Introduction
Craving takeout but want something healthier and faster? The Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe gives you that same savory, saucy flavor you love — right from your kitchen in under 30 minutes! Tender strips of beef are stir-fried with crisp broccoli in a rich garlic soy sauce that’s slightly sweet, salty, and perfectly balanced.
This classic dish is a staple of Chinese-American cuisine — quick, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served over rice or noodles, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner.
Ingredients List
For the Beef Marinade
- 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp baking soda (optional – makes the beef ultra tender)
For the Sauce
- ⅓ cup (80 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1 Tbsp rice vinegar or Shaoxing wine
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth or water
For Stir-Fry
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 Tbsp water (for steaming broccoli)
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds and green onions
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
🔥 Quick, easy, and even better than takeout — done in less than half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the beef
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and baking soda. Add the beef and toss to coat. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prep the sauce and broccoli.
Step 2: Make the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and beef broth. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the broccoli
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 2 minutes, then add 2 tablespoons of water, cover, and steam for 1–2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the beef
Add the remaining oil to the same pan. Add marinated beef and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and mostly cooked through.
Step 5: Combine everything
Return broccoli to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss well. Stir for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot over steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, 4 servings)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
Healthier Alternatives
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt.
- Replace sugar with honey or coconut sugar.
- Add more veggies — mushrooms, bell peppers, or snow peas.
- Swap beef for chicken or tofu for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
- Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil for spice.
- Pair with spring rolls or egg drop soup for a full Chinese-inspired meal.
- Great for meal prep — stays delicious for days!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking beef: Thin slices cook fast; remove as soon as browned.
- Skipping the marinade: This step makes the beef tender and flavorful.
- Too much heat too soon: Garlic and ginger can burn easily — add them last.
- Over-steaming broccoli: Keep it crisp for the perfect texture contrast.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked beef and broccoli in sauce for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat in a skillet.
- Reheat: Warm over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
The Chinese Beef and Broccoli is the ultimate easy stir-fry — savory, saucy, and packed with fresh flavor. 🥦✨ It’s your go-to homemade takeout that’s faster, healthier, and even more delicious than the real thing!
👉 Try it tonight, share your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe for more easy Asian-inspired recipes!
FAQs
Q1: What’s the best beef for this recipe?
Flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak — slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Q2: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free oyster sauce.
Q3: Can I meal prep it?
Absolutely! It reheats beautifully for quick weekday lunches.
Q4: Can I make it vegetarian?
Swap the beef for firm tofu or seitan and follow the same sauce method.
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