Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is one of those classic stir-fry dishes that never disappoints. Tender slices of beef paired with crisp, vibrant broccoli are tossed in a savory sauce that balances salty soy, a touch of sweetness, and subtle garlic-ginger notes. It is a healthier, fresher alternative to takeout, yet it is just as satisfying. What makes it even better is how quickly it comes together—perfect for weeknights when time is short but you still want a flavorful, homemade meal. I once tried swapping beef sirloin with flank steak, and both cuts worked beautifully as long as they were sliced thinly. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles, and you have a balanced, comforting dinner that tastes better than anything from a restaurant. This dish is proof that simple ingredients, cooked quickly and thoughtfully, can deliver bold flavors in just minutes.
Chinese Beef and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A classic Chinese takeout favorite featuring tender beef slices stir-fried with fresh broccoli in a savory garlic soy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (for sauce)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (for sauce)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine beef slices with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Stir-fry beef in batches until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed to steam.
- Return beef to the skillet. Pour in beef broth, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp oyster sauce. Stir well.
- Add cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce thickens and coats beef and broccoli, about 2 minutes.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Notes
- Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers.
- Substitute chicken or tofu for a variation of the dish.
- This recipe works best with a wok, but a large skillet also works.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- 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 for tender, juicy bites.
Broccoli florets – Crisp and fresh, adding color and crunch to the stir-fry.
Soy sauce – The salty, savory backbone of the stir-fry sauce.
Oyster sauce – Provides depth and umami that elevates the dish.
Garlic – Adds aromatic richness and a bold kick of flavor.
Ginger – Freshly grated for warmth and brightness.
Cornstarch – Used both to coat the beef for tenderness and to thicken the sauce.
Beef broth – Enhances the richness of the sauce.
Brown sugar – Balances the salty flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Sesame oil – Adds nutty depth and classic Asian flavor.
Vegetable oil – Ideal for high-heat stir-frying without overpowering the dish.
Green onions – Optional garnish for freshness and mild sharpness.
Cooked rice or noodles – For serving and making the meal complete.
Directions
Start by preparing the beef: slice it thinly against the grain and toss it in cornstarch with a splash of soy sauce. This keeps the meat tender during cooking. Blanch the broccoli briefly in boiling water or steam until just tender-crisp, then drain and set aside.
Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef and set aside. In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, sautéing briefly until fragrant.
Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Pour the sauce into the pan, stirring until it thickens slightly. Return the beef and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together until the beef is fully cooked and coated in the glossy sauce. Drizzle with sesame oil before serving.
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is only 15 minutes, so the dish is ready in 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat quickly in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing is possible, but the broccoli may lose its crispness when thawed.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Beef and Broccoli
Add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers for extra heat.
Chicken or Shrimp Swap
Substitute chicken breast or shrimp for the beef for a different protein option.
Vegetable Boost
Include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Gluten-Free Version
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure oyster sauce is gluten-free.
Low-Carb Option
Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice.
Honey Garlic Sauce
Replace brown sugar with honey for a sweeter, stickier glaze.
Cashew Beef and Broccoli
Add roasted cashews for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Extra Savory
Mix in a splash of hoisin sauce for a deeper umami taste.
Ginger-Lover’s Version
Increase the ginger for a spicier, more fragrant sauce.
Vegetarian Twist
Use tofu in place of beef and vegetable broth for a meat-free option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but blanch it briefly before stir-frying to avoid excess water.
What’s the best beef cut for this recipe?
Flank steak or sirloin work best for tenderness and flavor.
How do I keep the beef tender?
Slice thinly against the grain and coat with cornstarch before cooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but cook the beef and broccoli separately and combine just before serving.
What can I serve with beef and broccoli?
Steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles make great pairings.
Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely, if you prefer a saucier dish, simply double the sauce ingredients.
Is this dish healthy?
Yes, it is protein-rich and balanced with vegetables, especially when served with brown rice.
How do I thicken the sauce more?
Add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water.
Can I cook this without a wok?
Yes, a large skillet works perfectly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, though the broccoli may soften once thawed.
Conclusion
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious stir-fry that is perfect for weeknight dinners. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, it strikes the perfect balance of texture and taste. Easy to customize and ready in just 30 minutes, it is a dish that rivals takeout while being healthier and fresher. Whether you enjoy it with rice, noodles, or a lighter base like cauliflower rice, this recipe will quickly earn its place as a family favorite.
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