Name: Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain; 3 cups broccoli florets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

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If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of tender meat and crisp veggies swimming in a luscious sauce, then you are about to fall head over heels for this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe. It captures the essence of authentic takeout but can be whipped up in your own kitchen in just 30 minutes. Imagine thinly sliced beef that melts in your mouth paired with vibrant, crunchy broccoli all coated in a savory, slightly sweet soy-based sauce—the kind of comfort food that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and bound to become a dinner staple you’ll reach for time and time again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows seven white bowls on a white marbled surface, each containing different ingredients. The largest bowl at the bottom holds many thin strips of raw red beef with visible marbling. To the right is a bowl full of fresh green broccoli florets. Above that is a small white bowl filled with a dark brown liquid. Next to it is a small white bowl with a golden liquid, likely honey or syrup. Another bowl contains a white powdery substance, probably cornstarch, and beside it, a small white bowl holds a mix of white and black pepper. The final bowl contains light brown soft sugar. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s adding texture, flavor, or that irresistible glossy sauce that makes every bite sing. Getting these essentials ready ensures your dish turns out perfectly balanced and delicious.

1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain: This ensures tender beef that cooks quickly without turning chewy.
3 cups broccoli florets: Fresh and crisp for the classic crunch and vibrant color.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: A neutral oil perfect for high-heat cooking to sear the beef and broccoli.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that lifts the whole dish.
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Brings warmth and a subtle zing.
1/3 cup soy sauce: The salty backbone of the sauce with umami depth.
2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds a rich, slightly sweet savoriness that rounds out the flavor.
1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the saltiness for that perfect hint of sweetness.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: For thickening the sauce so it clings beautifully to the beef and broccoli.
1/2 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce base.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: A finishing touch that infuses the dish with a toasty, nutty aroma.

How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by combining the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, beef broth, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and set it aside. Having your sauce ready to go means you can quickly pour it in during cooking without any fuss, locking in all those flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef in a single layer so each piece can sear properly. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is nicely browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside. This step ensures your beef stays juicy and tender instead of stewing in the pan.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and toss in the broccoli florets. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re bright green and tender-crisp. This keeps the broccoli flavorful and perfectly crunchy, which provides a wonderful contrast to the tender beef.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook everything together for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and the ginger releases its spicy zest. This subtle but essential step builds the foundation of flavor that makes Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe so addictive.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir everything well to combine, then cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickens and glazes every piece, marrying all the elements into one harmonious dish. At this point, the beef should be perfectly tender, and the broccoli still crisp.

How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped green onions adds an extra layer of texture and a pop of color to your dish. These simple garnishes make your meal look as enticing as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed jasmine rice or chewy noodles, which soak up the savory sauce and round out the meal. For a lighter option, try serving with cauliflower rice or a side of steamed dumplings.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your stir-fry in crispy lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld delight. Alternatively, plating over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens can add a unique and healthy spin, perfect for impressing guests or mixing up your weekly dinner routine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover stir-fry cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a quick, delicious lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

While freezing can slightly affect the texture of the broccoli, you can freeze your cooked Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave on medium power to prevent overcooking the beef or broccoli. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much, ensuring every bite stays juicy and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry?

Absolutely! Flank steak or sirloin works best because they’re lean and tender when sliced thinly. You can also use ribeye if you prefer a fattier, more flavorful cut. Just be sure to slice against the grain for optimal tenderness.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce or want a vegetarian option, you can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a little mushroom sauce for a similar depth of flavor.

How do I keep the broccoli crisp?

Quick stir-frying over high heat is key to locking in the crunch. Avoid overcooking by cooking it just until bright green and tender-crisp, usually around 3 to 4 minutes. Also, don’t cover the pan to prevent steaming.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tamari in place of regular soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free or substitute accordingly. This way, you don’t have to sacrifice taste while accommodating dietary needs.

Is it okay to prep ingredients ahead of time?

Definitely! You can slice the beef and chop the broccoli a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just store them covered in the fridge to keep everything fresh and ready for a speedy dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry Recipe is truly a winner for anyone craving that comforting, savory, and quick meal that never disappoints. It brings restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to weeknight dish that everyone raves about.