Name: Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon sugar; A pinch of black pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil); 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, minced; 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish); Cooked jasmine rice, to serve

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick, savory dish that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a rich sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe brings the flavors of Chinese cuisine straight to your kitchen in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a speedy dinner option.
One-Pan Meal: Cook everything in one pan, reducing both preparation time and cleanup.
Healthy Option: Packed with lean beef and nutritious broccoli, this dish is a great way to enjoy a balanced meal.
Customizable: You can add extra vegetables or adjust the sauce to fit your tastes.
Affordable: Make restaurant-style beef and broccoli at home without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade:

1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon sugar
A pinch of black pepper

For the Stir Fry:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, minced
2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Cooked jasmine rice, to serve

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a little cold water. Set aside.
Cook the Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until softened and slightly charred. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In the same pan, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until browned, then stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until nearly cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Combine and Finish: Add the prepared stir fry sauce to the pan and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Return the cooked beef and onions to the pan, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve: Serve the beef and broccoli stir fry over cooked jasmine rice and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Extra Veggies: Add additional vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to boost the dish’s nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add some sliced red chilies or a dash of chili paste for a spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

How do I slice the beef thinly against the grain?

Place the beef in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm it up. Use a sharp knife to slice the beef against the grain (across the muscle fibers) into thin strips.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with other cuts such as sirloin or ribeye. Just make sure to slice it thinly for quick cooking.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is also gluten-free, or replace it with a suitable gluten-free alternative.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to your stir fry for more flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Marinate the beef for at least 15 minutes and cook it quickly over high heat. Avoid overcooking to ensure the beef remains tender.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen broccoli if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

Can I use a non-stick pan instead of a wok?

Yes, a large non-stick skillet can be used in place of a wok. Ensure it’s large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce. Allow it to cook for another minute until it reaches your desired thickness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While stir-fries are best served fresh, you can prepare the beef and broccoli in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Reheat and finish the dish before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a perfect combination of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory sauce. It’s quick, easy to make, and can be customized with your favorite veggies or protein options. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or a quick dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy. Enjoy over a bed of jasmine rice for a complete, comforting meal.