Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli

Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli is a medium Chinese-American recipe that serves 2. 740 calories per serving. Recipe by Made With Lau on YouTube.

Prep: 56 min | Cook: 13 min | Total: 1 hr 24 min

Cost: $7.91 total, $3.95 per serving

Ingredients

  • 12 oz Flank Steak (trimmed, sliced against the grain into 1/2‑inch strips)
  • 1 lb Broccoli (cut into bite‑size florets)
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda (helps tenderize the beef)
  • 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce (divided between marinade and sauce)
  • 1 tbsp Light Soy Sauce (for marinade)
  • 1 tsp Dark Soy Sauce (adds color to the sauce)
  • 2 tbsp Cooking Wine (Shaoxing wine or dry sherry)
  • 2 tsp Sugar (balances the sauce)
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch (for slurry in marinade and sauce)
  • 0.5 tsp White Pepper (divided between marinade and sauce)
  • 4 tbsp Water (for marinades and sauce; plus extra 1 tbsp during stir‑fry)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 inch Ginger (sliced into angled pieces)
  • 2 Scallions (cut on the diagonal into 2‑inch pieces)
  • 1 Carrot (peeled and sliced thinly (optional))
  • 1 tsp Sesame Oil (adds nutty finish)
  • 5 tbsp Vegetable Oil (high‑smoke‑point oil for wok cooking; includes finishing oil)

Instructions

  1. Slice the Beef

    Trim the flank steak and slice it against the grain into 1/2‑inch wide strips; this keeps the meat tender.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Rinse and Drain Beef

    Rinse the sliced beef under cold water to remove surface blood, then drain in a colander and pat lightly with paper towels.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Prepare Marinade

    In a bowl combine 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 2 tbsp water, 1 tbsp cornstarch, 1/4 tsp white pepper, 1 tsp sugar, and 1 tbsp cooking wine. Mix until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Marinate Beef

    Add the drained beef to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

    Time: PT30M

  5. Cut Broccoli

    Separate the broccoli into bite‑size florets; set aside.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Prepare Aromatics & Carrot

    Slice ginger into angled pieces, mince garlic, cut scallions on the diagonal, and slice the carrot thinly.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Make the Stir‑Fry Sauce

    In a small bowl whisk together 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp dark soy sauce, 1 tbsp water, 1 tbsp cooking wine, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp cornstarch, and 1/4 tsp white pepper.

    Time: PT3M

  8. Blanch Broccoli

    Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, add a splash of oil and a pinch of salt, then add the broccoli. Cook 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp‑tender. Drain and set aside (optional shock in cold water).

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: boiling

  9. Heat Wok and Sear Beef

    Heat the wok over highest heat for about 1 minute until it starts to smoke. Add 2 tbsp vegetable oil, swirl, then add the marinated beef. Cook 30–60 seconds on one side, then flip and cook another 60–90 seconds until mostly browned but still slightly pink inside.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: very hot

  10. Set Beef Aside

    Remove the beef from the wok onto a plate and keep warm.

    Time: PT1M

  11. Stir‑Fry Aromatics

    Add another 1 tbsp oil to the wok. Toss in garlic and ginger; stir‑fry 20–30 seconds until fragrant. Add scallions and carrot slices; stir‑fry another 20–30 seconds.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: high

  12. Add Broccoli

    Return the blanched broccoli to the wok and stir‑fry 30–45 seconds, allowing it to absorb some oil.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: high

  13. Combine Beef and Sauce

    Add the cooked beef back to the wok, pour in the prepared sauce, and drizzle 1 tbsp water to help the sauce coat the broccoli. Stir‑fry 30–45 seconds until everything is glossy.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: high

  14. Finish with Sesame and Finishing Oil

    Stir in 1 tsp sesame oil and an additional drizzle of vegetable oil (mei jau). Cook another minute, then remove from heat.

    Time: PT1M

  15. Plate and Serve

    Transfer the stir‑fried beef and broccoli to a serving plate. Serve hot with steamed rice.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
740
Protein
45 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
45 g
Fiber
6 g

Dietary info: Dairy‑free, Nut‑free

Allergens: Soy, Shellfish, Wheat

Last updated: April 11, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli

Recipe by Made With Lau

A classic Chinese-American stir‑fry featuring tender flank steak, crisp broccoli, and a savory oyster‑soy sauce. The recipe uses a baking‑soda tenderizing trick and quick‑high‑heat wok cooking for restaurant‑style results at home.

MediumChinese-AmericanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
49m
Prep
21m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 20m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$7.91
Total cost
$3.95
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Cut the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
  • Use baking soda in the marinade to break down muscle fibers.
  • Blanch broccoli with oil and salt to keep it bright green and crisp.
  • Wok must be smoking hot before adding oil and beef for a proper sear.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter; keep face away and use a splatter guard if needed.
  • Ensure raw beef is handled with clean utensils and washed hands.
  • Wok will be extremely hot; use oven mitts or a thick towel when handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Beef with Broccoli in Chinese-American cuisine?

