Chinese Beef and Broccoli
A quick and easy take on a classic Chinese dish featuring tender beef and crisp broccoli in a glossy, savory sauce.
Ingredients
Sauce ingredients
- 1 tbsp cornstarch Creates body in the sauce so it coats beef and broccoli.
- 2 tbsp water Used to dissolve the cornstarch.
- 1 tbsp sugar Balances salty-savory notes.
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce Adds color and umami.
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce Brightens the flavor.
- 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine) Adds aroma; can be swapped with a non-alcoholic version.
- 1/2 tsp Chinese five spice Adds a whisper of warm spice.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil Optional; for finishing.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper Gives gentle heat and aroma.
Main ingredients
- 1 lb beef fillet, flank, or rump Slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
- 3 cloves garlic Minced; for flavor.
- 1 inch fresh ginger Grated or minced; for savory bite.
- 4 cups broccoli florets Par-cooked for a bright green, crisp-tender finish.
- 2 tbsp oil For high-heat searing.
- 1 cup water Helps steam the broccoli and marry flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Freeze beef for 15 to 20 minutes for easier slicing and then slice thinly against the grain.
- In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, water, sugar, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, the alcohol-free Shaoxing substitute, five spice, sesame oil if using, and black pepper until smooth.
- Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender; then drain well.
Cooking
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add half the beef in a single layer and sear for 45 to 60 seconds per side until browned; remove and repeat with remaining oil and beef.
- Lower heat to medium and add garlic and ginger to bloom, stirring for 20 to 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return beef to the pan, add broccoli and 1 cup water. Pour in the whisked sauce, stirring constantly.
- Increase heat to medium-high and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Serve immediately over steamed rice and drizzle with a few drops of sesame oil, if desired.
Notes
For best results, slice beef thinly against the grain, pat dry before searing to promote browning, and avoid overcooking the broccoli.