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
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 evenly and let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
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.
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 tender but still crisp. If using frozen broccoli, cook until heated through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the beef:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Combine the beef and broccoli:
Return the cooked broccoli to the pan and pour the prepared sauce over the beef and broccoli. Stir to coat evenly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is heated through.
Serve:
Serve the Chinese Beef and Broccoli immediately over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions, if desired.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a pan over medium heat.
Variations:
Add more veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Make it spicy: Add chili flakes, fresh chili, or a tablespoon of sriracha for an extra kick.
Vegan option: Replace the beef with tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based sauce.
Low-carb version: Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to regular rice.