Savory Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe to Delight You

Chinese beef and broccoli is a classic dish that hits all the right notes: tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce that dances on your tongue. Imagine sitting down to a plate of this delightful creation, where each bite transports you to a bustling Chinese restaurant, complete with the aroma of garlic and ginger filling the air.

It’s the kind of meal that can turn an ordinary Wednesday night into something special. I fondly remember my first attempt at making this dish—it was a culinary adventure filled with laughter, a few burnt broccoli florets, and plenty of soy sauce spills. But hey, practice makes perfect! So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of homemade Chinese beef and broccoli.

Ingredients for chinese beef and broccoli

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

• Beef Flank Steak: Opt for flank steak as it’s tender when sliced thinly against the grain; about one pound should do the trick.

• Fresh Broccoli: Look for vibrant green florets; they should be firm and tightly packed for the best texture.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; use about three minced cloves for maximum flavor.

• Ginger: A tablespoon of freshly grated ginger enhances the dish’s aromatic quality; it’s essential for that authentic taste.

• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce keeps things tasty but not overly salty—about half a cup will work well.

For the Sauce:

• Cornstarch: This will help thicken your sauce; just two tablespoons mixed with water does wonders.

• Brown Sugar: A tablespoon of brown sugar balances out the flavors nicely, giving it that sweet-savory profile we love.

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

How to Make chinese beef and broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Beef

Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. This ensures tenderness in every bite. If you’re feeling fancy, marinate it briefly in soy sauce and cornstarch while prepping other ingredients.

Step 2: Chop Your Vegetables

Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets—don’t forget those stalks! They’re delicious too! Mince the garlic and grate your ginger to unleash their fragrant goodness.

Step 3: Heat Things Up

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil (sesame oil adds an extra kick). Once hot, toss in the sliced beef. Stir-fry until browned but not cooked through—about three minutes.

Step 4: Add Garlic & Ginger

Throw in that minced garlic and grated ginger next! Stir them around quickly—you want them fragrant but not burnt. This step is where your kitchen starts smelling like heaven.

Step 5: Toss in Broccoli

Add those beautiful green florets into your skillet along with a splash of water or broth to steam them slightly. Cook everything together until your broccoli turns bright green—about three minutes should do it.

Step 6: Make It Saucy

Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch slurry in a bowl then pour it over your beef and broccoli mixture. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens up—this usually takes just a couple of minutes!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your homemade Chinese beef and broccoli while basking in the applause from family or friends—after all, you just turned an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, marinate the beef while you prep the broccoli. Sear the beef in a hot pan before adding the garlic and broccoli for that perfect stir-fry finish. Lastly, combine everything with the sauce for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the beef for chicken or tofu if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add cashews for crunch or switch up the sauce with some ginger or chili paste for extra heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.

It was a typical Friday night when I decided to try my hand at this Chinese beef and broccoli recipe. To my surprise, my family devoured it so quickly that I barely had time to snap a photo!

FAQs :

What is the best way to prepare beef for Chinese beef and broccoli?

The key to preparing beef for Chinese beef and broccoli is to choose the right cut and marinate it properly. Flank steak or sirloin are excellent choices because they are tender and flavorful. Slice the beef thinly against the grain, which helps to ensure tenderness. Marinating with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of sesame oil enhances the flavor and texture. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes before stir-frying. This method locks in moisture and gives you that restaurant-quality taste at home.

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for making Chinese beef and broccoli. Frozen vegetables are often flash-frozen at their peak freshness, retaining nutrients and flavor. However, they may require a slightly shorter cooking time compared to fresh broccoli to avoid overcooking. When using frozen broccoli, add it directly to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking. This ensures it heats through without losing its vibrant color or crunch, complementing the dish beautifully.

What can I serve with Chinese beef and broccoli?

Chinese beef and broccoli pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or fried rice. You can also serve it with noodles for a heartier meal. Adding a side of egg rolls or spring rolls can enhance your dining experience by introducing more textures and flavors. For those looking for a lighter option, consider serving it with a simple cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar. These sides balance well with the savory flavors of the main dish.

How do I make my Chinese beef and broccoli sauce thicker?

To create a thicker sauce for your Chinese beef and broccoli, you can use cornstarch as a thickening agent. Start by mixing one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water until smooth, then slowly stir this mixture into your sauce while it’s simmering. Allow it to cook for an additional minute or two until it thickens to your desired consistency. This technique creates a glossy finish that clings beautifully to both the beef and broccoli.

Conclusion for chinese beef and broccoli :

In summary, Chinese beef and broccoli is a delicious dish that combines tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce. By selecting quality cuts of meat and proper preparation techniques, you can achieve restaurant-style results at home. Remember to balance flavors with side dishes like rice or noodles for a complete meal experience. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create this delightful dish effortlessly, impressing family and friends alike while enjoying its rich flavors every time you make it.

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Chinese Beef and Broccoli

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Chinese beef and broccoli is a beloved dish that brings together tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce. This quick and delicious recipe transforms your weeknight dinners into a flavorful experience reminiscent of your favorite Chinese restaurant. Perfectly balanced with fresh ingredients, it’s easy to customize for any dietary needs. Get ready to impress your family or guests with this delightful meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb flank steak
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp oil (such as sesame or vegetable)

Instructions

1. Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain and marinate briefly in soy sauce and cornstarch mixture.
2. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets; mince garlic and grate ginger.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and stir-fry the beef until browned (about 3 minutes).
4. Add garlic and ginger; stir until fragrant (30 seconds).
5. Toss in broccoli with a splash of water; cook until bright green (about 3 minutes).
6. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch slurry; cook until thickened (2 minutes).
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added crunch, consider tossing in cashews or swapping beef for chicken or tofu. Frozen broccoli can be used but add it during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain texture.