Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Savor the delicious harmony of tender beef and crisp broccoli in this easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe. Featuring a savory garlic soy sauce that perfectly balances the flavors, this gluten-free dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine right in your own kitchen!
A Quick and Nutritious Meal
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a quick yet nutritious meal. Packed with protein from the beef and essential vitamins from the broccoli, this dish provides a well-rounded meal option that satisfies without compromising health. Busy weeknights can leave you strapped for time in the kitchen, but this recipe requires just 30 minutes from start to finish. You can have a wholesome dinner ready in no time!
Broccoli is often considered a superfood due to its high content of dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, and powerful antioxidants. Incorporating this vegetable into your diet can improve digestion, boost your immune system, and support overall heart health. With the savory flavors of garlic and ginger, this dish not only nourishes but also tantalizes your taste buds.
Customizable Flavors
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions. If you're looking to reduce the sodium content, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or replacing the oyster sauce with a vegetarian alternative. You can also add a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas, to enhance the dish further and create an even more colorful plate.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add sliced chili peppers. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa, making it ideal for anyone looking to expand their culinary repertoire while enjoying the comfort of home-cooked meals.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Chinese Beef and Broccoli is an excellent option for meal prepping. The dish maintains its flavor and texture well when stored, making it suitable for leftovers. You can cook a larger batch over the weekend and portion it out for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Simply store the cooked dish in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and you’ll have healthy, homemade meals ready to go!
This recipe also freezes well, allowing you to enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine anytime you want. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to eat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop for the best results.
Ingredients
For the Beef and Broccoli
- 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if desired)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Beef
In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Broccoli
In the same pan, add the remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds before adding the broccoli florets. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
Combine and Serve
Return the beef to the pan along with the oyster sauce and beef broth. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve hot.
Cooking Tips
To achieve the best flavor and texture, choose high-quality flank steak that is well-trimmed. When slicing the beef, make sure to cut against the grain to ensure tenderness. If you prefer a more succulent texture, consider marinating the beef for longer than the recommended time, even overnight if your schedule allows. This enhances softness and flavor significantly.
When stir-frying, it is crucial to keep the ingredients moving in the pan. This prevents burning and ensures that everything cooks evenly. Using a wok can enhance the cooking experience, allowing for higher temperatures and quicker meals. Plus, the larger surface area helps in evenly cooking the vegetables and protein.
Storage Techniques
Proper storage is essential to keep your Chinese Beef and Broccoli fresh and delicious. To store in the refrigerator, simply transfer any leftover dish into airtight containers. It should ideally be consumed within 3-4 days for the best flavor and safety. Always ensure the dish is cooled down to room temperature before sealing for storage to avoid condensation buildup.
If opting to freeze, remember to allow the dish to fully cool before packing it into storage containers. A good practice is to separate rice from the beef and broccoli, as rice can become mushy upon freezing and reheating. When ready to eat, reheat gently to prevent overheating and loss of tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a healthier option. The rice absorbs the delicious savory sauce, created from the soy and oyster sauce mix, enhancing the overall flavor. If you're gluten-free, ensure your rice and sauce ingredients are certified gluten-free to make the entire meal compliant with your dietary needs.
For an authentic touch, garnish your dish with freshly sliced green onions or sesame seeds before serving. This elevates the presentation while adding an extra splash of flavor. Pairing your meal with a light cucumber salad or fresh spring rolls will round out your dining experience beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken breast or thighs can be substituted for the beef in this recipe.
→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats nicely.
Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Savor the delicious harmony of tender beef and crisp broccoli in this easy Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe. Featuring a savory garlic soy sauce that perfectly balances the flavors, this gluten-free dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine right in your own kitchen!
Created by: Lucy Bennett
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Beef and Broccoli
- 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if desired)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds before adding the broccoli florets. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
Return the beef to the pan along with the oyster sauce and beef broth. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 18g