As the fragrant aroma of sizzling beef fills my kitchen, I feel an overwhelming sense of comfort and nostalgia. This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe has become my go-to dish, capturing all the essence of beloved take-out favorites without the guilt. With tender, juicy beef and vibrant broccoli bathed in a rich, glossy sauce, this meal brings the taste of a restaurant right to your table in just 30 minutes. Not only is it incredibly quick to whip up, but it’s also a healthier alternative to typical fast food. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just starting to explore the world of cooking, this dish is adaptable and stress-free. Ready to discover how easy it is to create this classic that your family will love? Let’s dive in and cook up some magic! Why Is Homemade Beef and Broccoli Best? Simplicity: You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this dish, making it perfect for any weeknight meal. Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of tender beef and fresh broccoli in a savory sauce delivers a restaurant-quality taste at home. Healthier Choice: This recipe is a guilt-free take on your favorite take-out, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without excess calories. Versatility: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, tailoring it to fit your family’s preferences, much like our Cheesy Beef Chimichangas or Spicy Chinese Chicken. Quick Cooking: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a nutritious and satisfying meal, saving you precious time during busy weekdays! Chinese Beef and Broccoli Ingredients • Getting ready to cook this delightful dish? Here’s everything you need! For the Beef Flank Steak (1 lb) – Offers tenderness and flavor; for a budget-friendly option, consider skirt steak. Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds umami richness; swap with tamari for a gluten-free variety. Peanut Oil (1 tbsp) – Ideal for quick stir-frying; vegetable oil can be used as an alternative. Cornstarch (1 tbsp, plus 1 tbsp for sauce thickening) – Ensures velvety beef texture and thickens the sauce beautifully. Baking Soda (1/2 tsp, optional) – A secret tenderizing agent for tougher cuts; don’t confuse with baking powder. For the Sauce Chicken Stock (1/2 cup) – Provides a savory base; beef stock is a suitable substitution. Shaoxing Wine (2 tbsp) – Enhances sauce complexity; use dry sherry for a gluten-free option. Dark Soy Sauce (1 tsp) – Gives a beautiful color and deeper flavor to the sauce. Brown Sugar (2 tsp) – Balances savory notes; feel free to use white sugar instead. For the Vegetables Broccoli (1 head) – The star veggie, cut into bite-sized florets for easy eating. Garlic (3 cloves) – Imparts delightful aromatic flavor; be sure to mince it well. Ginger (2 tsp) – Brings warmth and spice to the dish; minced ginger packs a punch! This Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish is sure to become a treasured recipe in your kitchen, capturing all the restaurant flavors with none of the guilt! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Beef and Broccoli Step 1: Prepare the Beef Begin by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips for tenderness. In a medium bowl, combine the beef with soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Mix well and let the beef marinate for about 10 minutes while you gather and prep the remaining ingredients, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. Step 2: Make the Sauce In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken stock, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, and an additional tablespoon of cornstarch. Ensure everything is well combined, creating a smooth sauce. Set your sauce mixture aside—it will add a rich flavor to your Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish. Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli Bring a non-stick skillet filled with water to a boil over high heat. Carefully add the broccoli florets and steam them for about 1 minute until they are vibrant green and just tender. Once done, quickly transfer them to a plate and set aside, preventing further cooking that would lead to mushiness. Step 4: Sear the Beef Heat a tablespoon of oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef strips in a single layer, searing them for about 30 seconds per side until they start to develop a slight char but remain pink in the center. This quick method ensures tender beef, key to your Chinese Beef and Broccoli’s success. Step 5: Add Aromatics With the beef still in the skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir them quickly for about 15 seconds, allowing the aromatic flavors to release and infuse the beef. This step enhances the dish’s overall taste, setting the foundation for a deliciously fragrant meal. Step 6: Combine and Thicken Return the blanched broccoli to the skillet with the beef. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring constantly for about 1 minute as the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce achieves a glossy finish, enveloping your Chinese Beef and Broccoli with rich flavor. Step 7: Serve Hot Once thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Chinese Beef and Broccoli immediately over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for an authentic touch. The vibrant colors and aromatic scent will tempt your family to dig in without delay! Make Ahead Options These Chinese Beef and Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can chop the broccoli and keep it fresh in a sealed bag for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this quick and delicious meal, simply heat a skillet, sear the prepped beef for 30 seconds, add aromatics, and finish by returning the broccoli and pouring over the sauce. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and time-saving grace during busy weeknights! Storage Tips for Chinese Beef and Broccoli Fridge: Store leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. The sauce may thin out slightly upon reheating, but the dish remains delicious. Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock to rehydrate the sauce if necessary. Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prep! Divide into individual portions and store for quick, healthy lunches throughout the week. Expert Tips for Chinese Beef and Broccoli Choose the Right Cut: Select flank steak for tenderness, but if you have skirt steak on hand, it works beautifully too when marinated properly. Avoid Overcooking: Sear the beef quickly to keep it juicy. Overcooking can lead to tough meat, so stay attentive during this step! Prep Ahead: Get all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. The stir-frying process goes fast, and having everything prepped ensures you won’t scramble last minute. Perfect Broccoli: Blanch the broccoli just until vibrant green and tender-crisp. This keeps it bright and prevents sogginess, enhancing your Chinese Beef and Broccoli experience. Customize Your Sauce: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sauce ingredients according to your taste. Adding a splash of chili oil or sriracha can elevate the flavor to your desired heat level! Chinese Beef and Broccoli Variations Feel free to experiment and give this dish your personal touch, creating a delightful, customized