Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a timeless dish that brings together tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli florets, and a savory stir-fry sauce. It is one of those meals that strikes the perfect balance between protein and vegetables, delivering a satisfying yet wholesome experience. The sauce, typically made with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, clings to each bite and enhances the natural flavors of the beef and broccoli. Unlike many takeout options, this homemade version allows you to control the freshness of ingredients, seasoning levels, and portion sizes. Quick to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights, it requires minimal ingredients but yields restaurant-quality results. Its versatility also means you can pair it with rice, noodles, or even enjoy it on its own as a lighter meal. With its bold flavors and ease of preparation, Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a dish you will want to cook again and again.
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Chinese Beef and Broccoli – A Classic Takeout Favorite Made at Home
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A classic Chinese-American stir-fry featuring tender beef slices and crisp broccoli in a savory garlic-soy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and black pepper. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry.
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry beef slices until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining oil to the skillet, then stir-fry garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Return beef to the skillet, pour in sauce mixture, and stir well.
- Add cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Drizzle with sesame oil before serving.
Notes
- Slice beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or chili paste.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Beef sirloin or flank steak – Thinly sliced against the grain, this cut ensures tender and juicy bites that cook quickly in a stir-fry.
Broccoli florets – Provide crunch, freshness, and color while balancing the richness of the beef.
Soy sauce – Adds depth and umami to the sauce, giving it that signature takeout-style flavor.
Oyster sauce – Contributes a savory, slightly sweet complexity that elevates the dish.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings aromatic richness to the stir-fry.
Ginger – Offers warmth and a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the beef.
Cornstarch – Used to coat the beef for tenderness and to thicken the sauce into a glossy finish.
Beef broth – Forms the base of the sauce, providing a savory foundation that ties everything together.
Brown sugar – Balances the saltiness of the sauces and enhances caramelization.
Sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma and authentic finishing touch to the dish.
Vegetable oil – A neutral oil that withstands high heat for stir-frying the beef and broccoli.
Directions
Start by preparing the beef. Slice the steak thinly against the grain and toss it with a light coating of cornstarch. This step ensures tenderness and helps the sauce cling to the meat. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and a splash of sesame oil to form the stir-fry sauce.
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sautéing briefly until fragrant. Toss in the broccoli florets with a small splash of water, allowing them to steam slightly while staying crisp.
Return the beef to the skillet, pour in the prepared sauce, and stir everything together. Allow the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and broccoli evenly. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and cooking requires an additional 15 minutes. The total time of 30 minutes makes it an excellent option for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or use the microwave in short intervals. For best texture, avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the broccoli from becoming too soft.
Variations and Customizations
Protein swap – Use chicken, pork, or even tofu in place of beef for a different twist.
Low-sodium option – Substitute low-sodium soy sauce and broth to reduce saltiness.
Extra vegetables – Add snap peas, carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more color and nutrition.
Spicy kick – Stir in chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.
Gluten-free adaptation – Replace soy sauce with tamari and ensure all sauces used are gluten-free.
Noodle bowl – Instead of rice, toss the beef and broccoli with lo mein or rice noodles.
Sesame garnish – Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added flavor and crunch.
Make-ahead marinade – Marinate the beef in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger ahead of time for deeper flavor.
Vegetarian version – Replace beef with firm tofu or tempeh while keeping the same sauce.
Healthier base – Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but blanch it briefly before stir-frying to prevent excess water.
What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Flank steak or sirloin works best because they cook quickly and remain tender.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be mixed in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How do I keep the beef tender?
Slice it thinly against the grain and use cornstarch as a coating before cooking.
Can I make this without oyster sauce?
Yes, you can substitute with extra soy sauce and a touch of hoisin sauce.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and pairs nicely with pre-cooked rice.
Can I cook this in a regular skillet instead of a wok?
Yes, a large skillet works fine, just make sure it heats evenly.
What side dishes pair well with beef and broccoli?
Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles are traditional accompaniments.
How do I thicken the sauce more?
Add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) during cooking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but broccoli may soften when reheated. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that proves homemade takeout can be just as delicious—if not better—than restaurant versions. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, it strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows for endless customizations, whether you want to add more vegetables, adjust the spice level, or swap in a different protein. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining. Whether served over rice, noodles, or a lighter grain alternative, it promises a wholesome and comforting meal every time.