Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a beloved takeout classic that you can easily recreate at home — and it tastes even better! Tender slices of beef are stir-fried with crisp-tender broccoli in a savory, slightly sweet garlic-soy sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a fast, flavorful, and wholesome dish that comes together in just about 30 minutes.

This meal is perfect for busy weeknights, healthier than most restaurant versions, and endlessly customizable. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine or just looking for a satisfying stir-fry, beef and broccoli never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Better than takeout — fresh, flavorful, and made at home.
2. Quick and easy — ready in 30 minutes or less.
3. Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
4. Healthier than restaurant versions — less oil and sodium.
5. Versatile — serve over rice, noodles, or make it low-carb.

Ingredients

• Flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced against the grain)
• Broccoli florets
• Soy sauce
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (grated or minced)
• Brown sugar or honey
• Cornstarch
• Oyster sauce (optional for depth)
• Sesame oil
• Vegetable or canola oil
• Water or beef broth
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce.
• Low-carb/keto: Use tamari or coconut aminos, swap sugar for a low-carb sweetener, and serve over cauliflower rice.
• Vegetable add-ins: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
• Chicken or tofu: Swap out beef for boneless chicken or tofu for a different protein.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Thinly slice beef against the grain and toss with a tablespoon of soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate while prepping other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and a splash of water or broth.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

Boil or steam broccoli for 1–2 minutes until bright green and just tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Sear the beef in a single layer for 2–3 minutes until browned. Do in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Sauce

Lower heat to medium. Add the sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Return the beef and broccoli to the pan, toss to coat, and cook another 2–3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli — it should stay bright and crisp.
• Use a hot pan to quickly sear beef and avoid steaming.
• Add a cornstarch slurry if the sauce needs extra thickening.
• Marinating the beef briefly in soy sauce and cornstarch helps tenderize it and create a silky coating.

How to Serve

Serve Beef and Broccoli over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, rice noodles, or cauliflower rice. It also pairs well with a side of egg rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooled beef and broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

FAQs

1. What cut of beef is best for this recipe?

Flank steak or sirloin are ideal — both are flavorful and tender when sliced thinly against the grain.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before adding to the pan to avoid excess moisture.

3. Why do I coat the beef in cornstarch?

It helps tenderize the beef and gives it a smooth texture while slightly thickening the sauce.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and slice the beef in advance to save time.

5. Is oyster sauce necessary?

No, but it adds extra umami depth. You can skip it or substitute with hoisin sauce.

6. Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely. Use thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh and cook the same way.

7. How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and skip or sub the oyster sauce with a GF alternative.

8. What can I serve it with besides rice?

Try noodles, quinoa, or steamed vegetables like bok choy or cabbage.

9. How do I prevent overcooking the beef?

Sear it quickly in a hot pan and don’t overcrowd the skillet — cook in batches if necessary.

10. Can I double the sauce?

Yes — if you like extra sauce for your rice or noodles, doubling the sauce works great.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a fast, delicious, and satisfying stir-fry that delivers all the flavor of your favorite takeout — without the price tag or wait. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a bold, savory sauce, this recipe is sure to become a regular on your weeknight menu. It’s versatile, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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