. Chinese Beef and Broccoli – esrecipes

Chinese Beef and Broccoli

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I still remember my grandmother’s kitchen. The aroma of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce always hung in the air. Weekends were often spent gathered around her table, enjoying simple yet incredibly flavorful meals. One dish, in particular, stands out: her incredibly easy and sa

tisfying Chinese Beef and Broccoli. It wasn’t fancy, but it was pure comfort food. This recipe is my attempt to recreate that feeling, to bring that same warmth and deliciousness to your own kitchen. It’s a classic for a reason – vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly quick to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Forget complicated takeout menus! This homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli is so much better. Seriously. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

  • Restaurant-Quality Flavor: We’re building a rich, savory sauce that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant’s version.
  • Quick & Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add extra veggies, or swap out the protein – it’s entirely up to you!
  • Healthy-ish: Packed with broccoli and lean beef, it’s a surprisingly healthy and balanced meal.
  • Family-Friendly: Most kids adore this dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The Ingredient List: What You’ll Need

Let’s gather the essentials. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples!

For the Beef:

  • 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain (about 1/8 inch thick)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Broccoli:

  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (can substitute with hoisin sauce + a pinch of sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Garnish (Optional):

  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? It’s easier than you think!

1. Marinate the Beef:

  • In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
  • Mix well to coat the beef evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better for more flavor!).

2. Prepare the Broccoli:

  • While the beef marinates, wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
  • Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the wok and set aside.

3. Cook the Beef:

  • Increase the heat to high.
  • Add the marinated beef to the hot wok in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding).
  • Stir-fry the beef for 2-3 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Don’t overcook it, or it’ll become tough!
  • Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce, oyster sauce (or substitute), brown sugar, rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, water, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Make sure there are no lumps of cornstarch.

5. Combine Everything:

  • Return the broccoli and cooked beef to the wok.
  • Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli.
  • Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly. The cornstarch will transform the liquid into a glossy sauce.

6. Serve & Garnish:

  • Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions

Let’s elevate your Chinese Beef and Broccoli game!

Tips for Success:

  • Thinly Slice the Beef: This is KEY for tender beef. Partially freezing the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing makes it easier to get thin, even pieces.
  • High Heat is Important: A hot wok or skillet is essential for that authentic stir-fry flavor. It creates a nice sear and prevents the vegetables from steaming.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Wok: Working in batches with the beef ensures it browns properly instead of steaming.
  • Taste and Adjust: The sauce is your canvas! Adjust the soy sauce, sugar, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste buds.

Variations to Try:

  • Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms.
  • Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes, a dash of chili oil, or a drizzle of sriracha.
  • Different Protein: Substitute chicken, pork, or tofu for the beef.
  • Garlic Lovers: Add 2-3 cloves of minced fresh garlic along with the ginger powder for a deeper garlic flavor.
  • Cashews or Peanuts: Toss in a handful of roasted cashews or peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Classic Combination: Serve over steamed white or brown rice.
  • Noodle Bowl: Toss with your favorite noodles (lo mein, udon, or even spaghetti!).
  • Spring Rolls: Wrap the beef and broccoli mixture in spring roll wrappers for a fun and easy appetizer.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per Serving, based on a recipe yielding 4 servings. Actual values may vary.)

  • Calories: 350-450
  • Protein: 25-35g
  • Fat: 15-25g
  • Carbohydrates: 20-30g

You deserve a delicious, comforting meal without the fuss. This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is your ticket to flavorful weeknight dinners. Don’t be intimidated – it’s easier than you think! Give it a try, and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!

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