Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Easy Stir-Fry

Looking for a dish that’s both flavorful and quick to make? This Chinese Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is a perfect solution for a busy evening. Packed with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s a meal that will leave you and your family craving more. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for those quick family dinners we all need in our lives!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinner ideas
• Combines the richness of beef with the freshness of broccoli for a balanced meal
• A healthier option compared to takeout, fitting into your healthy dinner recipes for weight loss goals
• Easy to customize based on your dietary preferences
• Authentic flavors that will transport your taste buds to China

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe:

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

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to make this authentic Chinese Beef and Broccoli:

1. Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips. In a small bowl, combine the beef with soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Make the Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients. Make sure they’re well combined for the best flavor.
3. Cook the Broccoli: In a large skillet, add a quarter cup of water and bring it to a boil. Add the broccoli, cover, and steam for about a minute until tender. Remove the broccoli and set it aside.
4. Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and let it sear for 30 seconds without stirring. Flip the beef and cook for another few seconds until lightly charred but still pink inside. Remove the beef and set it aside with the broccoli.
5. Add Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir for a few seconds to release their fragrance.
6. Combine Everything: Return the broccoli and beef to the skillet. Stir the sauce again to ensure the cornstarch is dissolved, then pour it over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything together and cook for about a minute until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

• Marinate the Beef: The cornstarch and soy sauce in the marinade help tenderize the beef and give it a better texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli just until tender to keep it crisp and vibrant.
• High Heat is Key: Stir-frying on high heat ensures that the ingredients cook quickly and retain their flavors and textures.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.

How to Serve

This Beef and Broccoli stir-fry is versatile and can be served in several ways:

• Over Rice: Serve it with a side of steamed rice for a classic Chinese meal.
• With Noodles: Toss it with your favorite noodles for a quick and easy pasta recipe.
• As a Main Dish: It’s hearty enough to stand on its own as a main course.

Make Ahead and Storage

Here’s how you can prepare ahead and store leftovers:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and marinate the beef up to a day in advance. Store them in separate containers in the fridge until ready to cook.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

There you have it—a delicious, authentic Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe that’s perfect for quick family dinners and fits into your healthy dinner recipes for weight loss. Give it a try and enjoy the flavors of China in the comfort of your home!