Chinese Beef And Broccoli is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of food enthusiasts around the globe. Originating from the vibrant culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine, this dish showcases tender beef stir-fried with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce that truly embodies the essence of comfort food. Chinese Beef And Broccoli isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a staple in many households. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or served as part of a festive gathering, it never fails to impress. Its popularity can be attributed to its perfect balance of succulent beef and the fresh crunch of broccoli, making it a go-to favorite for both adults and children alike.
What Is Chinese Beef And Broccoli
Chinese Beef And Broccoli is a classic stir-fry dish that pairs thinly sliced, marinated beef with vibrant green broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce. The beef is typically tender and juicy, while the broccoli adds a delightful crunch, creating a satisfying contrast in textures. This dish stands out among other stir-fries due to its simple yet flavorful sauce, often made with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, which complements the beef beautifully. Unlike heavier dishes, Chinese Beef And Broccoli is light yet filling, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Deliciously savory with a hint of sweetness, pleasing to all palates.
- Family-friendly and great for introducing kids to new flavors.
- Versatile – can be served over rice or noodles, or enjoyed on its own.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of Chinese Beef And Broccoli is a delightful dance of sweet and savory notes. The tender beef, marinated to perfection, offers a rich, umami essence, while the broccoli adds a fresh, earthy crunch. Each bite is coated in a glossy sauce that beautifully melds the flavors together, creating a delicious harmony. You might even catch a hint of ginger or garlic that awakens the taste buds, making the dish not just a meal, but a vibrant culinary adventure.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Chinese Beef And Broccoli is not just about taste; it’s also packed with nutrients. Some key ingredients include:
- Beef: High in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Broccoli: A powerhouse of vitamins K and C, promoting a healthy immune system.
- Garlic: Known for its antioxidant properties and potential heart health benefits.
- Ginger: Helps with digestion and adds a zesty kick to the dish.
With these wholesome ingredients, Chinese Beef And Broccoli is a meal you can feel good about serving to your family!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a fantastic Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish, the quality of each ingredient is crucial. First, we have the beef, typically flank steak or sirloin, which provides a rich flavor and tender texture when cooked correctly. The broccoli is not just a vibrant green addition; it adds a satisfying crunch and is packed with vitamins and minerals. The sauce is a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic, which brings depth and umami to the dish. We also use ginger for a hint of warmth and sesame oil for a nutty finish. Cornstarch is essential for marinating the beef, helping to lock in moisture and create a glossy sauce. Finally, green onions not only add freshness but also enhance the dish’s presentation.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Optional Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can swap beef with chicken or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian option. For a different flavor profile, consider using hoisin sauce instead of oyster sauce, or add a splash of rice vinegar for tanginess. If you prefer a bit of heat, throw in some red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers. For a more robust dish, adding a mix of bell peppers or snap peas can enhance the texture and color.
How to Make Chinese Beef And Broccoli
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This technique ensures tenderness. Place the sliced beef in a mixing bowl, and add cornstarch, soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil. Toss everything until the beef is well-coated and let it marinate for about 20 minutes. You’ll notice the beef taking on a shiny appearance, which means it’s absorbing all those delicious flavors.
Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli
While the beef is marinating, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This step locks in their color and crunch, giving a beautiful contrast to the beef.
Step 3: Stir-fry the Beef
Heat your skillet or wok over high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for about 1-2 minutes until it’s browned on one side. Then, stir-fry for another minute until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden brown and fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Broccoli and Sauce
Push the beef to one side of the skillet, and add a bit more oil if necessary. Toss in the blanched broccoli and stir-fry for an additional minute. In a separate small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Pour this sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring everything together to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is nicely combined and bubbling, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the dish to a serving plate, and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli!
What to Serve With
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice, which soak up the delicious sauce. You might also consider serving it with crispy spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For drinks, a light beer or a chilled jasmine tea complements the flavors nicely.
Tips for Success
- Always slice the beef thinly and against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook the beef in batches if necessary to achieve a nice sear.
- Ensure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding the ingredients to prevent steaming.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding a little water or broth if it gets too thick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using thick cuts of beef can lead to chewier, less tender results; always slice thinly.
- Overcooking the broccoli will make it mushy; keep it crisp for the best texture.
- Adding too much sauce can overpower the dish; balance is key.
- Not letting the beef marinate adequately can result in a less flavorful dish.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Reheating
To reheat, you can use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, you can, but ensure you thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce to make it gluten-free.
- Can I make this dish in advance? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and cook just before serving.
- What can I do with leftovers? Leftovers are great for meal prep; you can toss them into salads or wraps for a quick lunch.
Nutritional Info
This dish is estimated to have around 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the portion size. It is rich in protein from the beef and vitamins from the broccoli, making it a balanced meal containing approximately 30g of protein, 15g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat, contributing to a satisfying and nutritious dinner.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner game, then this Chinese Beef And Broccoli recipe is a must-try! The combination of tender beef and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a savory sauce, creates a dish that is not only flavorful but also visually appealing. By using simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can bring the authentic taste of Chinese cuisine right into your home. Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to allow for substitutions, making it accessible for everyone. Trust me, once you try this Chinese Beef And Broccoli, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again. Happy cooking!
Chinese Beef and Broccoli
A quick and easy stir-fry dish featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
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1 lb flank steak or skirt steak
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon peanut oil
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional)
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1/2 cup chicken stock
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
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2 teaspoons brown sugar
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1 head broccoli, cut into bite-size florets
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1 tablespoon peanut oil
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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2 teaspoons ginger, minced
Instructions
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Step 1
Slice beef thinly against the grain. Marinate with soy sauce, peanut oil, cornstarch, and baking soda for 20 minutes. -
Step 2
Blanch broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath. -
Step 3
Heat skillet over high heat, add marinated beef, and stir-fry until browned. Remove beef. -
Step 4
In the same skillet, add peanut oil, garlic, and ginger, then add broccoli. Stir-fry for 1 minute. -
Step 5
Mix chicken stock, rice vinegar, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and brown sugar. Pour over beef and broccoli, stir to combine, and cook until heated through.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.
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