If you have ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with savory flavors, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe will become your go-to dinner in no time. Tender, marinated slices of beef paired perfectly with crisp, vibrant broccoli florets all coated in a luscious, glossy sauce make this classic Chinese takeout favorite an absolute winner. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality taste anytime you want with ingredients that are simple yet incredibly essential to achieving that authentic flavor and texture balance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen carefully to create a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and colors that sing together perfectly.
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain: Choosing beef that’s thinly sliced tenderizes it and helps it cook quickly and evenly.
- 1 tsp baking soda: A quick tenderizer that lifts the beef’s texture to silky perfection.
- 1 tsp cornstarch: Helps seal in moisture during marination and thickens the sauce later.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: Adds umami depth and a touch of saltiness to the beef marinade.
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or chicken broth): Injects aromatic complexity and rich flavor into the beef.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (plus 2 tbsp divided): Essential for stir-frying and creating that perfect sear on the beef.
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce: Brings sweetness and an oceanic savoriness that defines traditional Chinese dishes.
- 1½ tbsp soy sauce (for sauce): Balances the oyster sauce with more umami and saltiness.
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce: Adds color and a deeper, molasses-like flavor to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine: Contributes fragrance and a subtle acidity to brighten the dish.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for sauce): Thickens the sauce to cling beautifully to the beef and broccoli.
- 1 tsp sugar: Offsets salty and savory notes with a gentle touch of sweetness.
- 1 cup water or low-sodium beef broth: Forms the base for the sauce, adding moisture and richness.
- 1 tbsp garlic, finely minced: Gives a fragrant punch that elevates every bite.
- 1 lb broccoli florets: Offers a fresh, crisp crunch and vibrant green color to brighten the plate.
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by combining the thinly sliced beef with baking soda, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, and vegetable oil in a bowl. This simple marinade doesn’t just add flavor—it tenderizes the beef, making it buttery soft once cooked. Give it about 15 to 20 minutes to work its magic. This step is crucial because it transforms ordinary meat into melt-in-your-mouth goodness that’s key to this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a pot of water to a boil and drop in the broccoli florets for exactly one minute. Blanching brightens their color and softens them just enough while keeping their snap. After draining, rinse the broccoli under cold water to halt cooking and lock in that vibrant green. Trust me, this small but important step ensures your broccoli will have that perfect balance of tenderness and crunch we all love in this dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Whisk together oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, cornstarch, sugar, and water or broth until smooth in a small bowl. This savory sauce is the soul of the dish, providing richness, depth, and a sticky gloss that ties everything together. Setting this aside lets the cornstarch dissolve fully and prevents lumps later on during cooking.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet on high heat and add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear without stirring for one to two minutes to get a lovely caramelized crust, then stir-fry for another minute until evenly browned. Removing the beef from the wok at this point preserves its tender texture and keeps it from overcooking—which is absolutely vital for getting the right mouthfeel in your Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe.
Step 5: Sauté the Garlic
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil to the hot wok and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for just 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! This quick step infuses the oil and sets a hugely flavorful base for the broccoli and sauce.
Step 6: Combine Broccoli and Sauce
Toss the blanched broccoli into the wok, then pour in the prepared sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 30 seconds. This allows the sauce to start thickening around the broccoli, coating it with glossy, savory goodness.
Step 7: Finish with Beef
Return the seared beef to the wok and stir everything together for one to two minutes. As the sauce thickens further, it beautifully clings to both the beef and broccoli, delivering that classic, mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures. Once everything looks shiny and thoroughly coated, you’re ready to enjoy!
Step 8: Serve Immediately
To enjoy your homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe to the fullest, serve it piping hot over a bowl of steamed rice or alongside your favorite noodles. The combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any table.
How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few sliced green onions on top can elevate the presentation and add subtle nutty or fresh herbal notes. These simple garnishes give both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor contrast that makes your Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This dish shines beautifully accompanied by fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up all that delicious sauce. Alternatively, serving it alongside stir-fried noodles or a light cucumber salad makes for a balanced and satisfying meal. The mildness of these sides lets the beef and broccoli take center stage.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, try serving the beef and broccoli in individual lettuce cups or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Another fun idea is to plate it in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of chili oil or fresh cilantro leaves to add pops of color and a touch of heat. These creative touches make this classic dish feel brand new and exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully as it rests, making for an even tastier next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw refrigerated overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for the best texture and flavor, as the beef can become tough.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Yes, sirloin or flank steak are preferred because they’re tender and cook quickly, but you can also use ribeye or even skirt steak if you slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Definitely! You can swap beef for tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Just give your tofu a good press and marinate it similarly for flavor.
What can I substitute for Shaoxing wine?
If you don’t have Shaoxing wine on hand, dry sherry or even chicken broth work well as alternatives, providing that mild acidity and depth.
How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?
Blanching the broccoli for only one minute and immediately rinsing with cold water locks in its bright color and keeps it crisp-tender, which is key for the perfect texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and check that your oyster sauce is gluten-free. Many Asian brands offer gluten-free versions now.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The harmony of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and rich, flavorful sauce is irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a beloved classic in your kitchen as well!
