Name: Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tbsp dark soy sauce ((Note 1)); 1.5 tbsp light soy sauce ((Note 1)); 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine ((Shaoxing wine) (Note 2)); 1/8 tsp Chinese five spice powder ((Note 3)); 1 tsp sesame oil ((optional)); 1/8 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp oil; 12 oz beef fillet, flank or rump ((Note 4 for tenderising option)); 1 clove garlic (finely chopped); 1 tsp fresh ginger (finely chopped); 4-5 cups broccoli florets ((1 head), cooked (Note 5)); 1 cup water; sesame seeds ((optional))

Introduction to Chinese Beef and Broccoli

If you're a young professional juggling a busy schedule, homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish is a fantastic solution for those days when you crave the flavorful experience of Chinese takeout without the hassle of finding time to order. In half the time it would take to wait for delivery, you can whip up this delicious stir-fry right in your kitchen!

Making this dish at home means you have total control over the ingredients. You can choose high-quality beef, select fresh broccoli, and adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Plus, it's healthier than most restaurant versions, as you can limit added sugars and fats.

Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it's also a fantastic way to impress friends or colleagues during a casual dinner. Imagine serving them a vibrant plate of tender beef and perfectly cooked broccoli, all coated in a rich, savory sauce – they'll think you’ve spent hours slaving away!

For a closer look at how to create this delicious dish, be sure to check out the full recipe video and get cooking today!

Ingredients for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Essential ingredients for the stir fry

To whip up a satisfying dish of Chinese Beef and Broccoli, you'll need a handful of essential ingredients that come together to create that iconic flavor. Here's the list:

Beef: 12 oz of flank, fillet, or rump steak
Broccoli: 4-5 cups of broccoli florets (about one medium head)
Garlic & Ginger: 1 clove of garlic and 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
Sauce Components: Cornstarch, dark and light soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, sesame oil (optional), and black pepper
Oil: You'll need some oil for frying, around 2 tablespoons

These basic ingredients set the stage for a delicious stir fry that rivals any Chinese restaurant!

Optional ingredients to enhance the dish

While the essential ingredients create a fantastic base for your Chinese Beef and Broccoli, consider adding these optional components for extra depth of flavor:

Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle on top for crunch and flavor
Vegetables: Sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrients
Spicy Kick: Red chili flakes or Sriracha for those who like a bit of heat
Spring Onions: Chopped for garnish; they add a fresh, crunchy element

Feeling adventurous? Customizing your dish makes it all the more delicious!

Step-by-step preparation of Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Creating a delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish in your kitchen can be simple and rewarding. Let me guide you through the steps to achieve a flavorful stir-fry that'll impress everyone at the dinner table.

Prepare the sauce and tenderize the beef

First things first—let's whip up the sauce! In a bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water until smooth. Then add in 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce, 1.5 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Chinese cooking wine (or a substitute like chicken broth), ⅛ teaspoon of Chinese five spice powder, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (if using), and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper.

Next, if you're using a tougher cut of beef, now's the time to tenderize. You can follow the velveting technique, which involves soaking the slices in the cornstarch mixture for about 30 minutes. This will give you juicy, tender beef while cooking.

Slice the beef and marinate it in the sauce

Once your beef is ready, slice 12 ounces of it—flank or rump are excellent choices—into ¼ inch thick slices, cutting against the grain. This will help keep it tender and flavorful. Place the beef slices into a bowl and mix with 2 tablespoons of the sauce you just prepared. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you get everything else ready.

Heat the skillet and cook the beef

It's time to get cooking! Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a spacious skillet or wok over high heat. Once the oil starts shimmering, add the marinated beef slices. Spread them out in the pan and let them sear for about a minute without stirring, allowing that beautiful browned color to form. This step is crucial for flavor!

Add garlic and ginger for flavor

After a minute, stir the beef for just about 10 seconds, then toss in 1 finely chopped garlic clove and 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger. Stir everything together, cooking for another 30 seconds or until the beef is no longer pink. The aroma is fantastic at this stage!

Stir in the broccoli and sauce

Now that your beef is cooked, pour in the remaining sauce along with 1 cup of water. Stir quickly to mix everything. As the sauce begins to boil, gently fold in 4-5 cups of broccoli florets. Coating the broccoli in the sauce not only makes it taste amazing but also adds that beautiful pop of green color to your dish.

Simmer and serve over rice

Allow your dish to simmer for about one minute. This will help the sauce thicken up beautifully while ensuring the broccoli remains nicely crisp-tender. Remove it from heat and serve your savory creation over a bed of rice. For a little extra flair, consider sprinkling some sesame seeds on top.

Voilà! Enjoy your homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli. Your dinner is not just a tasty treat but a healthier version of the beloved takeout classic. For more delicious recipes, check out Serious Eats and The Woks of Life for additional ideas and inspiration. Happy cooking!

