Chinese Beef and Broccoli

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe brings the classic flavors of your favorite take-out dish right into your kitchen. With tender beef and crisp broccoli bathed in a rich sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also a healthier alternative to greasy take-out. Serve it over steaming rice for an authentic experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Healthier Option: Enjoy the flavors of take-out without the excess calories or unhealthy ingredients.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice levels or substitute ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Flavorful Sauce: The savory brown sauce elevates the dish, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making dinner time stress-free.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking your Chinese Beef and Broccoli easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the beef and mixing your sauce efficiently.
• Tongs: Help in flipping the beef without losing its juices while cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank steak, skirt steak, or other cut (see footnote 1)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Optional) (see footnote 1)
• 1/2 cup chicken stock (or beef stock)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (footnote 2)
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or white sugar)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 head broccoli, cut to bite-size florets
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil) (Footnote 3)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger, minced

How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

1. Slice the beef against the grain into thin slices or sticks.
2. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch with the sliced beef.
3. Mix gently by hand until coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, combine all sauce ingredients. Mix well until blended.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

1. In a large nonstick skillet, add water over medium-high heat until boiling.
2. Add broccoli and cover to steam until tender (about one minute).
3. Remove broccoli from skillet and set aside. Wipe any remaining water from the pan.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

1. Heat oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Spread marinated beef in a single layer, allowing it to cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds until browned.
3. Flip beef to cook evenly for a few seconds more; ensure it remains pink inside.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

1. Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook briefly to release their flavors.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Return broccoli to skillet along with prepared sauce.
2. Stir well, ensuring cornstarch dissolves completely; cook until sauce thickens (about one minute).
3. Serve immediately as a main dish over rice or noodles.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli at home anytime!

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Serving Chinese Beef and Broccoli can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this flavorful dish.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the beef and broccoli over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the rich sauce, making every bite satisfying.

With Noodles

• Pair it with stir-fried noodles for a different texture. The noodles will complement the beef and broccoli perfectly, adding a hearty element to your meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, use crisp lettuce leaves to create wraps. Fill the leaves with beef and broccoli for a fresh take on this classic dish.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Garnish the finished dish with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

With Chili Oil

• Drizzle some chili oil on top before serving for an extra kick. This adds heat and complexity to the dish, perfect for spice lovers.

As Part of a Platter

• Serve it alongside other Chinese dishes like dumplings or spring rolls for a complete meal experience that guests will love.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Chinese Beef and Broccoli

To achieve restaurant-quality Chinese Beef and Broccoli at home, follow these essential tips that will ensure great results every time.

• Choose the right cut of meat: Flank steak or skirt steak works best as they are tender and flavorful when cooked quickly.

• Marinate properly: Allowing the beef to marinate enhances its flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 10 minutes but longer is better if time allows.

• Use high heat: Cooking on medium-high heat gives the beef a nice char while keeping it juicy inside. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Steam just until bright green and tender-crisp. Overcooked broccoli loses its vibrant color and nutrients.

• Stir constantly: When adding the sauce, stir continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even coating on both beef and broccoli.

• Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while everything is hot and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Chinese Beef and Broccoli pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic choice, fried rice adds texture and flavor. You can include vegetables or proteins as desired.

2. Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls make a delightful appetizer or side, filled with veggies or meat for extra taste.

3. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls offer a light contrast, filled with shrimp or vegetables for a refreshing bite.

4. Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites can be filled with pork or vegetables, providing an enjoyable chewy texture alongside your main dish.

5. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in soy sauce adds freshness and balances out richer flavors.

6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements this dish nicely, providing warmth without overpowering flavors.

7. Chinese Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles add acidity that cuts through the richness of beef, enhancing your meal’s overall balance.

8. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles provide a contrast in temperature while their nutty flavor ties in beautifully with the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chinese Beef and Broccoli at home can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your dish.

• Using the wrong cut of beef – Flank steak or skirt steak works best. Avoid tougher cuts as they won’t yield tender results.
• Overcooking the broccoli – Steam just until tender. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its vibrant color.
• Not marinating long enough – Marinate the beef for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
• Skipping the cornstarch – Cornstarch helps create a velvety sauce. Don’t skip it; it’s key for a smooth texture.
• Not balancing flavors – Ensure you have a good mix of soy sauce, sugar, and wine. This balance is crucial for authentic taste.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chinese Beef and Broccoli

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chinese Beef and Broccoli

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Sauté on medium heat with a splash of water until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chinese Beef and Broccoli.

Can I use other vegetables in my Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

Yes! You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.

Is this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace soy sauce with tamari and use dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking for a spicy kick.

What should I serve with Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. This quick meal brings comfort to the dinner table, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Try this recipe today!