Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe

If you have ever craved a dish that combines tender, flavorful beef with crisp, vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce, then you are going to absolutely love this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe. It’s a classic that brings together the perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it an irresistible meal any night of the week. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner after work or impressing friends with your kitchen skills, this recipe offers a delightful harmony of rich soy flavors, aromatic ginger and garlic, and a glossy sauce that beautifully coats every bite. Trust me, once you try this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe, it will become your go-to comfort food with an elegant twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the tender cut of beef to the fresh broccoli and the umami-rich sauce components, everything works together to create that signature taste and satisfying texture.

• 12 oz (360 g) beef fillet, flank, or rump: Choose a tender cut to ensure the beef cooks quickly and remains juicy.
• 4-5 cups cooked broccoli florets: Fresh or lightly steamed broccoli brings a vibrant color and healthy crunch.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) oil: Essential for high-heat searing; a neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best.
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped: Adds a fragrant kick that’s classic in Chinese cuisine.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) fresh ginger, finely chopped: Offers a warm, zesty aroma that complements the beef perfectly.
• 1 cup (240 ml) water: Used to create the sauce’s perfect consistency without overpowering flavors.
• 2 tbsp (15 g) cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce to a beautiful glossy finish.
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) water: Mixed with cornstarch for smooth, lump-free thickening.
• 1 tsp (5 g) sugar: Balances the savory notes with a subtle touch of sweetness.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) dark soy sauce: Deepens the color and adds rich umami flavor.
• 1.5 tbsp (22 ml) light soy sauce: Brings saltiness and brightness to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) Chinese cooking wine: Enhances flavor complexity and tenderizes the beef.
• 1/8 tsp (0.25 g) Chinese five spice powder: Introduces a gentle warmth with hints of star anise and cinnamon.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) sesame oil (optional): Adds a toasty, nutty aroma finishing touch.
• 1/8 tsp (0.25 g) black pepper: Provides mild heat and earthiness to round out the flavors.

How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

Start by whisking together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1/4 cup water in a bowl until it’s completely smooth with no lumps. This step is so important because it ensures your sauce will thicken perfectly without any clumps. Then, add the sugar, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, Chinese five spice powder, optional sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly and set this flavor-packed sauce aside for now.

Step 2: Slice and Marinate the Beef

Take your beef and slice it thinly, about 1/4 inch thick, cutting against the grain. This technique is key to keep the beef tender and easy to chew. Place the sliced beef into a bowl and pour in 2 tablespoons of the prepared sauce mixture. Stir well to coat every piece evenly. Letting the beef soak up those flavors before cooking makes a huge difference in taste.

Step 3: Heat the Pan for Searing

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over high heat until it starts to shimmer. High heat is essential here—it creates that gorgeous sear on the beef that locks in juices and produces those mouthwatering browned edges.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add the beef strips in a single layer to the hot pan but resist the urge to stir immediately. Give them a solid minute to brown and develop a delicious crust. Then, stir quickly for about 10 seconds to avoid overcrowding and ensure the beef cooks evenly. This quick sear will keep your beef tender and flavorful.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Ginger

Throw in the finely chopped garlic and ginger right into the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together for around 30 seconds. The aroma will fill your kitchen instantly, and you’ll notice the beef turning a beautiful brown color as it cooks through while soaking up those pungent flavors.

Step 6: Pour in the Remaining Sauce and Water

Now, it’s time to bring the sauce to life. Pour the remaining sauce mixture along with 1 cup of water into the skillet. Gently lift and stir the beef and garlic mixture, coating everything evenly. This step melds the rich flavors and starts building the luscious sauce that will cling to your beef wonderfully.

Step 7: Incorporate the Broccoli

When the sauce starts bubbling, add your cooked broccoli florets straight into the skillet. Give everything a gentle stir so the broccoli is coated with the savory sauce, ready to soak up those bold flavor notes just like the beef.

Step 8: Simmer Until the Sauce Thickens

Turn the heat down to medium and let the skillet simmer for about a minute. You’ll see the sauce thicken beautifully, taking on a glossy texture that perfectly wraps the beef and broccoli. This is where the dish truly comes together.

Step 9: Serve Immediately

Remove the skillet from heat right away to keep the sauce from burning or over-reducing. Plate your Chinese Beef and Broccoli with a side of steaming hot rice, and if you like, sprinkle on some toasted sesame seeds for a lovely finishing touch.

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and taste, garnishing with toasted sesame seeds adds both crunch and a nutty flavor contrast that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce. Thinly sliced green onions or fresh cilantro can also bring a pop of freshness and color, making your dish look as vibrant as it tastes.

Side Dishes

While steamed white rice is the classic companion to this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe, you can also try serving it alongside fluffy jasmine rice or fragrant brown rice for a healthier twist. For something different, garlic fried rice or even simple noodles would complement the savory sauce nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a dinner or want to impress guests, consider serving this beef and broccoli over a bed of cauliflower rice or even using the stir-fry as a filling for lettuce wraps. A beautiful wooden serving platter or a rustic cast iron skillet can make the dish look stunning right from stove to table, inviting everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it makes for fantastic next-day meals. Just be sure to cool it down quickly before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, it freezes nicely. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When freezing, leave out the cooked broccoli and add it fresh when reheating to keep that perfect texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave it covered, but stovetop reheating preserves the texture better.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Flank, skirt, or sirloin steak are great alternatives. The key is slicing thinly against the grain to keep the beef tender.

Is it necessary to use both light and dark soy sauce?

Using both adds depth and balance to the flavor: dark soy sauce for color and richness, and light soy sauce for saltiness and brightness.

Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables?

Yes, you can swap broccoli with bok choy, snap peas, or green beans, though the cooking times may vary slightly.

Is sesame oil required in this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe?

It’s optional but highly recommended for its nutty aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Slice thinly against the grain and cook on high heat quickly without overcrowding the pan. Marinating in the sauce also helps tenderize it beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably comforting yet exciting about this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe. It’s a wonderful combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors that comes together in a snap, giving you a homemade meal that tastes like it belongs in a favorite restaurant. Give it a try, and I promise this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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