Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and delicious homemade version of a classic Chinese-American takeout dish. It features tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, making it a healthier and faster alternative to ordering in.
Author:Janet
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:3-4 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Stir Fry
Cuisine:Chinese-American
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp cornstarch / cornflour
1/4 cup water
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp dark soy sauce
1 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce
1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
1/8 tsp Chinese five spice powder
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
1/8 tsp black pepper
For the Stir Fry:
2 tbsp oil
12 oz / 360g beef fillet, flank, or rump
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
1 tsp fresh ginger, finely chopped
4-5 cups broccoli florets (from 1 head), cooked
1 cup water
For Serving:
Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water. Stir to dissolve, then add the sugar, soy sauces, Shaoxing wine, Chinese five-spice powder, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef into 1/4" (0.5 cm) thick slices against the grain. Place the sliced beef in a bowl and add 2 tablespoons of the sauce mixture. Set aside.
Stir Fry the Beef: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer, allowing it to brown for about 1 minute without stirring. Then, stir-fry for another 10 seconds. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds or until the beef is no longer pink.
Add the Sauce: Pour the remaining sauce mixture and 1 cup of water into the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the beef is coated in the sauce.
Add the Broccoli: When the sauce starts bubbling, add the cooked broccoli. Stir to coat the broccoli in the sauce, then let it simmer for 1 minute, or until the sauce thickens.
Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Notes
For tenderizing the beef, you can "velvet" it by marinating it with cornstarch, water, and oil for 30 minutes before cooking.
Fresh broccoli is recommended, but you can substitute frozen broccoli if necessary. Ensure it's thawed and drained.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili to the sauce.
To make this gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute for regular soy sauce.