If you’re craving a mouthwatering, quick, and satisfying meal, this Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant dish with tender slices of beef perfectly coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce paired with crisp-tender broccoli. The combination of savory soy, fragrant ginger and garlic, and a hint of Chinese five spice brings a burst of authentic Chinese restaurant flavors right to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends with an easy home-cooked favorite, this recipe delivers impressive taste in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in creating that balanced flavor and texture that makes this dish shine. From tender beef to bright broccoli and the rich, umami-packed sauce, each element is essential and thoughtfully chosen.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch / cornflour: Used to thicken the sauce for that perfect glossy finish.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps dissolve the cornstarch and blends into the sauce for the right consistency.
- 1 tsp sugar: Balances the salty elements with a subtle sweetness.
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce: Adds deep color and rich umami flavor.
- 1 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce: Brings saltiness and brightness without overwhelming.
- 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine): Enhances the savory depth and adds a subtle aromatic note.
- 1/8 tsp Chinese five spice powder: Gives a fragrant warmth with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and star anise.
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional): Offers a toasty, nutty aroma that finishes the dish beautifully.
- 1/8 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right bit of gentle heat.
- 2 tbsp oil: For high-heat stir-frying to get that perfect sear on the beef.
- 12 oz / 360g beef fillet, flank or rump, thinly sliced against the grain: Ensures tender, flavorful bites every time.
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped: Infuses the dish with classic savory notes.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely chopped: Adds that zesty, fresh warmth that pairs perfectly with garlic.
- 4–5 cups broccoli florets (1 head), cooked (par boiled or steamed): Provides crunch and vibrant green color along with healthful goodness.
- 1 cup water: Needed to create the simmering sauce base.
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds a delightful nutty crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by mixing the cornstarch and water until smooth in a bowl. Then add sugar, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, a pinch of Chinese five spice powder, optional sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to blend all the rich and aromatic flavors into your sauce base. This step is what will give your stir fry that signature glossy texture and complex taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
Slice your beef against the grain to about a quarter-inch thickness to keep it tender and easy to chew. Combine the sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of your prepared sauce in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. This brief marination locks in moisture and flavors, giving the beef a great head start before cooking.
Step 3: Heat Oil and Cook Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a hot skillet or wok over high heat until it’s shimmering. Add your marinated beef in a single layer without crowding. Let it sit for about a minute without moving it to develop a beautiful sear and brown edges that add flavor depth. This is the secret to tender beef with a tasty crust.
Step 4: Stir Fry Aromatics
After that initial sear, stir the beef briefly, then toss in the finely chopped garlic and fresh ginger. Stir-fry everything together for about 30 seconds or until the beef loses its pink and the garlic and ginger release their intoxicating fragrance. These aromatics really lift the dish’s flavor profile to another level.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Water
Pour in the rest of the prepared sauce mixture along with one cup of water. Stir quickly and thoroughly to coat the beef and create a flavorful sauce base. This simmer will marry all your ingredients and give the sauce a luscious consistency.
Step 6: Combine Broccoli and Simmer
Once the sauce bubbles up, toss in your cooked broccoli florets. Stir everything well to coat the broccoli with the savory sauce, then let it simmer for another minute. This quick cooking keeps the broccoli crisp-tender and lets the sauce thicken beautifully, binding the whole dish together.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Remove your skillet or wok from the heat immediately to prevent overcooking. Serve this hot, glossy Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe over steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up every bit of that incredible sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like a little extra crunch and visual appeal. Ready to dig in!
How to Serve Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a subtle crunch and nuttiness that elevates both the flavor and presentation. Fresh sliced green onions can bring a pop of color and a mild oniony bite, while chili flakes offer a spicy kick for heat lovers. Don’t underestimate how a thoughtful garnish can make the dish feel special.
