Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Let me tell you, Beef and Broccoli holds a special place in my heart as one of the ultimate Chinese takeout classics. There’s something truly magical about tender, flavorful strips of beef, vibrant green broccoli, and a glossy, savory sauce that clings to every bite. This recipe is straightforward yet incredibly rewarding, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressing friends with your stir-fry skills. Once you make Beef and Broccoli at home, you may never crave the takeout version again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Beef and Broccoli is in its simplicity—each ingredient is chosen for its role in creating that perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich flavors. Pay close attention to these essentials for the best results; they each play a starring part in the dish’s taste, texture, and vibrant appearance.
- Flank steak (1 lb): Thinly sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness and quick cooking.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps tenderize the beef so every bite melts in your mouth.
- Shaoxing wine (2 tbsp, divided): An essential for authentic Chinese flavor—adds depth and complexity.
- Light soy sauce (3 tbsp, divided): Infuses the dish with salty, savory notes and beautiful color.
- Oyster sauce (2.5 tbsp, divided): Brings rich, slightly sweet umami flavor, essential for the signature sauce.
- White pepper (1/4 tsp): A subtle kick that lifts the flavors perfectly.
- Water (2 tbsp): Keeps your marinade from being too thick and helps everything coat the beef evenly.
- Cornstarch (1.5 tbsp, divided): Helps the beef and sauce stay velvety smooth without clumping.
- Dark soy sauce (2 tbsp): Adds deep color and a molasses-like flavor note to the sauce.
- Granulated sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the salty and savory flavors with just enough sweetness.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (1/2 cup): Gives body and balance to the stir-fry sauce without making it too salty.
- Broccoli (1 lb): Cut into bite-sized florets for a pop of green and a crisp, fresh counterpoint to the beef.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced): The aromatic backbone—don’t skimp on fresh garlic!
- Ginger (1/2 tbsp, minced): Adds brightness and warmth to every bite.
- Toasted sesame oil (1 tsp): A splash at the end brings a nutty, aromatic finish.
- Green onions (for serving): A fresh, crisp topping that livens up your plate.
- Rice (for serving): Fluffy, steaming rice is the classic base that soaks up every drop of that glorious sauce.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by grabbing a good-sized mixing bowl and adding your thinly sliced flank steak. Sprinkle in the baking soda (for that unbeatable tenderness), Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and a tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix well so the marinade coats every strip, then cover and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This step is like a mini spa day for your beef—it truly transforms the texture.
Step 2: Mix the Stir-Fry Sauce
As the beef is marinating, whisk together the remaining oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, chicken broth, and half a tablespoon of cornstarch in a small bowl. This glossy sauce is the real secret behind the authentic taste of Beef and Broccoli, so make sure everything is well combined and ready to go once you start cooking.
Step 3: Boil the Broccoli
Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Drop in your broccoli florets and let them cook for just 1 to 2 minutes—enough to brighten their color and soften them ever so slightly. Drain the broccoli and set aside. This step keeps your veggies perfectly crisp and vibrant.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Spread the marinated beef in a single layer, letting it sear for 30 seconds per side. The high heat works wonders to caramelize the marinade and lock in that juicy flavor. Remove the beef from the pan once it’s browned and set aside—you’ll bring it back soon for the big finish.
Step 5: Stir Fry Everything Together
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan, still on medium-high heat. Toss in your minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until their aroma fills the kitchen. Add the blanched broccoli and stir for a minute, then return the cooked beef to the pan. Pour in your stir-fry sauce, tossing everything together for 1 to 2 minutes. The sauce will thicken up, beautifully coating every morsel. Off the heat, drizzle in toasted sesame oil for that hint of nuttiness and give one last toss.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon your Beef and Broccoli over fluffy white rice and sprinkle liberally with sliced green onions. Each serving is bursting with color, flavor, and that irresistible aroma that makes this dish a crowd-pleaser every time.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli
Garnishes
Garnishing your finished dish can bring it to a whole new level! A generous sprinkle of sliced green onions offers not just color but also a crisp snap and mild onion flavor. Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for crunch and a drizzle of extra sesame oil if you crave more nuttiness. For a pop of heat, scatter on some thinly sliced fresh chili or a shake of crushed red pepper.
Side Dishes
Classic Beef and Broccoli practically begs for some steamed jasmine or white rice underneath, perfect for soaking up all that heavenly sauce. If you want a full homemade takeout feast, pair it with light vegetable spring rolls, a side of fluffy egg fried rice, or even a crisp cucumber salad for refreshing crunch. Stir-fried noodles make a fabulous (and filling) alternative too!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special presentation, serve the Beef and Broccoli family-style on a big platter at the center of your table. Or, try bowl-style plating—rice or noodles on the bottom, topped with a big ladle of the stir-fry and sprinkled with garnishes. For parties, spoon small portions into lettuce cups or on skewers for a fun, appetizer-friendly twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Beef and Broccoli stores wonderfully for lunches or quick dinners the next day. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, so you might find it even tastier the next day!
Freezing
If you plan to freeze, let the stir-fry cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Beef and Broccoli can stay fresh in the freezer for up to two months. Be aware, though, that freezing may slightly soften the broccoli, so don’t be surprised if the texture changes a bit upon reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Beef and Broccoli gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine—cover loosely and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. This helps keep the beef tender and the broccoli from overcooking.
FAQs
What cut of beef is best for Beef and Broccoli?
Flank steak is the most popular choice due to its natural tenderness and how well it soaks up marinades. If you don’t have flank steak, skirt steak or sirloin thinly sliced against the grain work well too.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Just thaw and pat the broccoli dry before adding it to the pan. It may be a touch softer than fresh, but it’s still delicious and convenient for quick dinners.
Is it possible to make Beef and Broccoli gluten free?
Yes, simply substitute the regular soy sauces and oyster sauce with gluten-free alternatives (like tamari and a gluten-free oyster sauce). Always check labels to be certain.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like heat, toss in a sliced chili pepper along with the garlic and ginger, or drizzle a bit of chili oil over the finished dish. A scoop of chili crisp also makes a tasty spicy topping!
Do I really need Shaoxing wine?
Shaoxing wine brings authentic flavor, but if you can’t find it, a dry sherry or even a splash of dry white wine will do in a pinch. The unique aroma and depth it adds to Beef and Broccoli are worth seeking out if possible!
Final Thoughts
It’s honestly hard to beat the combination of flavors and simplicity that Beef and Broccoli brings to your kitchen. Once you’ve tried this homemade version, you’ll keep coming back to it time and again. I encourage you to give it a go, tweak it to your own taste, and share it with the people you love. Happy cooking!
Print
Beef and Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Beef and Broccoli stir-fry recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender slices of marinated beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce come together in a flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced 1/4 inch thick against the grain)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 1 1/2 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb broccoli (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 tablespoon ginger (minced)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Marinate the beef: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef with baking soda, Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, water, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Mix stir-fry sauce: In a bowl, mix oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sugar, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Boil broccoli: Cook broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain.
- Cook the beef: Sear marinated beef in a hot skillet for 30 seconds on each side. Remove from the wok.
- Stir fry everything: Saute garlic and ginger, add broccoli, then beef and stir-fry sauce. Cook until thickened. Finish with sesame oil.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve with rice.
Notes
- Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- Adjust the amount of sugar in the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for variation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Beef and Broccoli, Stir-Fry, Chinese Food, Easy Recipe, Weeknight Dinner
