
Enjoy the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout right at home with this authentic beef and broccoli recipe. Tender strips of beef, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory-slightly sweet sauce come together in a dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners, and much healthier than takeout!
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 1 lb (450 g) beef flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For the Sauce
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) soy sauce
- 2/3 cup (160 ml) beef broth
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
For the Stir-Fry
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine beef, cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic, and ginger.
- Blanch the broccoli: Boil broccoli in salted water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the beef: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Stir-fry the beef for 2–3 minutes until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-fry broccoli: Add remaining oil to the pan and stir-fry broccoli 1–2 minutes.
- Combine and thicken: Return beef to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the beef and broccoli. About 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for the Best Beef and Broccoli
- Slice the beef against the grain for tender bites.
- Cook over high heat for quick, even cooking.
- Blanching broccoli keeps it vibrant and crisp.
- Adjust sweetness or saltiness in the sauce to your preference.
Variations
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.
- Chicken or tofu: Substitute beef with chicken strips or firm tofu.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Extra vegetables: Add bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms.
FAQ
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the beef a few hours in advance for more flavor. Cooked beef and broccoli are best served immediately.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but reduce blanching time to avoid overcooking.
How do I get restaurant-quality flavor?
Use a hot wok or skillet, high heat, and a quick cooking time to keep beef tender and broccoli crisp.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed white or jasmine rice
- Add stir-fried noodles for a noodle bowl
- Pair with egg rolls or spring rolls for a full meal
- Drizzle with extra oyster sauce or soy sauce if desired
Authentic Beef and Broccoli – Easy Homemade Chinese Takeout
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesIngredients
For the beef marinade:
1 lb (450 g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
For the sauce:
1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 cup (60 ml) water
1 teaspoon cornstarch
For the stir-fry:
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Directions
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil. Toss sliced beef in the marinade and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, water, and cornstarch. Set aside.
- Blanch the broccoli: Boil water in a pot, add broccoli florets for 1–2 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add beef in a single layer and sear 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove from pan.
- Stir-fry aromatics: In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine everything: Return beef to the pan, add broccoli, pour in sauce, and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and everything is coated.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
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