Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Name: Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or other cuts); 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 into bite-size florets; 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil); 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons ginger, minced

Step into the world of vibrant flavors and nutritious greens with a classic dish that has captured hearts and palates everywhere. Chinese Beef and Broccoli is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and an umami-rich sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, this recipe is sure to bring a taste of the restaurant right into your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

This dish combines a balance of protein and vegetables, making it a healthy option for dinner.
It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
The deep flavors of the soy sauce and Shaoxing wine will transport you to an authentic Asian kitchen without needing to leave your home.

Simple Way to Prepare Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Creating the perfect Beef and Broccoli at home isn’t as daunting as it seems. You’ll discover that with a few simple steps, you can produce a dish that stands shoulder to shoulder with any takeout favorite. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Here is what you will need to whip up this delightful meal:

1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or other cuts)
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 into bite-size florets
1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons ginger, minced

Directions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process:

Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm thick slices or into 1-cm sticks. Transfer these slices into a small bowl.
Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch to the beef. Gently combine everything by hand until each slice is lightly coated with the mixture. Allow the beef to marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine all of the sauce ingredients. Make sure to mix well to ensure the flavors meld together nicely.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1/4 cup of water. Once the water begins to boil, add the broccoli and cover the pan. Steam the broccoli until it turns tender, which should take about one minute. Once cooked, transfer the broccoli to a plate and carefully wipe the pan with a paper towel if there is leftover water.
Next, add the peanut oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly. Increase the heat to medium-high and allow the oil to get hot.
Spread the marinated steak in a single layer in the skillet. Cook without disturbing for about 30 seconds or until the bottom turns brown. Flip the pieces and let them cook for a few more seconds until nicely charred on the outside but still pink inside.
Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring just a couple of times to release their delightful fragrances.
Return the previously steamed broccoli to the pan. Before you pour in the sauce, give it another good stir to dissolve the cornstarch entirely. Once ready, add the sauce to your skillet.
Cook everything together for about a minute until the sauce thickens beautifully. Lastly, transfer everything onto a serving plate immediately. Enjoy your creation hot as a main dish!

Storage Tips for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers from your meal, here’s how to keep it fresh for your next culinary pleasure:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days at 40°F.
For extended preservation, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply microwave or stir-fry over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

Best Ways to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Serving is just as delightful as creating this masterpiece. Here are some vibrant ideas to enhance the dining experience:

Over Rice: Pillow your Beef and Broccoli over a bed of steaming white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce deliciously.
With Noodles: For a twist, serve your dish over cooked rice noodles or add some into your skillet during the last minute of cooking.
As a Filling Meal: Pair the dish with a light soup or some spring rolls for a full Chinese feast at home.
Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds or cilantro for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Tips to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

To ensure you achieve the best results, keep these helpful hints in mind:

Thinly sliced beef cooks faster, so be sure to cut against the grain for tenderness.
Marinating the beef at least 10 minutes allows the flavors to seep in and adds to the dish’s overall depth.
Cooking the broccoli just right means it will be tender yet still vibrant and crisp.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your dish, consider these variations:

Vegetable Boost: Swap out or add other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for an extra burst of color and nutrition.
Different Proteins: This recipe isn’t solely for beef! Feel free to use chicken, tofu, or shrimp as an alternative protein. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can marinate the beef a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. Just keep the broccoli separate until you’re ready to cook, and then it will only take a few minutes to finish.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of beef?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be a fantastic substitute! Follow the same preparation steps; however, you may want to adjust your cooking time slightly to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of chili paste to the sauce before cooking.
Incorporate thinly sliced fresh chili peppers during the cooking process for a vibrant kick.

Q: What’s the secret to tender beef?
The key is to cut against the grain and allow the beef to marinate in soy sauce and cornstarch. This process helps to break down the fibers of the meat, resulting in tenderness.

Nutritional Information

Incorporating Beef and Broccoli into your meal rotation can also be beneficial for your health. Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional benefits:

Protein-Rich: This dish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and recovery.
Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli is particularly rich in vitamins K and C, along with dietary fiber, which helps support digestive health.

Final Thoughts

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a versatile dish that strikes the right balance between savory flavors and health benefits. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner with family or sharing it with friends, the joy it brings reaches beyond taste. This recipe is not just about nourishment but also about creating memorable moments around the table. Enjoy experimenting and making this classic your own!