Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade version of Chinese Beef and Broccoli tastes just like your favorite take-out, but it’s made with fresh ingredients and without the heavy oils or added preservatives. The beef is tender, the broccoli is perfectly cooked, and the sauce is rich, savory, and balanced with just the right amount of sweetness and umami. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes and is made in one pan, making it an easy and convenient meal that’s perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

For the beef and broccoli:

• 1 lb (450 g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for the beef marinade)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 2 teaspoons brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon water (for adjusting sauce consistency)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the beef:

• In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat the beef evenly, and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.

2. Prepare the sauce:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Set aside.

3. Cook the broccoli:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender but still crisp. If you’re using frozen broccoli, cook until heated through. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside.

4. Cook the beef:

• In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the marinated beef to the pan in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the beef in batches.

5. Combine the beef and broccoli:

• Once the beef is cooked, return the broccoli to the pan and pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.

6. Serve:

• Serve the Chinese Beef and Broccoli immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 3-4 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Add more veggies: Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the stir-fry for added color and nutrition.

2. Make it spicier: For a spicier version, add chili flakes, sliced fresh chili, or a tablespoon of sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture.

3. Different protein: You can use chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef if you prefer a different protein.

4. Low-carb version: Serve this dish over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to regular rice.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat in the microwave or in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or even skirt steak for this recipe. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for the best texture.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The beef and broccoli stir-fry is best served fresh, but you can prep the beef, sauce, and vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to cook.

3. What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?

If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can substitute with an equal amount of sweet chili sauce or make a quick substitute by combining soy sauce with a little honey or sugar.

4. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well as fresh in this dish. Simply cook it until it’s heated through and tender.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, to make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Be sure to check the labels to ensure all sauces are gluten-free.

6. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can easily add spice to this dish by incorporating red pepper flakes, fresh chili peppers, or chili paste into the sauce mixture. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

7. Can I add noodles to this dish?

Yes, you can add cooked noodles to the stir-fry for a more filling meal. Simply toss them in after the beef and broccoli are cooked and coated in the sauce.

8. Can I use a wok instead of a skillet?

Yes, a wok works great for stir-frying this dish. The high sides and the ability to distribute heat evenly will help cook everything quickly.

9. How do I slice the beef thinly?

To slice beef thinly, freeze the meat for about 20-30 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut into thin strips against the grain.

10. Can I make this dish in advance and freeze it?

While stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked beef and broccoli (without the sauce) for up to 1-2 months. To serve, reheat it and add the freshly made sauce.

Conclusion

Chinese Beef and Broccoli (One Pan Take-Out) is a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner option that you can make at home with minimal effort. The smoky flavors from the soy sauce and spices, combined with the tender beef and crisp broccoli, create the perfect balance of savory goodness. Whether you’re craving take-out or just want a flavorful, homemade meal, this recipe delivers every time. Plus, it’s made in just one pan, making cleanup quick and easy! Enjoy this tasty dish over rice or noodles for a full, satisfying meal.

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