Side Dishes
Classic steamed white or brown rice is the ideal canvas for this saucy delight, but you can also serve it with fragrant fried rice or even noodles for more carb variety. A side of pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors. Light, crisp sides keep your meal balanced and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe in a crispy wonton bowl or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. You can plate it family-style on a large platter with fresh lime wedges for squeezing, inviting diners to customize their bites. Presentation that invites sharing makes the meal feel festive and communal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, store any leftover beef and broccoli stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days. The sauce helps retain moisture so the beef doesn’t toughen up too much.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but for best texture, it’s wise to freeze the beef separately from the broccoli if possible. Pack both in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and consume within 1-2 months for optimal flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened or dried out. Heat until steaming hot, and avoid microwaving for too long to keep the beef tender. This stir fry is just as delicious reheated, making it great for quick lunches or dinners.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for the stir fry?
Absolutely! Flank, rump, or sirloin are all fantastic options as long as you slice them thinly against the grain. This ensures your beef stays tender and easy to chew after stir-frying.
Is it necessary to marinate the beef?
Marinating with some of the sauce helps infuse flavor and tenderize the beef quickly. While you can skip it if pressed for time, marinating really enhances the taste and texture in this dish.
Can I substitute broccoli with other vegetables?
Yes! Many people enjoy using baby bok choy, snap peas, or green beans as alternatives. Just make sure to cook them to a similar crisp-tender stage before adding to the stir fry to maintain texture balance.
What can I do if I don’t have Chinese cooking wine?
If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, dry sherry is a great substitute. Otherwise, just omit it, and add a splash of rice vinegar or a bit more soy sauce for depth. The dish will still taste delicious.
How do I achieve the perfect sauce consistency?
The cornstarch slurry mixed into the sauce helps thicken it beautifully during simmering. Make sure to stir well and cook until bubbling to allow the sauce to coat the beef and broccoli evenly with that lovely gloss.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe is truly a gem—quick, bursting with flavor, and endlessly satisfying. Once you try making it yourself, you’ll wonder why you ever paid for takeout because this dish feels like a restaurant favorite without the hassle. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a plate full of savory goodness tonight. You won’t regret it!
Print
Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Chinese Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender slices of beef and crisp broccoli florets cooked in a savory soy-based sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines a rich sauce and stir-frying technique to deliver a classic restaurant-style meal ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tbsp cornstarch / cornflour
- 1/4 cup water (for sauce)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine)
- 1/8 tsp Chinese five spice powder
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Beef and Aromatics
- 12 oz / 360g beef fillet, flank or rump, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or other neutral oil for frying)
Vegetables
- 4 – 5 cups broccoli florets (1 head), cooked (par boiled or steamed)
Additional Liquids and Garnish
- 1 cup water (for stir fry sauce)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup water and whisk until smooth. Add sugar, dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, Chinese five spice powder, optional sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to integrate all ingredients into a smooth sauce.
- Marinate the Beef: Slice the beef into 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thick pieces against the grain for tenderness. Place the sliced beef in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of the prepared sauce. Stir to coat the beef evenly, then set aside to marinate briefly.
- Heat Oil and Cook Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering hot. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and leave it undisturbed for 1 minute to develop a nice sear and browned edges.
- Stir Fry Aromatics: Stir the beef gently for about 10 seconds, then add the finely chopped garlic and ginger. Continue stir-frying for approximately 30 seconds, or until the beef is no longer pink and the garlic and ginger release their fragrant aroma.
- Add Sauce and Water: Pour the remaining sauce mixture and 1 cup of water into the skillet. Stir quickly and thoroughly to combine and evenly distribute the sauce over the beef, starting the simmer.
- Combine Broccoli and Simmer: As the sauce begins to bubble, add the cooked broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir well to coat all the broccoli in the thickening sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about 1 minute, or until the sauce is thickened to your liking.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat immediately to avoid overcooking the beef and broccoli. Serve the stir fry hot over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds if desired for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Slicing the beef against the grain ensures maximum tenderness.
- Broccoli should be pre-cooked by steaming or par boiling to ensure it cooks evenly during stir fry.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference for sweetness.
- Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine) adds authentic flavor; if unavailable, dry sherry can be substituted.
- Sesame oil is optional but adds a lovely nutty aroma and richness to the sauce.
- Do not overcook to maintain crisp broccoli and tender beef texture.
