Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Introduction

If you’ve ever craved a restaurant-style Chinese dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is your new go-to. It combines tender beef slices in a savory garlic-ginger soy sauce with crisp, vibrant broccoli for a perfectly balanced meal. Packed with flavor, protein, and nutrients, it’s one of the best quick weeknight dinners — and it tastes even better than takeout!


Ingredients 🥢

For the Beef Marinade:

  • 1 lb (450 g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp sesame oil

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar

For Stir-Fry:

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • ½ cup sliced onions (optional)

Timing ⏱

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 10 minutes
  • Total time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions 👩‍🍳

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, mix beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, beef broth, and rice vinegar until smooth.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Boil or steam broccoli for 2 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add beef and cook 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return beef to the pan, add the sauce, and stir until thickened. Toss in the broccoli and coat everything evenly.


Tips 💡

  • Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Double the sauce if you love it extra saucy for rice or noodles!

Nutrition (per serving) 🧾

  • Calories: ~310
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Fiber: 3 g

Healthier Alternatives 🥦

  • Swap beef with chicken or tofu for a lighter version.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce and brown rice noodles for reduced salt and carbs.
  • Add extra veggies like carrots, mushrooms, or snow peas for a colorful boost.

Serving Suggestions 🍚

Serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for that authentic restaurant look.


Mistakes to Avoid ⚠️

  • Don’t overcook the broccoli — keep it crisp and green.
  • Avoid crowding the pan; cook the beef in batches for the perfect sear.
  • Make sure the sauce thickens slightly before adding the broccoli.

Storing Tips 🥡

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.


Conclusion

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe brings together simplicity, nutrition, and unbeatable flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s quick, wholesome, and 100% satisfying. One bite, and you’ll never order takeout again!

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Recipe by SaraCourse: Advice
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

  • 3 cups broccoli florets

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced

Directions

  • Marinate the beef:
  • In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Add sliced beef and let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.
  • Blanch the broccoli:
  • Bring a pot of water to a boil, add broccoli, and cook for 1 minute. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
  • Cook the beef:
  • Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large pan over high heat. Sear the beef until browned, about 2–3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  • Make the sauce:
  • In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds, then pour in oyster sauce, hoisin, beef broth, and brown sugar. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Combine everything:
  • Add beef and broccoli back to the pan. Toss everything in the sauce until evenly coated and heated through.
  • Serve:
  • Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice or noodles, topped with sesame seeds or chili flakes if desired.