Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Hey y’all! Craving take-out but want something healthier and just as delicious? This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is your answer. With succulent slices of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory, glossy sauce, this classic dish is a weeknight winner and a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or cozy nights in. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Beef and Broccoli

  • Ready in just 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with protein and veggies for a balanced, satisfying meal.
  • Deliciously savory sauce coats every bite, just like your favorite take-out.
  • Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or spice level.
  • Minimal clean-up and uses one skillet or wok for convenience.

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda (optional, for tenderizing beef)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (divided)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (divided)
  • 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece fresh ginger, minced
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium beef broth or water
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Cooked jasmine rice, for serving (optional)

How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

In a medium bowl, toss the sliced flank steak with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and baking soda if using. Marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, sesame oil, and the remaining 2 teaspoons cornstarch. Add beef broth and whisk until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 1 minute until bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Working in batches if necessary, add the beef in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until just browned. Remove to a plate.

Step 5: Cook Aromatics & Combine

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the beef to the pan, add blanched broccoli, and pour in the sauce. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli.

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli hot over steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy!

Notes for Chinese Beef and Broccoli Success

  • Slice beef very thinly against the grain for extra tenderness—learn how at Serious Eats.
  • If you like more sauce, double the sauce ingredients and add a splash of water or broth.
  • For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster/hoisin sauce is gluten-free (Celiac Disease Foundation).

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Variations

  • Chicken and Broccoli: Substitute chicken breast or thigh for beef.
  • Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots for more crunch and color.
  • Spicy Beef and Broccoli: Toss in a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.

Required Equipment for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Medium mixing bowls
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Whisk

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Freeze for up to 2 months, though broccoli may soften slightly after thawing.

Serving Recommendations for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

  • Serve over jasmine or brown rice.
  • Pair with steamed dumplings or egg rolls for a full Chinese feast.
  • Enjoy alongside hot and sour soup or a simple cucumber salad.

Pro Tips for the Best Chinese Beef and Broccoli

  • Use high heat for stir-frying to achieve that classic restaurant-style sear (Bon Appétit wok guide).
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook beef in batches for even browning.
  • Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking; stir-fries move fast!

FAQ: Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Sirloin or skirt steak work well; just slice thinly for tenderness.
How do I keep broccoli green and crisp?
Blanch quickly and rinse in cold water to lock in color and texture.
Is Chinese Beef and Broccoli healthy?
Absolutely! It’s packed with lean protein and veggies—check Healthline for more nutrition info.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4

★★★★★ 4.30 from 132 ratings

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

yield: 4 servings
prep: 15 mins
cook: 15 mins
total: 30 mins
A classic Chinese stir-fry featuring tender beef slices and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a savory garlic soy sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Instructions

  1. 1
    In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Set aside.
  2. 2
    Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove beef and set aside.
  3. 3
    Add the remaining oil to the pan. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  4. 4
    Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Pour in 2 tablespoons water, cover, and steam for another 2 minutes until broccoli is crisp-tender.
  5. 5
    Return the beef to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and the cornstarch slurry. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
  6. 6
    Drizzle with sesame oil, toss to combine, and serve hot with steamed rice.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO

Approximate Information for One Serving

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320cal
Protein: 27 gg
Fat: 16 gg
Saturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Potassium: 0mg
Total Carbs: 18 gg
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Net Carbs: 0g
Vitamin A: 0
Vitamin C: 0mg
Calcium: 0mg
Iron: 0mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

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