Variations on Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Gluten-free Alternative for the Sauce

For those seeking a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free variety like tamari. This small change ensures that you can still enjoy the rich flavors of Chinese Beef and Broccoli without compromising dietary needs. Also, double-check your cornstarch label, as some brands may contain other additives.

Vegetarian Version Using Tofu

If you’re craving a plant-based option, swap out the beef for tofu. Extra-firm tofu works best—just press it to remove excess moisture, cut into cubes, and lightly fry until golden. This way, you maintain the same textures and flavors as the traditional dish while keeping it entirely vegetarian. You can also experiment with a variety of veggies, such as bell peppers or snap peas, to add even more color and nutrition to your plate!

For more on vegan and vegetarian substitutions, check out Plant-Based on a Budget.

Cooking tips for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Tips for selecting the best beef cut

When preparing Chinese Beef and Broccoli, choosing the right cut of beef is essential for tenderness and flavor. Opt for cuts like flank, sirloin, or rump, which gratefully absorb marinades. These cuts are more forgiving during quick cooking, ensuring they remain succulent. To butcher them right, slice against the grain—this means cutting perpendicular to the muscle fibers, making each bite easier to chew. If you’re looking for more guidance, you can check out this article on beef cuts.

Recommendations for cooking broccoli perfectly

Broccoli is the star alongside beef in this delightful dish. For perfectly cooked broccoli, consider blanching it first. Boil water and add your broccoli for just about 40 seconds—any longer, and it might get mushy! This method keeps them vibrant and crisp. If you prefer steaming, aim for about 3-5 minutes. Both methods preserve the nutrients and color while ensuring a tender crunch that nicely contrasts with the beef. Interested in more cooking techniques? Head over to this kitchen resource.

Serving suggestions for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Best sides to pair with the dish

To elevate your Chinese Beef and Broccoli experience, consider serving it alongside some fluffy white rice or fried rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Steamed jasmine rice is also an excellent option, bringing a fragrant element to the meal.

If you're looking for a more vibrant addition, try a side of stir-fried snap peas or garlic green beans. These not only add color to your plate but a nice crunch, too.

Creative serving ideas for impressing guests

For an impressive presentation, serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli on a large, colorful platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions. You could also consider serving it in individual bowls for a more personal touch.

Why not make it a full Asian-themed dinner? Serve some spring rolls or dumplings as appetizers for a delightful dining experience. Pair your meal with a refreshing mocktail, such as a sparkling ginger-lime soda, to cut through the richness of the dish.

This recipe is sure to impress and become a favorite for any gathering!

Time breakdown for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Preparation time

Prepare your ingredients and sauce in just 10 minutes. This includes slicing the beef and chopping the garlic and ginger, ensuring you're ready for a swift stir-fry.

Cooking time

Once you're ready, the cooking process takes a quick 10 minutes. With high heat and a short cooking time, you'll retain the vibrant colors and textures of the beef and broccoli.

Total time

In a mere 20 minutes, you can have a delicious bowl of Chinese Beef and Broccoli on your table—perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends!

Looking for more quick and healthy meals? Check out these easy stir-fry options to make the most of your time in the kitchen!

Nutritional Facts for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Beef and Broccoli contains approximately 392 calories. This makes it a balanced option for a filling meal without overindulging.

Protein content

Packed with protein, this dish offers about 43.5g per serving, making it an excellent choice for muscle repair and growth.

Key vitamins and minerals

Don't forget the nutrient boost! Each serving also delivers essential vitamins such as Vitamin C (187.3mg) for immunity and Vitamin A (950IU) for eye health, alongside minerals like Iron (3.1mg) and Calcium (100mg) to support overall well-being.

For more detailed insights on your nutritional needs, you might find resources at Healthline or USDA Food Data Central helpful!

FAQ about Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and broccoli in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just reheat everything together when you're ready to eat. For the best flavor, aim to consume it within a couple of days.

What are some quick substitutions for ingredients?

If you're missing an ingredient for your Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish, here are some easy swaps:

Dark soy sauce: Use additional light soy sauce, though the color will be lighter.
Shaoxing wine: Dry sherry or cooking sake work well.
Cornstarch: Opt for arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour as alternatives.
These substitutions help keep your meal delicious even when you're short on specific ingredients!

Why is it important to cut beef against the grain?

Cutting beef against the grain enhances tenderness, making each bite more enjoyable. Look at the meat's fibers and slice perpendicular to their direction. This method shortens the muscle fibers, ensuring that your Chinese Beef and Broccoli is flavorful and soft. For a deeper understanding, you can read more about the science of meat preparation on Serious Eats.

Conclusion on Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Final thoughts on why this dish deserves a spot in your meal rotation

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is not just a stir-fry; it’s a delightful balance of savory beef and fresh broccoli that brings nutrition and flavor to the table. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it’s a dish that fits perfectly into your busy weeknight dinners. Don’t miss out on trying this restaurant-favorite at home!

For more inspiration, check out Serious Eats for variations and tips!