Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a popular dish that many people love. It is a perfect mix of tender beef and fresh broccoli, all coated in a tasty sauce. This dish comes from Chinese cooking. It is fast, easy, and full of flavor. You can enjoy it on a busy weeknight or serve it at a special dinner.
In this article, we will explore everything about this delicious meal. You will learn why you will love it, how to make it, and even some tips for storage and serving. Let’s dive in!
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Chinese Beef and Broccoli. First, it is quick to make. You can prepare it in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy days. Second, it is healthy. The dish is rich in protein from the beef and packed with vitamins from the broccoli.
Also, the flavors are amazing. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic gives a tasty kick to the meal. You can adjust the sauce to fit your taste. Finally, it is versatile. You can serve it over rice or noodles, or enjoy it on its own.
HOW TO MAKE Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Making Chinese Beef and Broccoli is simple. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal on your table. Below, you will find the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to help you create this dish.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make Chinese Beef and Broccoli, you will need a few basic kitchen tools:
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A small bowl for marinating the beef
- A medium-sized bowl for mixing the sauce
- A large nonstick skillet or wok
- Tongs or a spatula for stirring
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or other cut)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (Optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken stock (or beef stock)
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or white sugar)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 head broccoli (cut to bite-size florets)
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Slice the beef
Start by slicing the beef against the grain. Cut it into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Place the beef in a small bowl. - Marinate the beef
Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch to the beef. Gently mix everything by hand until all the pieces are coated. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. - Make the sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is blended. - Steam the broccoli
In a large nonstick skillet, pour in 1/4 cup of water over medium-high heat. Wait until the water begins to boil. Add the broccoli and cover it. Steam the broccoli until it is just tender, which should take about 1 minute. Once done, transfer the broccoli to a plate and wipe any leftover water from the pan with a paper towel. - Cook the beef
Add the oil to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Heat the oil until it is hot. Spread the marinated steak in a single layer. Let it cook without touching it for 30 seconds, until the bottom side is browned. Flip the beef to cook the other side for just a few seconds. Stir the beef until it is lightly charred and still pink inside. - Add garlic and ginger
Next, add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir a few times to release their flavor and fragrance. - Combine everything
Return the broccoli to the skillet. Stir the sauce one more time to dissolve the cornstarch completely. Pour the sauce into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, which should take about 1 minute. - Serve hot
Quickly move everything to a plate. Serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli hot as a main dish.
HOW TO SERVE Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is best served hot. You can place it over a bed of white rice, brown rice, or noodles. Mixing it with rice helps soak up the delicious sauce. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds or sliced green onions on top for an extra touch.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Chinese Beef and Broccoli
If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge. Place the beef and broccoli in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pan or microwave until it is hot.
If you want to freeze it, you can also do that. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Aside from rice and noodles, there are other ways to enjoy Chinese Beef and Broccoli. Here are some suggestions:
- Serve with spring rolls: Crispy spring rolls make a great side dish.
- Pair with a salad: A simple cucumber salad can add a fresh crunch.
- Add more vegetables: You can mix in bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.
VARIATIONS
You can easily change this recipe to fit your tastes. Here are some fun variations:
- Add more vegetables: Besides broccoli, try adding bell peppers or snow peas.
- Switch the beef: Use chicken or tofu instead of beef for different flavors.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chili sauce for some heat.
- Use a different sauce: Try teriyaki or oyster sauce for a twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just ensure it is tender.
2. Is it necessary to marinate the beef?
Marinating helps enhance the flavor and tenderness. It is recommended but not required.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just steam it as per package instructions before adding it to the recipe.
4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your other ingredients do not contain gluten.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chinese Beef and Broccoli
You can prepare some parts of this dish in advance. Here are some tips:
- Marinate the beef: You can marinate the beef a few hours or even a day ahead for deeper flavors.
- Prepare the sauce: Mix the sauce ingredients and store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
- Chop the vegetables: Cut the broccoli and any other veggies ahead of time for quick cooking.
With these tips and steps, you can easily make a delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish that your family and friends will love. Enjoy your cooking!
This authentic Chinese dish is excellent alongside our beef and broccoli stir fry for those who want to compare different preparation techniques and flavor profiles. For a complete Chinese takeout experience at home, pair it with our chicken lo mein recipe to create a multi-dish feast. The stir-fry method also translates beautifully to our Korean BBQ steak rice bowls when you want to explore different Asian beef preparations and marinades.
Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Place the beef in a small bowl.
- Marinate the beef by adding soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce and mix until well blended.
- In a large nonstick skillet, pour in 1/4 cup of water and bring to a boil. Add the broccoli and cover to steam until tender, about 1 minute.
- Transfer the broccoli to a plate and wipe the pan clean. Add oil to the skillet and heat until hot.
- Spread the marinated steak in a single layer in the skillet. Cook without touching for 30 seconds, then flip and cook until lightly charred but still pink inside.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and stir to release their flavor.
- Return the broccoli to the skillet and stir the sauce, then pour it in. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
- Serve the Chinese Beef and Broccoli hot as a main dish.