Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Beef and broccoli is a popular dish that has gained fame worldwide. This simple yet satisfying meal brings the best of both flavors and textures. The tender beef and crisp broccoli come together in a savory sauce that makes every bite a delight. It’s a staple in many households, especially for those who enjoy Asian cuisine.

Cooking at home allows you to customize your meals just the way you like them. This recipe for Chinese Beef and Broccoli is one that you can easily recreate. It uses fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques. Let’s dive deeper into why you will love this recipe and how to make it.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

One of the main reasons you will love this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is its ease of preparation. You don’t need extensive cooking skills to make a delicious meal. With just a few steps, you can bring a restaurant-style dish to your dining table.

The flavors in this dish are also remarkable. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a mouthwatering taste. The beef is juicy and tender, while the broccoli adds a nice crunch. Moreover, this meal is packed with nutrition. Broccoli offers vitamins and minerals, while beef provides protein, making it a balanced choice for dinner.

Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences. Whether using different proteins or adding extra vegetables, you can make this dish your own. Additionally, it cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

HOW TO MAKE Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Making Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a straightforward process. Following the steps below, you will soon have a delicious meal ready.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you begin, gather the following equipment:

• A large nonstick skillet or stir-fry pan
• A small bowl for marinating the beef
• A medium-sized bowl for the sauce
• Tongs
• A cutting board
• A sharp knife
• A measuring spoon
• A spoon for stirring

 

 

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or any 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-size florets)
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep the Beef
   Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Transfer it to a small bowl. Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Gently mix everything by hand until all slices are coated with a thin layer of sauce. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Make the Sauce
   In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce. Mix well and set aside.
3. Steam the Broccoli
   Add 1/4 cup water to a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the water starts boiling, add the broccoli and cover the skillet. Steam the broccoli until it is just tender and the water evaporates, about 1 minute. Transfer the broccoli to a plate.
4. Cook the Beef
   Wipe any remaining water from the pan. Add the oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot. Spread the marinated steak in a single layer and let it cook without touching for 30 seconds or until the bottom is browned. Flip the beef and cook the other side for a few seconds. Stir until the surface is lightly charred and the inside is still pink.
5. Add Garlic and Ginger
   Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir a few times to release their flavors.
6. Combine Everything
   Return the steamed broccoli to the pan. Stir the sauce again to dissolve the cornstarch completely, then pour it into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, which should take about 1 minute. Transfer everything to a plate immediately.
7. Serve Hot
   This dish is best served hot as a main course.

HOW TO SERVE Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Chinese Beef and Broccoli can be served in various ways. A simple way is to place a generous portion on a plate. You can serve it with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. If you like heat, consider adding chili flakes or sriracha on the side.

It’s also great to add some sesame seeds for extra crunch. You can customize your presentation by arranging the ingredients attractively. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like green onions, can brighten up the dish.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Chinese Beef and Broccoli

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The meal can last for 3-4 days in the fridge. To reheat, simply microwave it for a minute or two until hot.

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will remain fresh for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a skillet or microwave.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Besides serving with rice or noodles, consider these options:

• Pair with a side salad for a fresh crunch.
• Serve with egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete meal.
• Accompany with a warm bowl of miso soup for added warmth.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to try different proteins or vegetables in this recipe. Here are some variations:

• Substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu for the beef.
• Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Use a different cooking method, like roasting or grilling the beef and broccoli.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. However, make sure to thaw it before cooking for even results.

2. Can I skip the Shaoxing wine?
If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, you can leave it out or substitute it with dry sherry or even chicken broth.

3. Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that your other ingredients are labeled as gluten-free.

4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch mixed with water and stir it in the sauce while it simmers.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chinese Beef and Broccoli

To save time, you can prepare some of the ingredients ahead of time. Slice the beef and marinate it a few hours before cooking. You can also chop the broccoli and mince the garlic and ginger the day before. Keep everything in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. This makes meal prep quick and easy.

With these tips, you can create a delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish that your family will love! Enjoy your cooking experience and the tasty results.

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