experience! Vegetable Boost: Add sliced carrots, red peppers, or snap peas for a colorful twist. All these veggies not only enhance the aesthetics but also infuse the dish with vibrant flavors. Protein Swap: Skirt Steak: Substitute flank steak with skirt steak or even grilled chicken for a different flavor profile. Whichever protein you choose, ensure it’s marinated properly for a tender bite. Gluten-Free Twist: For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce and use dry sherry in place of Shaoxing wine. Enjoy this delicious meal without worrying about gluten! Spice It Up: Add a dash of chili oil or sriracha to the sauce for a flavor boost. The heat can elevate the dish to new heights, making it irresistibly exciting. Sauce Variations: Teriyaki Sauce: Try replacing the sauce mixture with teriyaki for a sweeter flavor. This modification can be an excellent nod to those who enjoy a sweeter finish to their dishes. Nut Free: For a nut-free alternative, swap peanut oil with light olive or avocado oil. Your beef and broccoli will still have that satisfying stir-fry finish without the worry of allergens. Recipe Combos: Consider using this base recipe to create dishes similar to our Spicy Chinese Chicken or transform it into a layered rice bowl much like the Avocado Mojo Chicken for exciting meal options. Unleash your culinary creativity and let your taste buds guide you on this delightful journey! What to Serve with Chinese Beef and Broccoli Imagine serving up a delightful meal that not only fills your tummy but also warms your heart; this dish is the perfect centerpiece. Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains absorb the rich sauce, adding comfort and making every bite a treat. Garlic Noodles: Tossed in a delicate garlic sauce, these tender noodles perfectly complement the savory flavors of the beef. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: This crisp green vegetable adds a refreshing crunch and beautifully contrasts the tender beef and broccoli. Crips Vegetable Spring Rolls: Lightly fried and filled with fresh veggies, they provide a satisfying crunch that enhances the meal’s overall texture. Asian Salad with Peanut Dressing: A bright and zesty salad featuring crunchy vegetables, this dish lightens the meal and adds freshness to each bite. Chilled Green Tea: A soothing herbal beverage that cleanses the palate and pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the dish. Elevate your dining experience by adding one or more of these delightful pairings to your table! Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe FAQs How do I select the best beef for this dish? Absolutely! When choosing beef for your Chinese Beef and Broccoli, I recommend going for flank steak or skirt steak. Both cuts are inherently tender and take well to marinades. Look for meat that is bright red with minimal dark spots and good marbling. If using a tougher cut, consider marinating it with baking soda for 30 minutes to boost tenderness. What is the best way to store leftovers? Very! Store your leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Just remember, the sauce might thin out slightly upon reheating, but it’ll still taste fantastic! Can I freeze this dish? Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’s best to freeze in individual portions for easy reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove over low heat. A splash of chicken stock can help rehydrate the sauce if needed. What do I do if my sauce isn’t thickening? If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, don’t fret! This can happen if the heat is too low. Simply increase the heat and keep stirring, allowing the sauce to simmer for an additional minute. If that still doesn’t work, mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water (a slurry) and stir it into the sauce until thickened. Is this recipe safe for my allergy concerns? Very! This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce and dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check the labels of your ingredients, especially the sauces, to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Of course! Feel free to swap the beef for firm tofu or tempeh, both of which work wonderfully in this dish. Simply follow the same instructions, marinating and searing the tofu or tempeh until golden and crispy. You’ll keep that savory sauce and delightful broccoli, creating a delicious vegetarian alternative! Irresistible Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Homemade Delight This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is a quick, healthy alternative to take-out, featuring tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a rich sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: BeefCuisine: ChineseCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beef1 lb Flank Steak Offers tenderness and flavor; for a budget-friendly option, consider skirt steak.1 tbsp Soy Sauce Adds umami richness; swap with tamari for a gluten-free variety.1 tbsp Peanut Oil Ideal for quick stir-frying; vegetable oil can be used as an alternative.1 tbsp Cornstarch Ensures velvety beef texture and thickens the sauce beautifully.0.5 tsp Baking Soda A secret tenderizing agent for tougher cuts; don’t confuse with baking powder.For the Sauce0.5 cup Chicken Stock Provides a savory base; beef stock is a suitable substitution.2 tbsp Shaoxing Wine Enhances sauce complexity; use dry sherry for a gluten-free option.1 tsp Dark Soy Sauce Gives a beautiful color and deeper flavor to the sauce.2 tsp Brown Sugar Balances savory notes; feel free to use white sugar instead.For the Vegetables1 head Broccoli Cut into bite-sized florets for easy eating.3 cloves Garlic Imparts delightful aromatic flavor; be sure to mince it well.2 tsp Ginger Brings warmth and spice to the dish; minced ginger packs a punch! Equipment SkilletMedium Bowl Method PreparationBegin by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips for tenderness. In a medium bowl, combine the beef with soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Mix well and let the beef marinate for about 10 minutes.In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken stock, Shaoxing wine, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, and an additional tablespoon of cornstarch. Ensure everything is well combined, creating a smooth sauce.Bring a non-stick skillet filled with water to a boil over high heat. Carefully add the broccoli florets and steam them for about 1 minute until they are vibrant green and just tender. Transfer them to a plate and set aside.CookingHeat a tablespoon of oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef strips in a single layer, searing for about 30 seconds per side until they start to develop a slight char.With the beef still in the skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir quickly for about 15 seconds to release and infuse the aromatic flavors.Return the blanched broccoli to the skillet with the beef. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring constantly for about 1 minute as the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.Once thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Chinese Beef and Broccoli immediately over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 75mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
