Name: Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: For the Beef and Marinade:; 1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or another cut of your choice); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for tougher cuts like brisket, chuck, or round roast); For the Sauce:; 1/2 cup chicken broth (or beef broth); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional, or substitute with 1/2 teaspoon molasses); 2 teaspoons brown sugar (or white sugar); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; For Stir-frying:; 1 head broccoli, cut into bite-size florets; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons ginger, minced

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This chinese beef and broccoli dish is a popular Chinese take-out favorite, but it’s also easy to make at home. It’s healthier than most take-out options and has tender beef and crisp broccoli, all brought together in a rich brown sauce. This dish is quick, colorful, and delicious, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Serve it over hot rice for an authentic Chinese take-out meal.

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Made in one pan and ready in about 30 minutes.
Healthier than takeout: You control the ingredients for a lighter, healthier meal.
Delicious and savory: Tender beef and crisp broccoli in a rich, flavorful sauce.
Customizable: You can adjust the vegetables or spice level to your preference.

Ingredients

For the Beef and Marinade:

1 lb flank steak (or skirt steak, or another cut of your choice)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for tougher cuts like brisket, chuck, or round roast)

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup chicken broth (or beef broth)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional, or substitute with 1/2 teaspoon molasses)
2 teaspoons brown sugar (or white sugar)
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For Stir-frying:

1 head broccoli, cut into bite-size florets
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons ginger, minced

Directions

Prepare the Beef
Slice the beef against the grain into 1/4-inch thick slices or 1/2-inch sticks. Transfer the beef to a small bowl, then add soy sauce, vegetable oil, and cornstarch. Mix well by hand to coat the beef evenly. Let it marinate for 10 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Prepare the Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), brown sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well to dissolve the cornstarch.
Steam the Broccoli
In a large nonstick skillet, add 1/4 cup of water over medium-high heat. Once the water begins to boil, add the broccoli and cover. Steam the broccoli until it’s just tender (about 1 minute). Transfer the broccoli to a plate and wipe the pan with a paper towel.
Sear the Beef
Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Spread the beef in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds until the bottom side is browned. Flip the beef and cook for another few seconds. Stir and cook until lightly charred but still pink inside.
Add Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir for a few seconds to release their fragrance.
Combine with Broccoli and Sauce
Return the broccoli to the pan. Stir the sauce mixture to dissolve the cornstarch, then pour it into the skillet. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens (about 1 minute).
Serve
Transfer everything to a plate and serve immediately, hot over rice.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 to 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetables: Add other vegetables like sliced carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers to replace or complement the broccoli.
Spicy option: Add a drizzle of chili oil or a splash of sriracha for some heat.
Different beef cuts: You can use a tougher cut of beef like chuck or brisket; just remember to add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to tenderize it.

What to Serve with Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
A side of steamed dumplings or egg rolls would be a perfect addition to complete the meal.

Conclusion

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is an easy, healthy, and flavorful take-out inspired meal that you can make in the comfort of your own home. With juicy beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s a perfect dish for weeknights or meal prepping. Enjoy it with rice or your favorite side dishes for a satisfying dinner!