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Chinese Beef and Broccoli

A comforting and quick dish featuring tender slices of beef and bright green broccoli, glazed in a savory-sweet sauce. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the beef and marinade
  • 1 pound flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced across the grain Freeze for 20 minutes to make slicing easier.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch For the beef marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce Optional, for depth.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or dry sherry Adds brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey Balances the savory.
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch For thickening.
For the dish
  • 1 large head broccoli, trimmed and cut into florets About 4 cups.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Neutral oil with a high smoke point.
  • red pepper flakes or a dash of white pepper (optional)
  • cooked white rice or brown rice for serving

Method
 

Marinating the Beef
  1. In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Let rest for 10 minutes while you prep the broccoli.
Preparing the Broccoli
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the broccoli florets for 1 minute until bright green and slightly tender.
  2. Drain and plunge into ice water to stop cooking; then drain again.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar or sherry, brown sugar, 1/2 cup beef broth, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Stir until sugar dissolves.
Searing the Beef
  1. Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and swirl.
  2. Add half the beef in a single layer and sear for about 30–45 seconds per side until browned but not overcooked. Remove and repeat with the remaining beef.
Building and Thickening the Sauce
  1. Lower heat to medium-high, add the remaining oil, then pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  2. Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and whisk into the simmering sauce. Cook for 30 seconds until glossy and slightly thickened.
Finalizing the Dish
  1. Return the beef and broccoli to the pan and toss to coat, heating through for 1–2 minutes.
  2. Drizzle the remaining teaspoon of sesame oil over the dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like warmth, and serve immediately over steamed rice.

Notes

For a gluten-free meal, substitute tamari for soy sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions without rice for up to 2 months.