Beef and broccoli is a delightful dish that’s perfect for your regular weeknight dinner menu! It’s not only a breeze to whip up, but it’s also healthier than ordering takeout and absolutely scrumptious.
If you’re used to picking up the phone for your beef and broccoli fix, why not give it a shot at home? This takeout-style Chinese beef and broccoli is particularly saucy and speedy to make. Plus, you don’t need a wok to achieve that authentic flavor.
Table of Contents
I’m so excited to share this recipe with you because…
- You can toss everything into just one pan—no need to pre-cook the broccoli separately!
BTW , if your Looking for a plant-based twist? Don’t miss my flavorful Vegan Broccoli and Mushroom Stir Fry – it’s a must-try too!
- This dish is super saucy and pairs perfectly with rice.
What You’ll Need
Choosing the Right Beef Cut
When it comes to making beef and broccoli, I absolutely love using flank steak . It’s my top pick! Skirt steak is a close second. I’d skip the pricier options like strip steak since they’re not only expensive but don’t work as wonderfully in this dish.
Wondering if you can use a more budget-friendly cut of beef without sacrificing tenderness? Keep reading to discover the secret to making your beef extra tender and juicy.
How to Transform a Tough Cut of Beef into Tender Perfection
If you’re working with a tougher cut like brisket, chuck, or round roast, don’t worry! The baking soda method is your friend. This nifty trick, often used in Chinese restaurants, ensures your beef turns out super juicy and tender. Simply sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda (make sure it’s baking soda, not baking powder) into your marinade. Give it a good mix and let it work its magic for at least 30 minutes before cooking. You’ll love the results!
Other vegetable alternatives
Feel free to toss in any other veggies you’d like into this dish!
Why not shake things up a bit? Try swapping half of the broccoli with a cup of sliced carrots, red peppers, snap peas, or snow peas for a colorful twist!
When you’re adding carrots, just pop them in with the broccoli—they’ll steam together beautifully!
If you’re using veggies that cook a bit quicker, just toss them in halfway through the broccoli’s steam time. Let them steam for around 20 to 30 seconds, then pop them back into the pan at the end, when you reach step 6. Enjoy!
Get Everything Ready
Make sure you have the following ingredients ready on your table before you start cooking:
- Flavored beef in marinade
- Delightfully chopped broccoli florets
- Yummy Sauce Combo
- Ginger and garlic in a cozy bowl
As you begin cooking, you’ll want to move swiftly to keep the beef perfectly cooked, so it’s a good idea to have everything prepped and ready beforehand.
The Friendly Face-Off: Wok vs. Skillet
Hey there! I usually suggest that home cooks go for a flat skillet instead of a wok. It’s because a skillet can achieve pretty much the same, if not better results, especially if you’re using an electric stove. Curious for more tips? I’ve got a fun read on this topic with “10 Reasons Not to Use a Wok” and “Wok vs. Stir Fry Pan – Which is the Right Tool for You?” if you want to deeper!
Cooking Chinese beef and broccoli is a delicious adventure, especially with its rich, flavorful sauce that makes skillet cooking a breeze. At home, where stoves might not pack as punch as restaurant ones, you might find yourself cooking in batches. But don’t worry! Using a skillet on an electric stove comes in handy. It provides a larger surface area, ensuring your food sears perfectly every time.
While nearly any nonstick skillet will get the job done for takeout-style beef and broccoli , opting for a deeper pan, like a nonstick deep pan, is preferable. It minimizes spills while stirring. If you prefer using a wok on an electric stove, choose one with a wide base to fully cover the largest heating element.
How to cook beef and broccoli
Whipping up some beef and broccoli is a breeze!
- Use a splash of water to steam the broccoli right in the skillet.
- Sizzle the beef
- Toss in the aromatics and give them a swift stir
- Toss in the sauce and broccoli
- Give it a good mix until the sauce gets nice and thick!
You’re all set!
And hey, if you’re in the mood for a little heat, why not jazz up your beef and broccoli with a splash of chili oil or sriracha for that spicy kick!
This beef and broccoli is deliciously saucy, perfect for soaking into your rice! Just a quick tip: start cooking the rice when you begin making the dish. That way, both will be ready to enjoy together, creating a tasty Chinese dinner experience!
Additional Takeout-Style Stir-Fry Recipes
Making Chinese Cooking Simple and Fun
New around here? Welcome! Our free email series is the perfect starting point. I’ll guide you through some of our most beloved recipes, explaining how they come together and why they’re so delicious. Before you know it, you’ll be whipping up fantastic Chinese dishes right in your own kitchen!
Chinese beef and broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Toss beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let sit 10 mins.
- Heat oil in a pan. Add beef, cook until browned. Remove.
- Add garlic and broccoli to the pan. Stir-fry 2–3 mins.
- Pour in water, cover and steam for 2 mins.
- Return beef to pan. Add oyster sauce and sesame oil.
- Stir-fry 2–3 mins until everything is coated and hot.
Notes
- Calories: 365 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 35g
1. Can I use a different cut of beef instead of flank steak?
Yes! Sirloin or skirt steak are great substitutes. Just slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
2. How do I keep the broccoli crisp and not mushy?
Stir-fry the broccoli quickly and steam it for only 1–2 minutes. Avoid overcooking.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the soy sauce and oyster sauce with gluten-free alternatives like tamari and a gluten-free oyster sauce.
4. Is it okay to meal prep this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cooked beef and broccoli store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
5. What can I serve with beef and broccoli?
Serve it over white rice, brown rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
6. Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?
Definitely! Bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms are great additions to boost nutrition and flavor.
7. How do I prevent the beef from becoming chewy?
Marinate the beef with cornstarch and soy sauce, then cook it quickly over high heat—this locks in moisture and keeps it tender.