If you’re craving a wholesome, flavorful, and truly comforting meal, nothing hits the spot quite like this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe. It masterfully blends tender slices of marinated flank steak with crisp, vibrant broccoli, all coated in a luscious savory sauce that’s rich with garlic, ginger, and just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, this recipe delivers that perfect mix of texture and taste that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this classic Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe, you don’t need a long list of complicated ingredients—just simple, fresh, and essential items that work harmoniously to build the dish’s depth, color, and mouthwatering flavor.
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain: Ensures tender, easy-to-chew beef that soaks up all the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds savory umami and saltiness to bring the dish to life.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Gives a deep, slightly sweet richness characteristic of classic Chinese cooking.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps the sauce thicken and gives the beef a silky coating.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Ideal for high-heat stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and authentic finishing touch.
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets: Brings freshness, vibrant green color, and satisfying crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential aromatic that infuses savory depth.
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated: Offers a warming, spicy brightness that balances the richness.
- 1/4 cup beef broth: Lends moisture and meaty flavor to the sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons rice wine or dry sherry: Adds complexity and a subtle sweetness that elevates the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Rounds out the savory components with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to perfect the balance.
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat: Kick up the spice level if you like a little warmth.
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by combining the thinly sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix thoroughly to make sure every piece of beef is evenly coated. This marinade not only adds flavor but tenderizes the meat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak in those delicious seasonings and get ready for the quick stir-fry.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat your vegetable oil in a large wok or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer and stir-fry for about 2 to 3 minutes until it just starts to brown. The goal here is to develop flavor quickly without overcooking—then remove the beef and set it aside to maintain its tenderness.
Step 3: Infuse the Aromatics
Using the same pan, add a splash of sesame oil and allow it to heat until shimmering. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly; cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This step builds the fragrant foundation that will take your Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe to the next level.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
Add the fresh broccoli florets to the pan and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes. You’re aiming for a tender-crisp texture here, where the broccoli is cooked through but still holds its vibrant color and bite. This contrast in texture is what makes each bite so satisfying.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, rice wine (or dry sherry), and sugar until combined. Pour this mixture over the broccoli in the pan, letting it simmer for a moment to meld the flavors and gently soften the broccoli even more.
Step 6: Combine Beef and Broccoli
Return the beef to the pan, tossing everything together to coat evenly with the luscious sauce. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken nicely as it heats through. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and if you like a touch of spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Once everything is heated and saucy, your Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it steaming hot over fluffy steamed rice or your favorite noodles for an authentic experience.
How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of chopped green onions adds a wonderful texture contrast and fresh pop of color. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and add an extra layer of crisp, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with classic sides like steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal. You could also serve it with fried rice or simple garlic noodles to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. A side of pickled cucumbers or a light Asian slaw can bring brightness and balance to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, try serving your Chinese Beef and Broccoli over cauliflower rice or spiralized noodles for a lower-carb option. Another fun idea is to pile it onto warm lettuce cups for a hand-held dining experience that’s both casual and impressive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef may firm up a bit, but the flavors become even more concentrated overnight.
Freezing
If you want to extend the shelf life, this dish freezes well. Place cooled leftover portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Frozen Chinese Beef and Broccoli can be stored for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly. Avoid overheating, which can toughen the beef and overcook the broccoli.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use sirloin or skirt steak as alternatives. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain to keep the beef tender.
What can I substitute if I don’t have oyster sauce?
If oyster sauce isn’t available, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a touch of sugar, though the flavor will be slightly different but still deliciously rich.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this is a fantastic dish for meal prep. It reheats well and maintains its flavors and texture, making it a convenient and tasty option for busy days.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers make great additions and add extra color and crunch. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep everything crisp-tender.
How spicy is this recipe?
The base recipe is mild, but adding red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick. You can adjust the spice level according to your personal preference without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that never gets old—filled with vibrant flavors, simple ingredients, and quick cooking steps that fit perfectly into any weeknight routine. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every savory, satisfying bite as much as I do sharing it with you today.
Print
Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 10m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This classic Chinese Beef and Broccoli stir-fry features tender slices of flank steak marinated in a savory soy and oyster sauce blend, combined with crisp, vibrant broccoli florets. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish makes a perfect weeknight dinner served over steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
Sauces and Oils
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry quickly until the beef is just browned on the outside, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add sesame oil and allow it to heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring continuously until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to impart a rich aromatic base.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pan and stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp, retaining its bright green color and slight crunch.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, rice wine (or dry sherry), and sugar until combined. Pour this sauce mixture over the broccoli in the pan.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the cooked beef to the pan, mixing everything together. Continue stir-frying for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat through and allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes according to taste.
- Serve: Serve the finished beef and broccoli hot over steamed rice or noodles for a full, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For tender beef, slice the flank steak thinly against the grain.
- Marinating the beef helps to tenderize it and infuse flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Rice wine can be substituted with dry sherry or omitted if unavailable.
- This dish cooks very quickly, so have all ingredients prepped before starting.
- To keep broccoli crisp, avoid overcooking during stir-fry.
