Experience the delightful flavors of Chinese cooking with this authentic Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe. This dish combines tender beef slices with vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce that brings the essence of China to your dining table. Perfect for a quick yet gratifying meal, this recipe is bound to be a hit either on busy weekdays or for laid-back weekend dinners.
This dish always reminds me of family gatherings at my grandparents’ house, where food was the centerpiece of our celebrations. My grandmother used to whip up this recipe, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that would draw us all together. Eating this recipe today evokes those cherished moments, making it more than just a meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger infuses the beef and broccoli with a robust flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet.
Family-Friendly: With its familiar flavors and healthy ingredients, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Versatile: It pairs perfectly with rice or noodles and can be adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This ensures the meat stays tender and cooks evenly. Marinate the slices in a mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2
While the beef marinates, chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Blanch them in boiling water for two minutes and then transfer them immediately to an ice bath to keep their bright color and crunch.
Step 3
In a hot skillet, add a touch of oil and sear the marinated beef slices until they are just cooked through. Remove from the pan and set them aside.
Step 4
In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant. Add the broccoli back into the pan, along with a splash of water to help steam the veggies.
Step 5
Return the beef to the skillet and add a sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a bit of sugar. Stir everything to combine, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the beef and broccoli separately. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them together in a skillet, adding a splash of water to help recreate that fresh-out-of-the-pan taste.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with firm tofu or seitan. To add a spicy kick, include some sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes. If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of added salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Chicken is a great alternative that pairs well with the sauce and broccoli. Thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs work best. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
How can I prevent the beef from becoming tough? The key to tender beef is slicing against the grain and marinating it with cornstarch, which helps break down the muscle fibers. Also, avoid overcooking by searing quickly over high heat.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce? If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute it with a mixture of hoisin sauce and soy sauce, or simply increase the amount of soy sauce. This will provide a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile.
Chinese Beef Broccoli Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef flank steak thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Combine soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl to make the marinade.
- Marinate the sliced beef in the sauce for at least 10 minutes.
- Stir-fry the beef in a hot pan until browned, then add broccoli and cook until tender.
