Irresistible Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe to Savor

Recipe By:
Jennifer
Updated:

There’s something about the combination of tender beef and vibrant broccoli that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. The rich, savory flavor of Chinese beef and broccoli dances harmoniously with the crunch of fresh veggies, creating a delightful culinary experience that’s hard to resist. Just imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen as this heavenly dish comes together—it’s like a warm hug from your favorite takeout restaurant!

Growing up, I can still remember my first encounter with this iconic dish. My family would order it every Friday night, and I’d impatiently wait at the door for the delivery guy, practically salivating at the thought of that glossy sauce coating the beef. It was always a special occasion—a celebratory end to a long week—and now, I get to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a last-minute gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Bursting with flavors, it features savory beef paired with fresh broccoli for a delicious balance.
  • The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, sure to impress your guests.
  • You can customize ingredients based on what you have, allowing for endless versatility in your meal prep.

Ingredients for chinese beef and broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Beef Flank Steak: Choose well-marbled flank steak for tenderness; slice thinly against the grain for maximum flavor and chew.
  • Fresh Broccoli: Look for bright green florets without yellowing; they should be firm and fresh.
  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds amazing flavor; try using larger cloves for an extra punch.
  • Ginger: Fresh ginger brings warmth and depth; peel and grate it finely for the best results.

For the Sauce:

  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
  • Oyster Sauce: Adds richness and depth; look for high-quality brands for maximum flavor impact.
  • Cornstarch: This will thicken your sauce beautifully; mix it with water before adding to avoid clumping.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for chinese beef and broccoli

How to Make chinese beef and broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by slicing your flank steak into thin strips—think of it as creating tasty little ribbons! Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch in a bowl. Add those juicy beef strips into this marinade and let them soak up all that goodness while you prep your veggies.

Step 2: Prepare Broccoli

While your beef is marinating like it’s at an all-you-can-eat buffet, bring a pot of water to boil. Blanch your fresh broccoli florets in boiling water for about two minutes until they’re bright green but still crisp. Drain them quickly and shock them in cold water to keep their vibrant color intact—nobody likes sad-looking vegetables on their plate!

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger

In a hot skillet over medium-high heat (yes, we want some sizzle!), add a splash of oil. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger—let those flavors mingle until fragrant but not burnt. Your kitchen should start smelling like an Asian bistro right about now!

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add your marinated beef strips into the pan (you might hear them sizzle like they’re thanking you) and stir-fry until they’re browned but still tender—about three to four minutes should do it. Make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece its moment of glory!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your beef has cooked through, add in those beautifully blanched broccoli florets—and don’t forget any leftover marinade! Stir everything together until well combined, letting those flavors meld together as they cook just another minute or two.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer this delightful mixture onto plates or bowls—serve over steamed rice or noodles if desired! Drizzle extra sauce on top if you’re feeling extra saucy (pun intended).

Your homemade Chinese beef and broccoli is ready! Gather around the table with friends or family; you’ll be dishing out compliments along with servings in no time!

You Must Know

  • This delicious Chinese beef and broccoli recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining tender beef with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce.
  • It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the beef for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor. Next, quickly sear the beef in a hot pan, then stir-fry the broccoli while preparing the sauce to ensure everything cooks evenly and retains its crispness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the beef for chicken or tofu if you’re looking for variety. Add some sliced bell peppers for extra crunch or experiment with different sauces like hoisin or oyster sauce to give your dish a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through; this keeps the beef tender and avoids soggy broccoli.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfectly tender beef, slice against the grain.
  • Avoid overcooking broccoli; it should remain bright green and crunchy.
  • Finally, always have your ingredients prepped before you start cooking to streamline the process!

I remember making this Chinese beef and broccoli dish for my friends one Friday night. The laughter and compliments about how “restaurant-worthy” it was made me feel like a culinary superstar!

FAQs :

What is the best way to prepare Chinese beef and broccoli?

To prepare the best Chinese beef and broccoli, start by selecting tender cuts of beef, such as flank or sirloin. Slice the beef thinly against the grain for improved tenderness. Marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes. Stir-fry fresh broccoli florets and the marinated beef together in a hot wok with garlic and ginger. This process ensures that the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the vegetables crisp.

Can I use other vegetables in Chinese beef and broccoli?

Yes, you can definitely customize your Chinese beef and broccoli by adding other vegetables. Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just remember to adjust cooking times according to how quickly each vegetable cooks. For instance, add bell peppers earlier so they soften slightly while keeping the broccoli crunchy for texture contrast.

What should I serve with Chinese beef and broccoli?

Chinese beef and broccoli pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with noodles if you prefer a different carbohydrate option. Consider adding a side of egg rolls or spring rolls for extra crunch. These accompaniments not only complement the dish but also create a delightful dining experience that everyone will enjoy.

How do I store leftovers of Chinese beef and broccoli?

To store leftovers of Chinese beef and broccoli, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage, lasting up to three months. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop until heated through. This way, you can enjoy your delicious meal again without losing its original taste.

Conclusion for chinese beef and broccoli :

In conclusion, Chinese beef and broccoli is a delightful dish that brings together tender slices of beef and nutrient-rich broccoli in a savory sauce. By following key preparation steps like marinating the meat properly and stir-frying at high heat, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Customize the recipe with additional vegetables or serve it alongside rice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy this classic dish that is not only delicious but also easy to make!

Print

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade Chinese beef and broccoli, a classic dish that combines tender, marinated beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, bringing the taste of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb beef flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. 1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch mixture. Add beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Prepare Broccoli: Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes, then shock in cold water to retain color.
  3. 3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; add minced garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  4. 4. Cook Beef: Add marinated beef to the skillet and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until browned but tender.
  5. 5. Combine: Add blanched broccoli and any leftover marinade; stir until well combined and heated through.
  6. 6. Serve: Plate the dish over steamed rice or noodles as desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added crunch, consider including bell peppers or snap peas. For a lighter option, substitute beef with chicken or tofu.

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