Name: Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 4 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; ¼ cup beef broth or water; 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

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Introduction

Craving takeout but want something healthier and quicker at home? Chinese Beef and Broccoli is your answer. This timeless stir-fry brings restaurant flavors to your kitchen with minimal effort and everyday ingredients. Tender slices of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce come together in just one pan—and in under 30 minutes!

Whether you're cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish hits the sweet spot between delicious and doable. Trust us: once you try this homemade version, you’ll never want to order out again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Ready in under 30 minutes
✅ Made with pantry staples
✅ Low effort, big flavor
✅ Easily customizable (chicken, shrimp, tofu!)
✅ Perfect balance of tender meat and crisp veggies
✅ Tastes just like your favorite Chinese takeout—if not better!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stir-Fry:

1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
Substitute: Chicken breast, tofu, or shrimp for a different twist.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Tip: Use sesame oil for extra flavor.
4 cups broccoli florets
Pro Tip: Blanching the broccoli before stir-frying helps maintain bright color and crunch.
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Substitute: ¼ teaspoon ground ginger if you don’t have fresh.

For the Sauce:

¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
Optional but highly recommended for depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoon water)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
¼ cup beef broth or water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the beef
Slice your beef thinly against the grain. This ensures tender results. Set aside.
Make the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Add the cornstarch slurry last and mix well.
Blanch the broccoli (optional but recommended)
Bring a pot of water to a boil, add broccoli, and cook for 1–2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sear the beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté garlic and ginger
In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir-fry everything
Add the broccoli and cooked beef back into the pan. Pour in the sauce. Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is coated.
Serve hot
Best served over steamed white rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips:

🥡 Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Reheating Tips:

🔥 Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to revive the sauce.

Variations:

🥬 Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas.
🐔 Swap beef for chicken or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
🌶 Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.

Nutrition Facts

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat
450	30g	18g	28g

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I use a different cut of beef?
✅ Yes! Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin are all great options. Just slice thinly against the grain.

❓ Can I make this gluten-free?
✅ Absolutely! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and check your oyster sauce label.

❓ Why is my beef tough?
❌ You might have overcooked it or sliced it incorrectly. Always cut against the grain and sear quickly over high heat.

❓ Can I freeze Chinese Beef and Broccoli?
✅ Yes, but it’s best fresh. If freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
✅ Yes! Prep the sauce and slice the beef in advance. Cook when ready to eat for the best texture.

❓ What can I serve this with?
✅ Classic white rice, brown rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli is the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this easy stir-fry delivers every time.

✨ Try it tonight and share your version with us on Pinterest @Simple Recipes !