Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Welcome to a Flavorful Journey!

In my kitchen, this dish always brings a smile to the table. Chinese Beef and Broccoli is the kind of recipe that combines tender beef with vibrant broccoli, all smothered in a deliciously savory sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but fulfilling. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it’s straight out of a restaurant. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are countless reasons to add this recipe to your weeknight rotation. First and foremost, it’s quick to prepare, taking under 30 minutes from prep to plate. Budget-friendly too, it makes great use of simple ingredients while delivering big flavor! Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.

With its rich soy sauce notes and tender beef, it makes for a fulfilling dinner that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual meal or something more special.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Preparing Chinese Beef and Broccoli

This recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious. You’ll begin by marinating the beef. While it sits, you can prepare the sauce and the broccoli. Everything comes together quickly in a hot skillet to ensure the beef stays juicy and the broccoli remains crisp. Let’s get started with the ingredients!

What You’ll Need

• 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or any 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 into bite-size florets
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger, minced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Slice the flank steak against the grain into 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick slices or 1-cm (1/2 inch) sticks. Transfer the beef to a bowl and add soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch. Mix gently until coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
2. Make the Sauce: While the beef is marinating, combine all the ingredients for the sauce in a medium bowl and mix well.
3. Steam the Broccoli: In a large nonstick skillet, add 1/4 cup of water over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the broccoli and cover. Steam for about 1 minute until tender, then transfer to a plate.
4. Cook the Beef: Wipe out any remaining water in the skillet and add peanut oil (or vegetable oil). Heat over medium-high heat until hot, then add the beef in a single layer. Cook without touching for about 30 seconds, flip, and cook for an additional few seconds until browned and just pink in the middle.
5. Add Garlic and Ginger: Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for a few seconds until fragrant.
6. Combine Everything: Add the broccoli back to the skillet and stir the sauce again to dissolve any cornstarch lumps. Pour it into the skillet and cook, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Transfer everything to a plate immediately.

Serve hot as a fantastic main dish!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

For an authentic experience, serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or alongside some warm noodles. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top adds a nice touch and a burst of color. Pair it with a light Asian-inspired salad or some spring rolls to round out the meal perfectly!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the beef and broccoli moist. You can also freeze any extras for up to a month. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container!

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Cut with Care: Always slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Don’t Skip the Marinade: This step adds incredible flavor and tenderizes the meat.
• High Heat is Key: Cooking the beef quickly at high heat gives it a delicious char without overcooking.
• Prep in Advance: Chop your broccoli and measure other ingredients before you start cooking to make the process seamless!

Creative Twists

Looking to switch things up? Try swapping the beef for chicken or even venison for a different flavor profile. You can also toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrients. For a spicy kick, add a dash of chili flakes or some sliced chili peppers.

Nutrition Table

Now you’re ready to create this delightful dish that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Chinese Beef and Broccoli!