Chinese Beef and Broccoli

It’s funny how some meals just stick with you because of memories and not because they’re fancy. I remember the first time I tried making Chinese Beef and Broccoli. Honestly, I burnt the first batch and the sauce was too thick. Typical me. But then I tried again and oh my, it turned out amazing. The beef was tender and the broccoli crisp. My kids went crazy for it and I couldn’t stop smiling.

Have you ever had a dish that makes you think of family dinners or a holiday meal? Well, this one does that for me. It’s not perfect every time and sometimes the sauce spills over a little but that’s part of the fun. You’ll want to serve it with rice or noodles so the sauce doesn’t go to waste. And it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for a small family gathering. When I serve this, everyone digs in before I even sit down.

What is Chinese Beef and Broccoli ?

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a classic dish from Chinese-American cuisine that has won hearts around the world. It features tender slices of beef stir-fried with fresh, crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it comforting, satisfying, and easy to enjoy any day of the week. The magic of this recipe is in the sauce—a combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness—that makes every bite rich and flavorful.

What to Eat with Chinese Beef and Broccoli ?

Chinese Beef and Broccoli pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, brown rice, or even fried rice. You can also enjoy it with noodles for a complete, hearty meal. Some people like to serve it alongside simple stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to add more color and nutrition. A small bowl of hot soup, such as egg drop soup or hot and sour soup, complements this dish perfectly and turns it into a well-rounded, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

For the sauce:

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Medium bowl for marinating
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wok or large skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Small bowl for mixing the sauce

How to make Chinese Beef and Broccoli ?

1. Prepare the beef: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Let it marinate for 15 minutes. This helps make the beef tender and flavorful.
2. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, sesame oil, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
3. Cook the broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the beef: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok. Add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed.
5. Combine ingredients: Return the broccoli to the wok and pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is well-coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve: Transfer the Chinese Beef and Broccoli to a serving platter and enjoy immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium power or stir-fry in a skillet until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the broccoli crisp and the beef tender.

FAQ

What cut of beef is best for Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

Flank steak or sirloin works best because they are tender and cook quickly. Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well. Overcooked frozen broccoli can become mushy, so add it toward the end of cooking.

Is there a vegetarian version?

You can substitute beef with tofu, tempeh, or seitan and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a tasty vegetarian version.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Mix a little extra cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce while cooking. Stir until it reaches the desired consistency.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the beef and broccoli in advance, but it’s best to cook them fresh to maintain texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, but the broccoli may lose its texture. Freeze the beef and sauce separately, and add fresh broccoli when reheating.

How spicy is this dish?

The classic version is mild, but you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce for extra heat.

What can I serve it with besides rice?

Try it with noodles, cauliflower rice, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish that can easily become a family favorite. With its tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to the blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes that everyone will love.