Article: Chinese Beef and Broccoli – A Classic Stir Fry That’s Fast, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly
If you love Chinese takeout but want to cook healthier at home, this Beef and Broccoli stir fry (牛肉炒西兰花) is the perfect place to start. It’s fast, flavorful, and requires minimal effort—just one pan and 20 minutes!
As far as easy stir fry meals go, this dish is a winner. Tender strips of beef are cooked with crisp-tender broccoli in a savory garlic-ginger soy sauce that tastes just like your favorite restaurant version, but without the MSG or added sugar.
Whether you’re looking for quick beef dinner recipes or exploring Asian recipes for beginners, this meal fits all the criteria: easy, delicious, and budget-friendly.
🥩 Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (canola or avocado)
- Optional: sesame seeds or green onions for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, mix sliced beef with cornstarch and 1 tbsp soy sauce. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine oyster sauce, hoisin, remaining soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
- Cook the broccoli: In a wok or skillet over medium-high heat, add oil and sauté broccoli with water for 2–3 minutes until bright green. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the beef: Add a bit more oil if needed, then stir-fry the beef for 2–3 minutes until browned.
- Combine: Add broccoli back to the pan, pour in the sauce, and stir everything together until well coated and heated through (about 2–3 minutes).
- Garnish and serve hot over steamed rice or cauliflower rice.
🍽️ Why You’ll Love It
This Chinese beef and broccoli recipe is ideal for busy weeknights. It’s faster than ordering takeout and much healthier. The protein-rich beef and fiber-packed broccoli make a balanced and satisfying meal.
Great for meal prep or quick lunches, it’s also one of the most approachable Asian dinner recipes for beginners. You can even substitute chicken or tofu for the beef to change it up!
Would you like me to continue with the High-Protein Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas next?