Delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Your Homemade Takeout

Name: Delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli: Your Homemade Takeout
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak or Skirt Steak (Can substitute with brisket or chuck using baking soda.); 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Use tamari for gluten-free.); 1 tablespoon Peanut Oil (Vegetable oil is a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Key for thickening the sauce.); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (Optional for tenderness.); 1 cup Chicken Stock (Can use beef stock.); 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine (Dry sherry is a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Dark Soy Sauce (Regular soy sauce is an alternative.); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (Adjust sweetness to taste.); 4 cups Broccoli (Can mix in snap peas or carrots.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Minced.)

Hi I'm Merry

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on August 28, 2025

The aroma of sizzling beef coated in a savory brown sauce wafts through my kitchen, instantly bringing a piece of my favorite Chinese take-out into my home. This Authentic Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe transforms a beloved restaurant dish into a quick, healthy meal that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when take-out feels more tempting than ever. Not only does it let you enjoy the tender, juicy beef paired with crisp broccoli, but it also allows you to have complete control over the ingredients, making it easier to adapt to any gluten-free diets. With just a handful of ingredients and a flash of cooking skills, you can create a comforting dish that rivals any take-out. Are you ready to whip up this delightful homemade version? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Beef and Broccoli a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you crave a delicious meal without long cooking times.

Healthier Ingredients: Ditch the take-out and enjoy a homemade dish that lets you pick fresh ingredients—lower in calories and sodium!

Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily swap soy sauce for tamari to accommodate gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Bold and savory, a perfect balance of tender beef and crunchy broccoli, sure to impress family and friends.

Versatile Comfort: Not just for beef lovers—try it with tofu for a vegetarian twist! Serve alongside steamed rice or noodles, offering endless possibilities for customization.

With this delightful dish, step away from the fast food routine—your taste buds will thank you! Don’t forget to check out my other recipes, like Mongolian Beef Noodles for even more delicious home-cooked options.

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Ingredients

For the Marinade

Flank Steak or Skirt Steak – This tender cut offers rich flavor; brisket or chuck can be used with baking soda for tenderness.
Soy Sauce – Provides essential umami; switch to tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Peanut Oil (or Vegetable Oil) – Enhances flavor; while vegetable oil works, it will lack a bit of richness.
Cornstarch – Key for thickening the sauce and achieving a tender texture for the beef; don’t skip this!
Baking Soda – Optional addition to marinade that helps tenderize tougher cuts for improved juiciness.

For the Sauce

Chicken Stock (or Beef Stock) – Adds depth to the sauce; low-sodium varieties are healthier.
Shaoxing Wine (or Dry Sherry) – Elevates the flavor profile; substituting with dry sherry works well.
Dark Soy Sauce – Imparts color and a richer taste; can be swapped with regular soy sauce for a lighter color.
Brown Sugar (or White Sugar) – Balances savory and sweet; adjust to taste depending on your sweetness preference.

For the Stir-Fry

Broccoli – The star veggie for crunch and freshness; feel free to mix in other vegetables like snap peas or carrots.
Garlic and Ginger – Essential aromatics that enhance the dish; adjust amounts for stronger flavor as you desire.

Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, let’s get cooking! Your kitchen will soon be filled with the delightful scent of homemade Chinese Beef and Broccoli that’s sure to invigorate your taste buds and nourish your body.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare Beef
Begin by slicing your flank or skirt steak against the grain into ¼ inch thick pieces. In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, peanut oil, and cornstarch; mix well to coat. Let the beef marinate for 10 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, brown sugar, and a teaspoon of cornstarch. This mixture will serve as the savory sauce for your Chinese Beef and Broccoli. Set it aside so it’s ready to enhance the dish when you combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Steam Broccoli
In a large skillet, bring about an inch of water to a boil. Once boiling, place the broccoli florets in a steaming basket over the boiling water and cover. Steam the broccoli for 1 minute until bright green and just tender, then remove it from heat and set aside to retain its vibrant color and crunchiness.

Step 4: Cook Beef
Heat a tablespoon of peanut oil in the same skillet over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking for about 30 seconds on each side until browned. Add minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, stirring them in until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Combine
Return the steamed broccoli to the skillet with the cooked beef. Pour the prepared sauce over everything and stir well to combine. Continue to cook on medium-high heat until the sauce thickens and bubbles, which should take around 1 minute, ensuring all ingredients are coated in that delightful sauce.

Step 6: Serve
Immediately transfer your delicious Chinese Beef and Broccoli onto a serving plate. For the best experience, serve it hot over fluffy rice. Enjoy this homemade take-out treat that captures all the flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant!

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Variations

Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own with these tasty options!

