Chinese Beef and Broccoli

why make this recipe

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a flavorful and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine. It’s a perfect balance of tender beef, fresh broccoli, and a savory sauce that brings everything together. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it allows you to enjoy a restaurant-style meal right at home, saving you time and money.

how to make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients:

• 1 lb flank steak (skirt steak, or other cut (*see footnote 1))
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda ((Optional) (*see footnote 1))
• 1/2 cup chicken stock (or beef stock)
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce ((*footnote 2))
• 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) ((*Footnote 3))
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 teaspoons ginger (minced)

Directions:

1. Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Transfer to a small bowl. Add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch (*Footnote 1). Gently mix well by hand until all the slices are coated with a thin layer of sauce. Marinate for 10 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
2. Combine all the ingredients for the sauce in a medium-sized bowl. Mix well.
3. Add 1/4 cup of water to a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until the water begins to boil. Add the broccoli and cover. Steam until the broccoli just turns tender and the water evaporates, about 1 minute. Transfer broccoli to a plate. Wipe the pan with a paper towel held in a pair of tongs if there’s any water left.
4. Add the oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the skillet. Heat over medium-high heat until hot. Spread the steak in a single layer. Allow to cook without touching for 30 seconds, or until the bottom side is browned. Flip to cook the other side for a few seconds. Stir and cook until the surface is lightly charred and the inside is still pink.
5. Add the garlic and ginger. Stir a few times to release the flavor and fragrance.
6. Return the broccoli to the pan. Stir the sauce again to dissolve the cornstarch completely and pour it into the skillet. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Transfer everything to a plate immediately. Serve hot as a main dish.

how to serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli

You can serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli over steamed rice or noodles for a heartier meal. It also makes a great addition to a larger spread, where you can pair it with other dishes like stir-fried vegetables or egg rolls. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a nice touch and a hint of extra flavor.

how to store Chinese Beef and Broccoli

To store leftovers, let the dish cool down completely. Then, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

tips to make Chinese Beef and Broccoli

• Make sure to slice the beef against the grain for tenderness.
• Marinating the beef helps in adding flavor and tenderness.
• Use a nonstick skillet to prevent the beef from sticking and make for easy cleanup.
• Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor.
• Adjust the sauce thickness by altering the amount of cornstarch.

variation (if any)

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for a colorful and nutritious twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce to the sauce mixture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use any tender cut of beef such as sirloin, ribeye, or even ground beef in this recipe.

2. Is there a substitute for Shaoxing wine?
If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, dry sherry or even a splash of rice vinegar can work as a substitute.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. How do I make this recipe less oily?
You can reduce the amount of oil used in marinating the beef and during cooking without sacrificing much flavor.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and cook it just before serving to keep everything fresh.

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