Chinese Beef and Broccoli

Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade:

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

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

• ½ teaspoon baking soda (optional — helps tenderize the meat)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for flavor)

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• ¼ cup beef broth or water

• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or Chinese black vinegar (optional for balance)

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic

• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (optional but recommended)

Other:

• 3 cups broccoli florets

• 2 tablespoons vegetable or peanut oil

• Cooked rice, for serving

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef:

• In a bowl, toss beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and baking soda.

• Let it sit for 15–20 minutes while you prep the rest.

2. Make the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients: soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin (if using), sugar, cornstarch, broth, garlic, ginger, and vinegar. Set aside.

3. Blanch or Steam Broccoli:

• Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli and cook for 1–2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and rinse with cold water, or steam instead. Set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Beef:

• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.

• Add beef in a single layer. Sear quickly, about 1–2 minutes per side, until browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

5. Combine and Cook:

• Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a simmer until slightly thickened (about 1–2 minutes).

• Return beef and broccoli to the pan. Toss everything together until heated through and well-coated in sauce.

6. Serve:

• Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.

✅ Tips:

• Cut beef thinly and against the grain for maximum tenderness.

• You can swap broccoli for broccolini or mixed stir-fry vegetables.

• For spice, add a dash of chili oil or crushed red pepper to the sauce.