Vegetarian: Replace beef with tofu, using the same marinating and cooking method for a delightful plant-based alternative. It’ll soak up the sauce beautifully.
Gluten-Free: Swap out soy sauce for tamari to retain that rich umami flavor while making it suitable for gluten-free diets. Enjoy your favorite take-out without worry!
Extra Veggies: Mix in sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to enhance the dish with more colorful vegetables, adding flavor and nutrition to every bite. They provide a delightful crunch!
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for an exciting boost of heat, perfect for spice lovers looking for that extra kick.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil in place of peanut oil for a deeper, nutty flavor profile that elevates every bite of beef and broccoli.
Rice Alternatives: Serve it over cauliflower rice or quinoa instead of traditional rice for a low-carb version that complements the flavors beautifully while adding a nutritional punch.
Citrus Zest: For a bright and refreshing twist, add a squeeze of fresh lime or a touch of orange juice to the dish just before serving, enhancing the overall taste experience.

With these enticing alternatives, you can cater to your family’s preferences or dietary needs while ensuring a delicious and memorable meal. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my recipes for Mongolian Ground Beef and Stovetop Ground Beef for even more comforting home-cooked options!

Tips for the Best Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Prep Ahead: Ensure all ingredients are chopped and ready before starting, as this dish cooks quickly and needs your full attention to achieve the best results.
Cut Against the Grain: Always slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness—this simple trick transforms tougher cuts into juicy bites, enhancing your Chinese Beef and Broccoli experience.
Use High Heat: Cook the beef over high heat to sear it properly for that restaurant-quality flavor. A hot skillet ensures that the beef browns beautifully, sealing in the juices.
Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Steam the broccoli just until tender; you want it bright green and crunchy, providing a fresh contrast to the beef and sauce.
Sauce Adjustments: Taste the sauce before adding it to the stir-fry. Feel free to tweak the sweetness or saltiness—your preference will determine how delightful the final flavor is!
Experiment with Veggies: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to your Chinese Beef and Broccoli for added color and nutritional benefits—get creative with your stir-fry!

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Beef and Broccoli are perfect for busy cooks seeking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen for a more delicious outcome. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, keeping all those savory elements ready at your fingertips. To maintain the broccoli’s vibrant color and crunch, steam it just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy this homemade take-out, simply cook the prepped beef until browned, then add the broccoli and sauce, stirring until thickened for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Authentic Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Enhance your homemade dining experience with these delightful side dishes that compliment the savory, tender flavors of beef and broccoli.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, it perfectly balances the flavorful sauce, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Egg Fried Rice: Rich and slightly smoky, this rice option adds a fun twist, absorbing the savory sauce beautifully.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of this umami-packed soup adds depth to your meal, creating a comforting harmony with the beef.
Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts with a sweet and spicy kick complement the savory notes of the beef, providing a fresh crunch.
Tea for Two: A soothing jasmine tea pairs beautifully with this dish, helping cleanse the palate between bites while enhancing the overall experience.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed with a light sesame dressing, these noodles offer a delightful contrast to your dish and can soak up any leftover sauce.

These pairing ideas invite you to create a complete restaurant-like experience in your home, enriching every dinner with joy and flavor!

Storage Tips for Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Place in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Keep Fresh: When stored properly, your Chinese Beef and Broccoli will keep its flavors intact, allowing you to enjoy this homemade meal even days later!

Chinese Beef and Broccoli Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for bright green florets without dark spots or yellowing, as these indicate freshness. The stems should be firm and not wilted. Aim to buy them from a local market or grocery store that offers produce with solid color, which ensures peak flavor and crunchiness for your dish.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
You can store your Chinese Beef and Broccoli leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing it up—this helps prevent condensation and sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Can I freeze Chinese Beef and Broccoli?
Very! To freeze, divide the cooled dish into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as you normally would.

What should I do if my beef isn’t tender?
If you find that your beef isn’t tender, consider slicing it thinner against the grain. This technique breaks down the muscle fibers, making it more tender. Additionally, marinating for longer, or using cuts like flank or skirt steak, follow the same steps with baking soda will help improve tenderness. If you’re using a tougher cut, marinating with baking soda for at least 15 minutes can really enhance the juiciness!

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To adapt this Chinese Beef and Broccoli recipe for gluten-free diets, simply swap out the soy sauce for tamari—it’s just as flavorful! Always check labels to ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free as some stocks and sauces may vary. Enjoy your homemade take-out without any fuss!

Is it safe for my pets?
No, this dish is not suitable for pets. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you’re considering sharing your cooking with your furry friends, it’s best to stick with plain, cooked meats and vegetables that are safe for them.