Beef and Broccoli is a beloved dish in Chinese-American cuisine, celebrated for its rich umami flavors, tender beef, and crisp broccoli florets. Rooted in the fusion of Chinese culinary techniques with American tastes, this dish exemplifies the adaptability and creativity of Chinese-American cuisine. A true classic Chinese-American favorite, this dish captures the essence of takeout-style comfort food while being simple to prepare at home. This quick and easy stir-fry is a go-to for busy weeknights and pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles. With a savory sauce that brings everything together, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Taste: A delicious blend of savory soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, balanced with a touch of sweetness. This homemade version rivals your favorite takeout, offering the same bold flavors with fresher, healthier ingredients.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Customizable: Packed with protein and vegetables, and easy to adapt to your dietary needs.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade:
- 500g (1 lb) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For the Stir-Fry:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 heads of broccoli, cut into small florets
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
1. Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, rice wine, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and the cornstarch slurry. Set aside.
3. Blanch the Broccoli
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2 minutes. This step helps retain the broccoli’s vibrant green color and crisp texture, ensuring it stays visually appealing and delicious in the stir-fry. Drain and set aside.
4. Cook the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
5. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the garlic, ginger, and onion for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Combine and Simmer
Return the beef to the wok, along with the blanched broccoli. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir thoroughly, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly coated. Use a gentle tossing motion with a spatula or wooden spoon for best results. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Beef and Broccoli to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or noodles.
Tips for Success
- Slice the Beef Thinly: Thin slices cook faster and remain tender. Freezing the beef for 10-15 minutes beforehand makes slicing easier.
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli ensures a vibrant color and a satisfying crunch.
- Prep in Advance: Stir-frying is a quick process, so have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
Conclusion
Beef and Broccoli is a timeless classic that combines simplicity with bold flavors. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice, garlic fried rice, or even lo mein noodles to create a complete and satisfying meal. Its quick preparation and wholesome ingredients make it a favorite for families and food enthusiasts alike. A true hallmark of Chinese-American cuisine, this dish perfectly embodies the phrase “A Classic Chinese-American Favorite.” Recreate this takeout favorite at home and enjoy a healthier, fresher version that’s tailored to your taste. Try it today and experience the magic of this Chinese-American classic!
