Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Quick & Flavorful Delight

Published:

by Amelia

Leave a Comment

There’s something about the sizzling sound of beef hitting a hot wok that brings an army of flavors marching to the forefront of my mind. The aroma wafts through the air, and suddenly you’re not just cooking; you’re orchestrating a culinary symphony. Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli is not just a dish; it’s an experience that transports you straight to a bustling street market in Beijing—minus the jet lag and questionable street food decisions.

Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Quick & Flavorful Delight
Jump to:

Imagine tender strips of beef, perfectly cooked, mingling with vibrant green broccoli florets in a shiny soy sauce glaze that glistens like your favorite vacation spot on Instagram. This dish is ideal for those weeknights when you want something quick yet impressive, or perhaps you’re just trying to win some serious brownie points with family or friends. Let’s face it; who doesn’t want to be the kitchen rock star?

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Preparing this Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli is quicker than ordering takeout, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • This dish boasts a delightful balance of savory flavors with tender beef and crisp broccoli.
  • The beautiful colors make it eye-catching, ensuring your dinner table looks as good as it tastes.
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice or noodles, based on your cravings!

Ingredients for Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli

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

  • Beef Flank Steak: I recommend using flank steak for its tenderness and flavor; slice it thinly against the grain for best results.

  • Fresh Broccoli Florets: Choose vibrant green florets for that perfect crunch. You can also use frozen if you’re in a pinch.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic punch; don’t skimp on this!

  • Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and zest; ensure it’s finely grated for even distribution.

  • Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: A must-have for that savory depth without overwhelming saltiness.

  • Oyster Sauce: This gives a rich umami flavor; look for vegetarian options if needed.

  • Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle elevates the dish with its nutty aroma and flavor.

  • Cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent for our sauce; mix it with water to create a slurry.

For the Sauce:

  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding flavor to your sauce.

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

Recipe preparation

How to Make Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Slice the Beef

Start by slicing your flank steak into thin strips—about half an inch thick works well. Place them in a bowl, toss them with cornstarch, and let them marinate while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (or its vegetarian alternative), sesame oil, chicken broth, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch slurry until smooth. Set aside so all those amazing flavors can mingle.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Heat up some oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (you’ll know because it’ll start shimmering), add the beef strips in batches—crowding will cause steaming instead of searing!

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli

After you’ve cooked all the beef (about two minutes per batch), set it aside on a plate. In that same skillet, throw in your broccoli florets along with a splash of water—cover briefly to steam them until they’re bright green but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your broccoli is ready—looking like little green trees ready for battle!—add back in the beef along with that delicious sauce you prepared earlier. Stir everything together until well coated and simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your glorious creation onto plates or bowls over steamed rice or noodles for an extra treat! Drizzle any remaining sauce on top for good measure.

And there you have it! A fabulous home-cooked Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli that’s sure to impress without breaking a sweat—or your budget!

You Must Know

  • This incredible Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is more than just a dinner option; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen.
  • With its vibrant colors and delightful aromas, it promises to be the star of your dining table.
  • Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fancy dinner party, it’s sure to impress everyone.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the beef to enhance flavor, then stir-fry the broccoli while searing the beef in a hot skillet. Combine everything with the sauce for a quick finish that keeps flavors intact.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the broccoli for snap peas or bell peppers if you crave variety. Experiment with different sauces like oyster or teriyaki for an extra flavor kick, or add sesame seeds and green onions as toppings.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To make your Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli shine, remember that high heat is key for perfect searing.
  • Have all ingredients prepped before cooking to streamline the process.
  • For extra tenderness, let beef marinate longer—up to an hour if you have time!

Sharing this dish with friends during my last dinner party was unforgettable; everyone raved about how it tasted just like their favorite takeout but was fresh and homemade!

FAQs

What is the best way to prepare beef for Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

To achieve tender beef in your Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli, use flank steak or sirloin. Start by slicing the beef against the grain into thin strips. Marinate it briefly in a mixture of soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of broth for added flavor. This method not only enhances tenderness but also infuses your dish with rich flavors that complement the broccoli perfectly.

Can I substitute broccoli with another vegetable in Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

Yes, you can easily substitute broccoli with other vegetables if desired. For a different twist, consider using snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy. These vegetables will still provide a satisfying crunch and absorb the savory sauce well. Ensure you adjust cooking times accordingly to maintain their vibrant colors and crisp textures.

How do I make a gluten-free version of Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

To create a gluten-free version of Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli, swap regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both alternatives offer similar flavor profiles without gluten. Additionally, check that any other ingredients used are labeled gluten-free to ensure your dish remains compliant with dietary preferences while still being delicious.

How can I thicken the sauce in Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli?

To thicken the sauce in your Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry before adding it to the stir-fry. This technique allows you to control the thickness of your sauce effectively. Add this mixture towards the end of cooking, stirring constantly until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Conclusion for Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a quick yet satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners. By using tender cuts of beef, fresh broccoli, and an aromatic sauce, you create a flavorful meal that everyone will love. Remember to adjust ingredients according to dietary needs and preferences. With these simple tips in mind, you can enjoy this classic dish made healthier and more accessible for all!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Quick & Flavorful Delight

Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine right to your kitchen. With tender strips of beef, vibrant broccoli florets, and a savory soy sauce glaze, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that transports your taste buds to the bustling streets of Beijing.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (slurry)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)

Instructions

  1. Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips and marinate with cornstarch for about 15 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, chicken broth, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch slurry for the sauce.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook the beef in batches until browned (about 2 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets with a splash of water. Cover briefly to steam until bright green but still crisp (about 2–3 minutes).
  5. Return the beef to the skillet along with the sauce. Stir to combine and simmer until thickened (about 2–3 minutes).
  6. Serve over rice or noodles with any remaining sauce drizzled on top.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star