Beef and Broccoli

Beef and Broccoli is a classic Chinese takeout dish—tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli florets, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce. This homemade version is faster than delivery, healthier, and packed with even more flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for extra tenderness)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup (120ml) beef broth
• ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• ¼ cup (60ml) water (for steaming broccoli)

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine beef, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, baking soda (if using), and sesame oil. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil.

3. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.

4. Cook the Beef: Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil. Add beef in a single layer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

5. Stir-Fry Aromatics and Broccoli: Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add garlic and ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add blanched broccoli and stir-fry for 1 minute.

6. Combine and Sauce: Return beef to the wok. Pour in the sauce and toss to coat. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until sauce thickens.

7. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

Pro-Tips for Picture-Perfect Beef and Broccoli

• Slice Beef Thinly Against the Grain: Ensures tenderness.
• Velvet the Beef: Cornstarch creates a silky texture.
• Blanch Broccoli: Keeps it bright green and crisp.
• Don’t Overcook: Cook beef just until browned.

This Beef and Broccoli is quick, flavorful, and better than takeout.