Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a delightful dish beloved by many for its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Combining tender strips of beef with crisp broccoli in a luscious sauce, this recipe is not just easy to make but is also a fantastic way to enjoy a meal that is both nutritious and delicious.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several compelling reasons to whip up a batch of Chinese Beef and Broccoli in your kitchen. Firstly, this dish is incredibly quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive. Secondly, it offers a perfect blend of protein and vegetables, ensuring a balanced meal that can help keep your family satisfied. Finally, making Chinese Beef and Broccoli at home means you can control the ingredients, making it healthier than takeout options while retaining all the wonderful flavors you love.
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Creating this classic dish is a straightforward process that only takes a few steps. With the right ingredients and a little bit of time, you will have a colorful and tasty meal on your table. Below are the ingredients and detailed directions for making Chinese Beef and Broccoli.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak (skirt steak, or other cut)
- 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)
Directions
Prepare the Beef:
Slice the beef against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1 cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Transfer the sliced beef to a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon peanut oil, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Gently mix by hand until all the slices are coated with a thin layer of the marinade. Allow the beef to marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.Make the Sauce:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients for the sauce, which includes 1/2 cup chicken stock, 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce, 2 teaspoons brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.Steam the Broccoli:
Pour 1/4 cup of water into a large non-stick skillet and heat over medium-high until it begins to boil. Add the broccoli florets and cover the skillet. Steam the broccoli for about 1 minute or until it turns tender. Once cooked, transfer the broccoli to a plate and wipe the skillet with a paper towel to remove excess water.Cook the Beef:
Add 1 tablespoon of peanut oil to the skillet and swirl it to coat the bottom. Heat over medium-high until hot. Spread the marinated beef in a single layer in the skillet and let it cook without moving it for 30 seconds, allowing the bottom to brown. Flip the beef to cook the other side for a few seconds, then stir and cook until the surface is lightly charred but the inside remains pink.Add Garlic and Ginger:
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for a short time to release their flavors and fragrances.Combine Ingredients:
Return the steamed broccoli to the pan. Before adding the sauce, stir it again to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, and cook, stirring continuously, for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens.Serve:
Transfer everything to a plate immediately and enjoy your homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli hot as a main dish!
Pro Tips for Success with Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Slice Against the Grain: This is crucial for ensuring your beef is tender. Slicing against the grain breaks down the muscle fibers, making the meat easier to chew.
Prep Everything Before You Start: Have all your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking. This dish cooks quickly, and you won’t want to be scrambling to chop garlic or measure out sauces as it cooks.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the beef in smaller batches. Overcrowding will lower the pan’s temperature and cause the meat to steam instead of sear.
Customize the Vegetables: While broccoli is traditional, feel free to add other veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for added texture and flavor.
Use High Heat: Cooking at a higher temperature gives you that signature stir-fry char, adding depth to the flavor of the dish.
Flavor Variations for Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Spicy Kick: Add some sliced red chilies or a dash of chili oil to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Citrus Zing: A splash of orange juice or zest can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing note to the dish.
Different Proteins: Substitute beef with chicken, tofu, or shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the proteins are cooked through.
Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of hoisin sauce for an extra dimension of flavor if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
Nutty Flavor: Include a handful of cashews or peanuts for a crunchy texture and a nutty taste that complements the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. You might also consider pairing it with a side of egg rolls or dumplings for a fuller meal. For a refreshing contrast, serve a side salad tossed with a light sesame dressing to balance the richness of the beef.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Chinese Beef and Broccoli
To store leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, do so over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the dish from drying out.
If you want to freeze the dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw the beef and broccoli overnight in the fridge and reheat until warmed through.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————–|————–|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates| 30g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
FAQ About Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can opt for other cuts of beef like sirloin, ribeye, or even chuck, depending on your preference and budget. Just remember that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the cut’s tenderness and thickness.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the beef with firm tofu, seitan, or tempeh. Before cooking, marinate the tofu in similar sauces to enhance its flavor. You may want to press the tofu to remove excess moisture for a better texture.
What if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?
If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth, or dry sherry. This will add similar depth to your dish without the alcohol. Alternatively, a mix of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar can work as a non-alcoholic option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the beef marinade and chop the vegetables in advance. Store them separately in the fridge to maintain freshness, and then quickly cook them when you’re ready to eat.
What type of soy sauce should I use?
For this recipe, regular soy sauce is sufficient, but using a combination of light and dark soy sauces creates a richer flavor profile. Dark soy sauce adds color and sweetness, while light soy sauce provides saltiness.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a vibrant, flavorsome dish that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine. With its tender beef strips and crisp broccoli, it’s a satisfying choice for dinner that rivals your favorite restaurant’s offering. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a meal you can tailor to your taste preferences. Enjoy this delightful dish tonight, and savor every bite!
