Chinese Beef and Broccoli (Better Than Takeout!)

Created on June 28th, 2025 at 07:49 pm

Better-Than-Takeout Beef and Broccoli in 30 Minutes

A weeknight classic that’s bold, saucy, and quick to make.

There’s something deeply comforting about the combo of juicy beef and crisp broccoli in rich brown sauce. This takeout-style Chinese Beef and Broccoli is extra saucy, packed with flavor, and comes together in one pan — no wok required!

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🥢 Ingredients

For the Beef & Marinade:

• 1 lb boneless flank steak (or skirt steak)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp baking soda (optional for tenderizing tough cuts)

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup chicken or beef stock
• 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 tbsp peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp ginger, minced

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🍳 Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef:
   Slice steak thinly against the grain. Mix with soy sauce, oil, cornstarch (and baking soda if needed). Let sit for 10 mins.
2. Make the Sauce:
   In a bowl, mix stock, soy sauces, Shaoxing wine, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir until smooth.
3. Steam the Broccoli:
   Add ¼ cup water to a skillet, bring to boil. Add broccoli, cover, and steam ~1 minute. Set aside.
4. Sear the Beef:
   Heat oil in the skillet. Add beef in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 30 seconds, flip, then stir until just cooked.
5. Add Aromatics:
   Toss in garlic and ginger. Stir quickly for fragrance 🌬️🔥
6. Combine & Sauce:
   Add broccoli back. Pour in the sauce. Stir until thickened and glossy — about 1 minute.
7. Serve Hot:
   Plate over rice and serve immediately for that cozy takeout feel 🍚🥢

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💡 Pro Tips

• No Wok? No Problem! A flat skillet works perfectly, especially on electric stoves.
• Tender Beef Hack: Add baking soda to tougher cuts for that restaurant-soft texture.
• Extra Veggies? Add carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers — just adjust steaming time.
• Want it Spicy? A splash of chili oil or Sriracha takes it up a notch! 🔥