This Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe is the perfect homemade takeout-inspired dish, featuring tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce that’s just like your favorite restaurant’s version. Velvety beef, a flavorful sauce with soy sauce, Chinese Five Spice Powder, and sugar, and quick stir-frying come together to create a satisfying, comforting meal in only 25 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe rivals traditional Chinese takeout.
500g (1 lb) beef (flank steak or skirt steak recommended)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine or dry sherry
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch)
1/2 teaspoon Chinese Five Spice Powder
1/2 cup water
Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain. Tenderize by sprinkling with 3/4 teaspoon baking soda, toss to coat, and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
Blanch the Broccoli: Boil a pot of water. Add broccoli florets and cook for 1 minute, then drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, sugar, cornflour, Chinese Five Spice Powder, and water. Stir until dissolved.
Stir-Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add beef and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Combine: Add broccoli and pour the sauce over beef. Stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
Serve: Serve immediately on plates and enjoy.
To tenderize the beef, use baking soda, which helps break down the proteins for a juicy, soft texture.
For a spicy kick, add chili paste or sliced fresh chilies to the sauce.
If you want a noodle version, stir in cooked noodles during the final step and stir-fry for 2 minutes.