Name: Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak, skirt steak, or other tender cut of beef; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon peanut oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional); 1/2 cup chicken stock; 2 tablespoons Shaoxing vinegar (or dry sherry vinegar); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce; 2 teaspoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets; 1 tablespoon peanut oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced

Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir is a simple and delicious recipe for classic Chinese beef and broccoli stir-fry, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The combination of tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it a go-to in my kitchen when time is short but the craving for something delicious strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir

This dish is not just about great taste; it also comes with numerous benefits. First, it’s a beef broccoli stir-fry recipe that cooks in under 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it’s packed with nutrients from broccoli, making it a healthy option for dinner. Third, the use of flank steak ensures a tender bite, and the flavor from the sauce elevates the dish. Additionally, you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, making it versatile. Lastly, it offers a great alternative to takeout, giving you control over ingredients and flavor.

Ingredients for Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir

Gather these items:

1 lb flank steak, skirt steak, or other tender cut of beef
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon peanut oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
1/2 cup chicken stock
2 tablespoons Shaoxing vinegar (or dry sherry vinegar)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 head broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
1 tablespoon peanut oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced

How to Make Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir Step-by-Step

Step 1: For tender beef, slightly freeze flank or skirt steak for 20-30 minutes, then slice thinly (1/8-inch) against the grain. In a bowl, combine beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon peanut oil, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and optional baking soda. Toss to coat evenly and set aside to marinate.
Step 2: Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup chicken stock, 2 tablespoons Shaoxing vinegar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce, 2 teaspoons brown sugar, and the remaining 1 tablespoon cornstarch until smooth.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add marinated beef in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary) and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until browned but still pink inside. Remove beef and set aside.
Step 4: Add another tablespoon of peanut oil to the hot wok. Add minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vibrant green and tender-crisp. Add a tablespoon or two of water if needed.
Step 5: Whisk the sauce mixture again and pour it into the wok with the broccoli. Stir as the sauce thickens within 1-2 minutes. Return the seared beef to the wok and toss gently to coat everything with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until beef is cooked through and tender. Serve immediately over steamed rice.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture.
Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
Cook the beef in batches to avoid steaming it.
Make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding ingredients for a good stir-fry.
Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrients.

Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish - Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir

This dish is fantastic served over a bed of steamed rice to soak up the savory sauce. You can also try pairing it with quinoa for a healthier option. For a complete meal, serve it alongside some egg rolls or a simple salad to balance flavors and textures.

How to Store and Reheat Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or stir-fry in a hot skillet for a few minutes. This makes for a great meal prep option, ensuring you have delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir

What’s the secret to perfect Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir?

The secret lies in marinating the beef and ensuring your wok is hot before adding the ingredients. This prevents the beef from steaming, ensuring it stays tender and juicy. The right balance of sauce also makes a significant difference in flavor.

Can I make Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and cook them together when you’re ready to serve. This will save you time while still allowing you to enjoy freshly cooked stir-fry!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef and always use high heat. This helps in achieving that delightful stir-fried texture. Additionally, don’t skip the marinating step as it enhances the beef’s flavor significantly.

Variations of Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir You Can Try

There are several ways to switch up this classic dish! You can use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different protein. Adding bell peppers, snap peas, or water chestnuts can also introduce new textures. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or Szechuan peppercorns. This dish is adaptable to various dietary choices, maintaining its authentic Chinese flavor profile.

Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish - Chinese Beef Broccoli Stir - additional detail

For more tips on cooking techniques, check out this guide on stir-frying. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit this article for inspiration. You can also learn about the health benefits of broccoli here.