A

Beef with broccoli originated among Chinese immigrants in the early 20th century who substituted Western broccoli for traditional Chinese broccoli (gai lan) when the latter was unavailable in the United States. The dish became a staple of Chinese-American restaurant menus and symbolizes the adaptation of Chinese cooking techniques to American ingredients.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Beef with Broccoli in Chinese cuisine?

A

In Cantonese cooking the classic version uses gai lan (Chinese broccoli) and often includes oyster sauce only. In northern Chinese stir‑fries, dark soy sauce is added for deeper color. Some regional recipes add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture.

cultural
Q

How is Beef with Broccoli traditionally served in Chinese-American restaurants?

A

It is usually served hot, plated over a bed of steamed white rice, sometimes with a side of fried rice or noodles. The dish is presented glossy, with the beef still slightly pink inside, and a garnish of sliced scallions.

cultural
Q

During what occasions is Beef with Broccoli commonly prepared in Chinese-American families?

A

Beef with broccoli is a go‑to weeknight dinner because it cooks quickly, but it also appears at family gatherings, birthday celebrations, and Chinese New Year feasts as a protein‑rich, crowd‑pleasing dish.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Beef with Broccoli and what are acceptable substitutes?

A

Key ingredients are flank steak, fresh broccoli, oyster sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing cooking wine, and a touch of baking soda for tenderness. Substitutes include sirloin steak for beef, gai lan for broccoli, tamari for soy sauce, and dry sherry for cooking wine.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Beef with Broccoli at home?

A

Common errors include slicing the beef with the grain, over‑cooking the beef (it should stay slightly pink), over‑blanching the broccoli, and adding the sauce too early which can make the vegetables soggy. Follow the high‑heat, quick‑stir‑fry method for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this Beef with Broccoli recipe use baking soda in the marinade instead of a traditional acid‑based tenderizer?

A

Baking soda raises the pH of the meat, weakening protein bonds and making the fibers more porous, which allows the sauce to penetrate and keeps the beef tender during the brief high‑heat stir‑fry. Acidic marinades can actually toughen beef if left too long.

technical
Q

Can I make Beef with Broccoli ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Marinate the beef up to 4 hours ahead, keep the broccoli blanched and chilled, and store the sauce separately. Combine and re‑heat in a hot wok for 2–3 minutes before serving.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Beef with Broccoli is done?

A

The beef should be browned on the outside but still slightly pink inside, and the broccoli should be bright green and crisp‑tender. The sauce should coat the ingredients with a glossy sheen without pooling.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Made With Lau specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Made With Lau focuses on approachable Asian home‑cooking tutorials, especially Chinese and Southeast Asian dishes, with clear step‑by‑step explanations and cultural background stories.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Made With Lau's approach to Chinese cooking differ from other Chinese cooking channels?

A

Made With Lau emphasizes practical home‑cook techniques, such as using common grocery‑store ingredients and explaining why each step matters, while many other channels focus on restaurant‑style precision or advanced culinary terminology.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Stir-fried Rice Noodles with Beef and Broccoli Stems
6

Stir-fried Rice Noodles with Beef and Broccoli Stems

Wide rice noodles stir-fried with marinated beef, crunchy broccoli stems, carrots, onion, garlic and ginger, all coated in a fragrant soy/oyster sauce and a drizzle of sesame oil. A complete, quick and tasty Asian dish for 4 people.

1 hr 13 minServes 4$10
Asian
Stir-fried Chinese broccoli with beef
9

Stir-fried Chinese broccoli with beef

A quick and flavorful stir-fry of Chinese broccoli (gai lan) with tender beef, seasoned with light and dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, ginger, garlic and a touch of sesame oil. Perfect with fragrant rice or noodles.

1 hr 8 minServes 4$15
Chinese
Stir-Fried Rice Noodles with Beef
20

Stir-Fried Rice Noodles with Beef

A classic Chinese restaurant dish revisited at home: wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender beef, onions, bean sprouts and a flavorful soy‑egg sauce, highlighted with a drizzle of sesame oil.

35 minServes 3$14
Chinese
Beef and Broccoli Stir‑Fry
60

Beef and Broccoli Stir‑Fry

A quick Chinese‑American beef and broccoli stir‑fry that uses a short marination with baking soda for ultra‑tender meat, a simple oyster‑soy sauce, and crisp‑tender broccolini. Perfect for a weeknight dinner served over rice or noodles.

55 minServes 4$8
Chinese‑American
How To Make Beef and Broccoli Recipe with Stir Fry Sauce
38

How To Make Beef and Broccoli Recipe with Stir Fry Sauce

A quick, protein‑packed beef and broccoli stir‑fry perfect for busy back‑to‑school nights. Thinly sliced flank steak, crisp broccoli, and a sweet‑salty sauce come together in under 30 minutes and pair beautifully with steamed white rice.

1 hr 10 minServes 4$13
Chinese‑American
EASY STIR-FRIED BROCCOLI WITH BEEF RECIPE
7

EASY STIR-FRIED BROCCOLI WITH BEEF RECIPE

A quick and flavorful Chinese‑style beef and broccoli stir‑fry. Tender slices of beef are marinated with soy sauce, cornstarch and a touch of baking soda, then quickly cooked with blanched broccoli and mushrooms. Finished with a splash of light soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

37 minServes 3$9
Chinese