’s bound to become a new family favorite.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHINESE BEEF AND BROCCOLI
To build this classic stir-fry, you’ll need a handful of straightforward ingredients that pack serious flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from creating an irresistible sauce to ensuring the beef and broccoli cook to perfection.
- Flank steak
A lean, flavorful cut that benefits from slicing against the grain. When marinated, it soaks up the savory sauce and cooks quickly, staying tender rather than tough.
- Soy sauce
The backbone of the stir-fry sauce, delivering salty umami depth and helping to tenderize the meat.
- Oyster sauce
Offers a round, slightly sweet umami boost that enriches the overall flavor and gives the sauce its characteristic sheen.
- Cornstarch
Coats the beef, aiding in moisture retention and creating a glossy, thickened sauce that clings beautifully to both meat and broccoli.
- Vegetable oil
Provides a neutral frying medium that withstands high heat—essential for achieving that quick, seared “wok hei” effect.
- Sesame oil
Added later for its nutty aroma and depth; a little goes a long way in elevating the final dish.
- Broccoli
Brings vibrant color and a crisp-tender bite. It soaks up the sauce flavors while still maintaining structure.
- Garlic
Minced and added early for pungent heat and aroma that underpins the savory notes of the stir-fry.
- Ginger
Freshly grated to infuse a subtle zing, working in harmony with the garlic to brighten the entire dish.
- Beef broth
Acts as a flavorful liquid base for the sauce, enriching it with extra meaty notes.
- Rice wine (or dry sherry)
Adds acidity and complexity, lifting the flavors and cutting through richness.
- Sugar
Balances the saltiness and rounds out the sauce for a perfectly harmonious profile.
- Salt and pepper
Used sparingly to taste, enhancing all the natural flavors without overwhelming them.
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
For those who like a touch of heat, these add a subtle kick that keeps every bite lively.
HOW TO MAKE CHINESE BEEF AND BROCCOLI
Let’s dive into the heart of this recipe: a swift stir-fry that captures the essence of classic Chinese takeout, made fresh in your own kitchen. You’ll master essential techniques—marinating, searing, deglazing, and finishing—while layering flavors seamlessly. Ready? Let’s stir, sizzle, and serve.
1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix thoroughly so each slice is evenly coated, then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step not only seasons the meat but also helps tenderize it.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and stir-fry until the edges are just browned, about 2–3 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan so you get that signature sear. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. In the same pan, pour in the sesame oil. As soon as it’s hot, quickly add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to let them burn.
4. Toss in the broccoli florets and continue stir-frying for 4–5 minutes. You want the broccoli to be tender-crisp, maintaining a bright green color and slight snap when bitten.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together the beef broth, rice wine (or dry sherry), and sugar in a small bowl. Pour this sauce mixture over the broccoli, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan to add extra depth.
6. Return the beef to the wok. Stir everything together and cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat all the ingredients. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you crave a bit of heat.
7. Serve the stir-fry hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside your favorite noodles, garnishing with extra pepper flakes or a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHINESE BEEF AND BROCCOLI
When it’s time to bring this flavorful stir-fry to the table, the way you present and pair it can make all the difference. Whether you’re aiming for cozy family dinners or impressing friends at a casual dinner party, these ideas will help you plate and enjoy your dish to its fullest.
- Classic rice pairing
Serve the beef and broccoli over a mound of steaming jasmine or basmati rice. The fragrant grains soak up the sauce perfectly, balancing each bite with a fluffy, neutral base.
- Noodle bowl upgrade
Swap out rice for silk-like rice noodles or udon. Toss cooked noodles with a touch of sesame oil before adding the stir-fry on top for an elegant noodle bowl that’s both hearty and harmonious.
- Family-style sharing platter
Arrange the stir-fry on a large, shallow platter garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Let everyone dig in with chopsticks or forks for a communal, festive vibe.
- Garnish accents
Brighten the dish with fresh cilantro leaves, thinly sliced red chilies, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. These final touches add color, texture, and bursts of flavor that delight the senses.
HOW TO STORE CHINESE BEEF AND BROCCOLI
Whether you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, proper storage ensures your Beef and Broccoli retains its delicious texture and taste. Follow these tips to keep every serving as irresistible as when it first came off the stove.
- Refrigerate in airtight containers
Transfer cooled leftovers into sealable, airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce and vegetables tightly contained prevents moisture loss and flavor fading.
- Freeze for longer storage
For meal prep, portion the cooled stir-fry into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to avoid freezer burn. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Store sauce separately
If you anticipate enjoying leftovers with fresh broccoli, separate the beef and sauce from the veggies before storing. This prevents the broccoli from becoming soggy in the fridge or freezer.
- Gentle reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Warm gently in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to redistribute sauce and restore texture. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent overcooking.
CONCLUSION
Bringing together tender strips of marinated flank steak, crisp-tender broccoli, and a glossy, savory sauce, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe checks all the boxes for a quick, satisfying dinner that sings with umami flavor. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a 10-minute sizzle in the wok, you’ll master the art of stir-frying even if you’re new to Asian cuisine. From the careful marinade that infuses the beef to the aromatic garlic-ginger base and the final touch of rice wine sweetness, every step layers depth and excitement. Whether you opt for rice, noodles, or a communal serving platter, your family and friends will love the vibrant flavor and bold contrasts in every bite.
Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder for easy reference—and don’t forget, you’ll find a FAQ section just below to answer any lingering questions. If you give this dish a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment with your cooking adventures, any tweaks you made, or questions you encounter along the way. Your feedback not only helps me but also builds a community of enthusiastic home cooks ready to share tips and stories. Happy stir-frying!
Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Description
This vibrant stir-fry melds tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, creating a delightful dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect over rice or noodles!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well, ensuring each piece of beef is coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
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Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until it's just browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
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In the same pan, add sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
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Add the broccoli florets to the pan. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
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In a small bowl, mix together the beef broth, rice wine (or sherry), and sugar. Pour this sauce mixture over the broccoli.
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Return the beef to the pan. Mix everything together and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and thicken the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
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Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Note
- Flank steak is ideal for this dish due to its tenderness and flavor.
- Oyster sauce adds an essential umami flavor, enhancing the dish's authenticity.
- Adjust the sugar level according to your taste preference.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety.
- Using a wok for cooking helps in achieving that classic smoky flavor (called "wok hei").
