Did you know that the average takeout Chinese Beef and Broccoli dish contains over 1,500 calories? This recipe delivers the same incredible flavor of your favorite takeout, but with a healthier twist and significantly fewer calories! Get ready to experience the deliciousness of a restaurant-quality Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce, all made in the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients List
This recipe serves 4 and can easily be doubled or tripled. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability.
- Beef: 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain (can substitute flank steak or ribeye for a richer flavor). Pro Tip: Using a meat mallet to slightly pound the beef ensures even cooking and tender results.
- Broccoli: 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 3 cups). Seasonal Variation: Feel free to use other hearty greens like gai lan or bok choy during the off-season.
- Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian adaptation)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup for refined sugar reduction)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- Garnish: 2 green onions, thinly sliced; sesame seeds (optional).

Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (a significant 25% reduction compared to many similar online recipes!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef (5 minutes): In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and half of the minced garlic. Add the sliced beef and marinate while you prep the other ingredients. This step ensures incredibly tender beef in your Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe with tender beef.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce (5 minutes): In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, chicken broth, cornstarch, rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli (5 minutes): Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until crisp-tender, but still vibrant green. Expert Tip: Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should retain a slight crunch.
Step 4: Stir-fry the Beef (5 minutes): Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned and cooked through (about 3-5 minutes). Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Sauce and Combine (5 minutes): Add the prepared sauce to the wok and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the cooked broccoli and beef back to the wok. Toss to coat everything evenly in the savory sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve (Optional, 0 minutes): Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Approximate Calories: 350-400 calories (depending on beef type and substitutions)
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams
- Note: This is an estimate. Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Use a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium or reduced-sodium soy sauce, and taste-test adding more at the end for saltiness.
- Increase Fiber: Increase the amount of broccoli, or add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Leaner Protein: Choose extra-lean ground beef or turkey for a lower-calorie option.
- Whole Grains: Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a boost of fiber and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe with tender beef hot over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. For a more complete meal, add a side of egg rolls or spring rolls. Personalization Tip: Try adding a squeeze of lime or lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Beef: Overcooked beef will be tough. Make sure to follow the timing instructions carefully.
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli will be mushy and lose its vibrant color.
- Not using enough oil: Not having enough oil can make it difficult to properly cook the beef and will result in sticking.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftover Chinese beef and broccoli recipe with tender beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave. For best results, prep the ingredients ahead of time (chop broccoli and slice beef), but only marinade the beef just before cooking.
Conclusion
This recipe demonstrates that you can enjoy a delicious and healthy homemade version of your favorite takeout. Try this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe with tender beef for a flavorful and satisfying meal! Remember to share your culinary creations with us using #HomemadeChineseBeefBroccoli. Share your photos using #UltimateChickenGravy! Explore more delicious recipes on our website!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: You can prep the vegetables and marinate the beef ahead of time. However, stir-frying should be done just before serving for optimal freshness and texture.
Q: What if I don’t have rice wine vinegar? A: Apple cider vinegar or even white wine vinegar can be substituted for similar acidity.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli? A: Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before stir-frying to prevent it from steaming instead of stir-frying.
Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Just be sure to add them at appropriate times to ensure they’re cooked properly.
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Chinese Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- Wok or large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife & cutting board
- Steamer or saucepan for broccoli (optional)
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb 450g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil divided
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
Marinade:
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Stir-Fry Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp cornstarch to thicken
Instructions
Marinate the Beef:
- In a bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Let sit for 10–15 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
Blanch the Broccoli (Optional):
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for 1–2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin, sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch. Set aside.
Cook the Beef:
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add beef in batches and sear 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Stir-Fry Veggies & Sauce:
- Add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger to the wok. Sauté for 30 seconds. Add broccoli, then return beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir to coat.
Thicken & Finish:
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
Serve:
- Spoon over steamed rice or noodles and garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Notes
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