If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, wonderfully satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. Featuring tender slices of beef cooked to perfection alongside crisp, vibrant broccoli, all coated in a savory, glossy sauce, it’s a classic crowd-pleaser that feels like a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. The balance of textures and the harmony of soy, garlic, and oyster sauce make this stir-fry an unbeatable weeknight favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe right depends on a few simple but essential ingredients that bring richness, texture, and vibrant color to the plate. Each element plays a crucial role, from the tender beef to the bright green broccoli and that luscious sauce that ties everything together.
- Flank steak or sirloin, 1 pound: Thinly sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness and quick cooking.
- Soy sauce, 4 tablespoons (divided): Adds a deep, salty umami flavor crucial for authentic taste.
- Cornstarch, 3 teaspoons (divided): Used in the marinade and sauce, it helps thicken and give the dish that glossy finish.
- Vegetable oil, 3 tablespoons (divided): A neutral oil perfect for high-heat stir-frying.
- Broccoli, 4 cups florets: Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast and vibrant green color.
- Beef broth, 1/2 cup: Used to steam broccoli and add savory depth.
- Oyster sauce, 2 tablespoons: Enhances the stir-fry with a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
- Sugar, 1 teaspoon: Balances the saltiness and brightens the sauce.
- Garlic, 3 cloves minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- Grated fresh ginger, 1 teaspoon: Adds a subtle zing that lifts the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To finish and season perfectly.
- Cooked white rice or noodles: Ideal serving base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by tossing your thinly sliced steak in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. This simple marinade tenderizes the beef and gives it a slight coating that will help the sauce cling later. Let it rest for about 15 minutes — this little bit of patience makes a world of difference.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in your skillet over high heat. Spread the beef in a single layer and stir-fry until it’s nicely browned, which should only take 2-3 minutes. Removing the beef now ensures it stays tender and doesn’t overcook when you add the other ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry them until they start turning a bright, appealing green — about 2 minutes. This quick cooking retains that fresh crunch we all love.
Step 4: Steam the Broccoli
Pour in the beef broth and cover the skillet to let the broccoli steam for 2 more minutes. This step softens the broccoli just enough while keeping that perfect tender-crisp texture that makes this dish so delightful.
Step 5: Sauté Aromatics
Push the broccoli to one side of the pan, add your last tablespoon of oil, then sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds. The aromatic fragrance will instantly fill your kitchen and lift the dish to another level.
Step 6: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the beef to the skillet and add oyster sauce, the remaining soy sauce, sugar, and your cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). Stir everything together quickly — this sauce is rich, savory, and perfectly coats every piece of beef and broccoli.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Cook and stir frequently for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens beautifully. This step is key to achieving that silkiness that makes the dish irresistible and restaurant-worthy.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve
Finish by adding salt and pepper to your taste. Serve this steaming hot over a bed of fluffy white rice or your favorite noodles for a delicious, comforting meal that’s just waiting to be devoured.
How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped scallions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add not only a pop of color but a subtle crunch and additional flavor dimension that really elevate your dish at the last moment.
Side Dishes
This stir-fry shines when paired with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice, garlic fried rice, or even a light noodle dish. For a fresh balance, a crisp cucumber salad or a handful of quick pickled vegetables also works beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe in individual bowls with an extra drizzle of sauce and a wedge of lime on the side for brightness. Alternatively, pile it onto lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb wrap or even use it as a filling for steamed buns for a more playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining most of the flavors and textures when stored correctly.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, the beef and broccoli mixture can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that broccoli may become slightly softer after freezing, so it’s best for reheated meals rather than fresh presentation.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave or warm the stir-fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This keeps everything nice and moist without overcooking the beef.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin is preferred for its tenderness and quick cooking, you can also use ribeye or skirt steak. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Is it necessary to marinate the beef?
Marinating isn’t mandatory but it really boosts the flavor and tenderness. The soy sauce and cornstarch help the beef stay juicy and also thicken the sauce later on.
Can I substitute broccoli with another vegetable?
You can! Alternatives like Chinese broccoli (gai lan), snap peas, or even bok choy work well, each bringing their own crunch and freshness to the dish.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute with hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a bit of mushroom sauce, though the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, so for a gluten-free version of this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe, opt for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm, delicious hug every time you make it. Its perfect harmony of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and that savory sauce is a guaranteed hit whether for a weeknight dinner or sharing with friends. I can’t recommend enough giving it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy and satisfying it is to have this classic dish right in your own kitchen.
Print
Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A classic Chinese stir-fry dish featuring tender slices of flank steak and crisp broccoli florets tossed in a savory oyster and soy sauce glaze. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner served over steamed white rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Beef Marinade
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced beef with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 2 teaspoons cornstarch. Set aside to marinate for about 15 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and stir-fry until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Stir-Fry the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and the broccoli florets. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the broccoli begins to turn bright green and is slightly tender.
- Steam the Broccoli: Pour in the beef broth, cover the skillet, and let it steam the broccoli for an additional 2 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Sauté Aromatics: Push the broccoli to one side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, enhancing the flavor base.
- Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and the cornstarch slurry. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Thicken the Sauce: Cook everything together, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and broccoli evenly, about 2 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked white rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil during the sautéing step.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- Using thinly sliced flank steak ensures quick cooking and tenderness.
- Broccoli can be substituted with other vegetables like bok choy or snap peas for variety.
- The cornstarch slurry is key to achieving a glossy, thick sauce that clings well to the ingredients.
