Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe
Chinese beef and broccoli is a classic stir fry that’s loved for its bold flavours, tender beef, and crisp, vibrant broccoli. This dish delivers the perfect balance of savoury, slightly sweet, and garlicky notes, all coated in a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every bite. It’s a staple in many Chinese restaurants, but the best part is you can make it just as delicious at home with fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques.
This homemade Chinese beef and broccoli recipe is quick, healthy, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Using thinly sliced beef, fresh broccoli florets, and a flavourful sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness, it comes together in under 30 minutes. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that tastes like takeout but is even better for you.
Why You Need This Recipe
This Chinese beef and broccoli recipe is the perfect solution for busy days when you want something flavourful, healthy, and quick to make. Unlike takeout, you can control the ingredients, adjust the seasoning to your liking, and skip unnecessary oil or additives. The combination of tender, juicy beef and crisp tender broccoli in a savoury garlic ginger sauce delivers a comforting, restaurant quality dish right from your own kitchen.
You’ll love this recipe because it’s versatile, easy to customize, and comes together in less time than it takes to get takeout delivered. It’s high in protein, packed with fresh vegetables, and full of rich, satisfying flavours that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this beef and broccoli stir fry is a go to favourite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
With just a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples, you can make this Chinese beef and broccoli taste just like your favourite takeout only healthier and fresher.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Beef sirloin or flank steak (thinly sliced) | 1 lb (450 g) | 800 |
| Fresh broccoli florets | 4 cups | 100 |
| Soy sauce (low sodium) | ½ cup | 50 |
| Oyster sauce | 3 tablespoons | 45 |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons | 60 |
| Fresh garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 12 |
| Fresh ginger (minced) | 1 tablespoon | 5 |
| Brown sugar | 1 tablespoon | 45 |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Vegetable oil (for cooking) | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Water or beef broth | ½ cup | 0 |
Total calories per serving: ~350 (based on 4 servings; may vary depending on portion size and oil used)
How to Prepare
Start by marinating the thinly sliced beef in a mixture of 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavour. While the beef marinates, steam or blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and crisp tender, then drain and set aside.
Heat a large wok or skillet over medium high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Stir fry the marinated beef in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until just cooked through, then transfer it to a plate. Add the remaining vegetable oil to the pan along with the garlic and ginger, stir frying for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, beef broth or water, and cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water). Let the sauce thicken slightly, then return the beef and broccoli to the pan. Toss everything together until coated in the sauce, and serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Pro Tips
For the most tender beef, slice it thinly against the grain this shortens the muscle fibbers and makes each bite more tender. Partially freezing the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing makes it much easier to cut evenly. Marinating the beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a touch of oil not only seasons it but also creates a protective coating that helps it stay juicy during stir frying.
When cooking, use high heat to quickly sear the beef and lock in its moisture. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the beef to steam rather than sear. For vibrant, crisp tender broccoli, blanch it just until bright green, then shock it in ice water if you’re not cooking it immediately this stops the cooking process and preserves its colour. Finally, adjust the sauce thickness to your preference by adding a splash more broth for a lighter consistency or simmering longer for a richer, thicker coating.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Chinese beef and broccoli pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that soak up its rich, savoury sauce. The most classic choice is fluffy steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice, which balances the bold flavours of the stir fry. For a healthier option, try brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low crab twist. If you prefer noodles, rice noodles make a satisfying base that holds onto the sauce.
As for toppings, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds nutty flavour and a pleasant crunch. Freshly chopped green onions bring brightness, while a drizzle of chilli oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat for spice lovers. You can also serve it with a side of vegetable spring rolls, dumplings, or a light Asian cucumber salad for a complete, restaurant style meal at home.
Conclusion
Chinese beef and broccoli is proof that a wholesome, flavourful meal doesn’t have to take hours to prepare. With tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli, and a savoury garlic ginger sauce, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of taste and texture in every bite. By making it at home, you get all the satisfaction of your favourite takeout while controlling the freshness, quality, and seasoning of each ingredient.
Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or a lighter veggie base, this dish is versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll find it hard to go back to store bought or delivery. It’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to become a repeat favourite in your kitchen.
