If you are craving a classic that never fails to satisfy, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe is going to become your new weeknight favorite. Tenderly sliced flank steak mingles perfectly with crisp, vibrant broccoli, all bathed in a luscious, savory sauce with just the right touch of sweetness and umami. This dish is the perfect way to bring a restaurant-quality Chinese stir-fry right into your own kitchen without any fuss. It’s quick, full of bold flavors, and so comforting you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe lies in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain: This cut is tender and great for quick cooking, ensuring juicy beef in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps to coat the beef, locking in moisture and giving the stir-fry a silky texture.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds essential saltiness and depth of flavor to both the marinade and sauce.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Brings a rich, savory umami that makes this dish taste authentically Chinese.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Adds sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances out the saltiness with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Imparts a toasty aroma and flavor that makes this recipe truly special.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided: For stir-frying the broccoli and beef separately to retain perfect textures.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Provides a satisfying crunch and vibrant green color to brighten the dish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Essential for that fragrant garlic punch that wakes up the taste buds.
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a zingy warmth and freshness.
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water: Creates the luscious sauce that coats the beef and broccoli.
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional): Finishing touches that add texture and vibrant color.
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by tossing the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce in a medium bowl. This simple marination not only tenderizes the beef but also helps create that wonderful silky texture you love in stir-fries. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and beef broth. This sauce strikes the perfect balance between savory, sweet, and aromatic, which is what makes this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe incredibly addictive.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn bright green and become just tender. This step ensures the broccoli stays crisp and fresh. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside—this keeps the broccoli from overcooking later.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the hot pan. Stir-fry the marinated beef for 2 to 3 minutes until nicely browned but not overcooked. This high-temperature quick sear locks in juices and flavor, giving you tender slices full of savory goodness.
Step 5: Add Aromatics and Combine
Now add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the beef and cook for about 30 seconds until they release their wonderful fragrance. Return the broccoli to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and broccoli evenly. This finishing step ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh sliced green onions adds that extra layer of crunch and a pop of color that makes the dish feel complete. It’s a simple step that elevates presentation and flavor, making your dinner table shine.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You could also serve it with noodles for a comforting twist. For extra veggies, consider a light cucumber salad or some pickled radish to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try serving this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe in pretty individual bowls with a side of fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil. Another fun idea is to scoop it onto lettuce leaves for a lettuce wrap version, bringing a cool and crunchy textural contrast that is simply delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop a bit more overnight, making for a tasty meal even the next day.
Freezing
While the sauce and beef freeze well, broccoli’s texture might soften upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider storing beef and sauce separately from the broccoli. Reheat and combine just before serving to maintain that fresh crunch.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the beef and sauce gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Then toss in the broccoli at the end just until heated through to keep it crisp and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is perfect for tenderness and quick cooking, you can also use sirloin or skirt steak. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, but you can easily swap it out for tamari or other gluten-free soy sauces to make this dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the beef with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The sauce remains flavorful, making it a great meat-free alternative.
How spicy is this dish?
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe is mild by default, but you can spice it up by adding red pepper flakes, a drizzle of chili oil, or fresh sliced chili peppers during cooking.
What’s the best way to slice the beef thinly?
For the easiest slicing, place the beef in the freezer for about 15 minutes until it firms up slightly. Use a sharp knife to slice thinly against the grain, which ensures tender pieces.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests without stress. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it remains a beloved classic. So grab your skillet, gather these simple ingredients, and enjoy a flavorful journey to your favorite Chinese takeout in the comfort of your own home.
Print
Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is a classic, flavorful stir-fry featuring thinly sliced flank steak and tender broccoli florets coated in a savory sauce made with soy, oyster, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Ready in just 30 minutes, it offers a quick and satisfying homemade take on a popular Chinese takeout dish, perfect served over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Meat and Marinade
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Cooking Oils and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Set aside to marinate for 10 to 15 minutes to help tenderize the beef and create a light coating that will thicken the sauce later.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the beef marinates, mix together the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and beef broth in a small bowl until well combined. This sauce will give the dish its signature savory and slightly sweet flavor.
- Cook the Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn bright green and are just tender but still crisp. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside to prevent overcooking.
- Stir-Fry the Beef: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until the beef browns and cooks through. Make sure to keep the beef moving in the pan to ensure even cooking and to avoid sticking.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. These ingredients add a fresh depth of flavor to the dish.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked broccoli to the pan with the beef. Pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients and toss everything together. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and evenly coat the beef and broccoli.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve the beef and broccoli hot over steamed rice or your choice of noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For tender, easier-to-slice beef, freeze the flank steak for 15 minutes before slicing thinly.
- To add a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil when stir-frying the garlic and ginger.
- This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.
- Ensure the broccoli remains crisp by not overcooking during the initial stir-fry step.
