Chinese
Beef and Broccoli
A popular Chinese-American stir-fry dish featuring tender slices of beef and fresh broccoli florets in a savory brown sauce.
Watch it madeSeonkyoung Longest · 7:58
Ingredients
- Flank Steak400g
- Broccoli1 head
- Oyster Sauce2 tbsp
- Soy Sauce1 tbsp
- Garlic2 cloves
- Ginger1 slice
- Cornstarch1 tbsp
Method
- Slice the beef against the grain and marinate with soy sauce, cornstarch, and oil for 20 minutes.
- Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 1 minute, then rinse with cold water.
- Sear the beef slices in a hot wok until browned but not fully cooked. Remove beef.
- In the same wok, sauté garlic and ginger. Add the sauce mixture (oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, water).
- Return beef and add broccoli to the wok. Toss until coated and heated through.
Common questions
Can I substitute the flank steak with another cut of beef?
Yes. Sirloin, skirt steak, or flat iron work well if sliced thinly against the grain. Avoid tough stew cuts. If the beef is lean, shorten the sear so it stays tender and doesn’t dry out.
How long should I marinate the beef, and can I marinate it longer?
A 20-minute marinade is enough for thin slices and helps the cornstarch form a light coating. You can go up to 1 hour in the fridge, but much longer isn’t necessary and may make the texture too soft.
What are the most common mistakes when making beef and broccoli?
The biggest mistakes are overcooking the beef, skipping the broccoli blanch, and overcrowding the wok. Also slice the beef against the grain; cutting with the grain makes it chewy even if the cooking is right.
How do I store leftovers, and how long do they keep?
Cool leftovers quickly and refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce and prevent the beef from turning tough.
What should I serve with beef and broccoli?
Steamed jasmine rice is the classic choice because it absorbs the sauce well. It also works with brown rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice. For a fuller meal, add egg rolls, cucumber salad, or simple miso soup.