Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a delicious dish that brings the flavors of Chinese takeout right to your home. It features tender slices of beef and crisp broccoli tossed in a savory sauce. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect option for a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. You can serve it with rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe for many reasons. First, it is packed with flavor. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a rich taste that enhances the beef and broccoli.
Second, this dish is healthy. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice. The beef adds protein, which is important for a balanced diet.
Third, it is quick to make. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. This makes it perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Finally, you can customize it. If you prefer chicken or tofu, you can easily swap them in. This recipe is flexible, allowing you to use whatever you have on hand.
HOW TO MAKE Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Making Chinese Beef and Broccoli is simple and straightforward. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious dish that will impress your family or guests. Follow the instructions below, and you’ll have a fantastic meal ready in no time.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large nonstick skillet
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or other cut)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken stock (or beef stock)
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 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)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or cut into 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Transfer the beef to a small bowl.
- Marinate the Beef: Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch to the beef. Gently mix well by hand until all pieces are coated with a thin layer of the sauce. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, combine all ingredients for the sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is combined.
- Steam the Broccoli: Add 1/4 cup water into a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until the water begins to boil. Add the broccoli and cover the skillet. Steam the broccoli until it just turns tender, about 1 minute. Once done, transfer the broccoli to a plate.
- Prepare the Skillet: Wipe the pan with a paper towel held in a pair of tongs if there’s any water left from steaming.
- Cook the Beef: Add the oil to the pan and swirl to coat the bottom. Heat over medium-high until hot. Spread the marinated steak in a single layer in the pan. Allow it to cook without touching it for 30 seconds, or until the bottom side is browned. Flip the steak to cook the other side for a few seconds until lightly charred and the inside is still pink.
- Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir a few times to release the flavors and fragrance.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the broccoli to the pan with the beef. Stir the sauce again to dissolve the cornstarch completely, then pour it into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
- Serve: Transfer everything to a plate immediately. Serve hot as a main dish.
HOW TO SERVE Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is best served hot. You can serve it over a bed of steamed rice or alongside some noodles for a hearty meal. Consider garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation.
If you wish, you can also serve this dish with a side of egg rolls or spring rolls for a full Chinese feast. Pair it with tea or a light beverage to complement the flavors.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Chinese Beef and Broccoli
When it comes to storing leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli, wait for it to cool down completely. Once cooled, transfer it to an air-tight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to freeze it, make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a pan over low heat until warmed through.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Here are some serving suggestions to make your Chinese Beef and Broccoli meal even better:
- Serve it over cooked white or brown rice for a filling meal.
- Pair it with rice noodles for a noodle version of the dish.
- Add a side of fried rice for a larger meal.
- Serve with egg rolls or dumplings as appetizers.
- Pair with a light salad to balance the flavors.
VARIATIONS
You can easily modify this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Chicken and Broccoli: Swap the beef for chicken breast or thighs for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Version: Use tofu instead of beef for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for more color and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chili peppers or chili paste to the sauce for some heat.
FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes! You can use skirt steak, sirloin, or even ground beef if you prefer.
- What if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?
- You can substitute it with dry sherry or simply use more chicken or beef stock.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance and cook it just before serving.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chinese Beef and Broccoli
To make your cooking experience easier, you can prepare a few things ahead of time:
- Marinate the Beef: You can marinate the beef the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. This will enhance the flavor.
- Chop Veggies: Prepare the broccoli and mince the garlic and ginger ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Make the Sauce: Mix the sauce ingredients in advance and keep it in a container in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before using.
By doing these steps, you can cut down on prep time when you’re ready to cook, making it even easier to enjoy this delicious dish!
Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or cut into 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Transfer the beef to a small bowl.
- Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch to the beef. Gently mix well by hand until all pieces are coated with a thin layer of the sauce. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine all ingredients for the sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is combined.
- Add 1/4 cup water into a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until the water begins to boil. Add the broccoli and cover the skillet. Steam the broccoli until it just turns tender, about 1 minute. Once done, transfer the broccoli to a plate.
- Wipe the pan with a paper towel held in a pair of tongs if there’s any water left from steaming.
- Add the oil to the pan and swirl to coat the bottom. Heat over medium-high until hot. Spread the marinated steak in a single layer in the pan. Allow it to cook without touching it for 30 seconds, or until the bottom side is browned.
- Flip the steak to cook the other side for a few seconds until lightly charred and the inside is still pink.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir a few times to release the flavors and fragrance.
- Return the broccoli to the pan with the beef. Stir the sauce again to dissolve the cornstarch completely, then pour it into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
- Transfer everything to a plate immediately. Serve hot as a main dish.