Chinese Beef and Broccoli served in a bowl with rice and vegetables.

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a classic dish that is loved for its delicious flavors and balanced nutrition. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also provides a hearty meal with protein from beef and vitamins from broccoli. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to customize and can be made in under 30 minutes.

how to make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb flank steak (or 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 (*see footnote 2)
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or white sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 head broccoli, cut into bite-size florets
  • 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil) (*see footnote 3)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ginger, minced

Directions:

  1. Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Place it in a small bowl.
  2. Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch to the bowl. Mix gently by hand until all slices are coated with a thin layer of the mixture. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce. Mix well.
  4. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1/4 cup of water and wait until it boils. Add the broccoli and cover. Steam until the broccoli is tender, about 1 minute. Transfer the broccoli to a plate. Wipe the skillet with a paper towel if there’s excess water left.
  5. Add oil to the skillet and heat until hot. Spread the steak in a single layer and let it cook without touching for 30 seconds or until the bottom is browned. Flip and cook the other side for a few seconds until lightly charred but still pink inside.
  6. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for a few seconds to release their flavors.
  7. Return the broccoli to the pan. Stir the sauce to dissolve the cornstarch completely and pour it into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
  8. Transfer everything to a plate right away. Serve hot as a main dish.

how to serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Serve the Chinese Beef and Broccoli hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also garnish it with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor and presentation.

how to store Chinese Beef and Broccoli

If you have leftovers, cool the dish down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

  • Slice the beef thinly for quick cooking and a tender texture.
  • If you’re in a hurry, you can use frozen broccoli florets instead of fresh.
  • Adjust the soy sauce and sugar levels based on your taste preference for sweetness and saltiness.

variation

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to this recipe for more color and nutrition. Alternatively, you can use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different protein source.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of beef?
Yes, you can use skirt steak, sirloin, or any other beef cut that you prefer for this recipe.

2. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and use cornstarch as a thickening agent.

3. How can I make it spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of Szechuan sauce while cooking.