Let’s Dive into the Flavors of Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Imagine tender slices of beef stir-fried until they’re perfectly charred, paired with bright green broccoli. The rich soy sauce and hint of sweetness envelop every ingredient in a warm embrace. This Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. It strikes just the right note between comfort and nutrition, making it a guilt-free option for the whole family.
Serving Versatility
One of the best things about Chinese Beef and Broccoli is its versatility. You can serve it over fluffy white rice, on a bed of hearty noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal. If you like to keep it simple, you can enjoy this dish on its own, soaking up the delicious sauce with each bite.
Full Recipe Section
Ingredients:
- 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 into bite-sized florets)
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil (*or vegetable oil)
- 3 garlic cloves (*minced)
- 2 teaspoons ginger (*minced)
Directions:
- Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Transfer the sliced beef to a small bowl. Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Gently mix well by hand until all the slices are coated with a thin layer of sauce. Marinate for 10 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
- Combine all the sauce ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and mix well.
- Add 1/4 cup water into a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it starts boiling. Add the broccoli and cover. Steam until the broccoli turns tender, about 1 minute. Transfer the broccoli to a plate. Wipe the pan with a paper towel if needed.
- Add the oil to the pan and swirl to coat. Heat over medium-high heat until hot. Spread the marinated steak in a single layer. Let it cook without moving for 30 seconds, until browned on the bottom. Flip and cook the other side for a few seconds. Stir until the surface is lightly charred but the inside is still pink.
- Add the garlic and ginger, stirring to release their fragrant flavors.
- Return the broccoli to the pan, stir the sauce well, and pour it into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Serve hot on a plate.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 310 per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: Get it on the table in just 20 minutes.
- Budget-friendly ingredients: Most items are pantry staples.
- Big, cozy flavor: You’ll feel right at home with every bite.
- Nutritional value: Packed with protein and veggies.
- Customizability: Make it your own with different sauces or veggies.
Cultural or Cooking Technique Note
This dish hails from the traditions of Chinese cuisine, where stir-frying is a beloved cooking method. It’s all about quick cooking over high heat, resulting in vibrant flavors and crisp-tender vegetables. This technique is perfect for weeknight dinners, packing in plenty of taste without the fuss.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over fluffy white rice to soak up the sauce.
- Toss it with noodles for a hearty twist.
- Wrap in lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy option.
- Save a bowl for lunch the next day; it tastes just as good!
Pro Tips for Success
- Make sure to cut your beef against the grain to keep it tender.
- Control the heat; too high can burn your ingredients.
- Prep everything ahead, so cooking goes smoothly—marinate while you chop!
- If you enjoy a little crunch, keep your broccoli on the firmer side when cooking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month! When reheating, do so gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to keep it moist.
Closing Paragraph
I encourage you to try this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe and make it your own! Whether you tweak the sauce or add your favorite vegetables, there are so many ways to enjoy this dish. Share your creations and let me know what you think—your feedback means the world to me!
🎀 Final Thoughts
Warm meals, like this one, always bring back sweet memories of love and comfort. I’m so glad I could share this with you, and I hope it warms your kitchen and heart just as it does mine.
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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.
- Transfer the sliced beef to a small bowl. Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Gently mix well by hand until all the slices are coated with a thin layer of sauce.
- Marinate for 10 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
- Combine all the sauce ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and mix well.
- Add 1/4 cup water into a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it starts boiling. Add the broccoli and cover. Steam until the broccoli turns tender, about 1 minute.
- Transfer the broccoli to a plate. Wipe the pan with a paper towel if needed.
- Add the oil to the pan and swirl to coat. Heat over medium-high heat until hot.
- Spread the marinated steak in a single layer. Let it cook without moving for 30 seconds, until browned on the bottom.
- Flip and cook the other side for a few seconds. Stir until the surface is lightly charred but the inside is still pink.
- Add the garlic and ginger, stirring to release their fragrant flavors.
- Return the broccoli to the pan, stir the sauce well, and pour it into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.
- Serve hot on a plate.