Chinese Broccoli With Beef Recipe

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Introduction

Chinese broccoli with beef is a classic Cantonese stir-fry appreciated worldwide for its savory flavors and nutritious ingredients. Also known as gai lan with beef, this dish features tender beef slices and slightly bitter Chinese broccoli (gai lan) in a flavorful sauce. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a popular choice in restaurants and homes, easily adaptable for a quick weeknight meal or a more elaborate dinner.

Ingredients

The key ingredients for Chinese broccoli with beef are:

• Beef: 1 pound, thinly sliced against the grain (flank steak, sirloin, or skirt steak work well)
• Chinese Broccoli (Gai Lan): 1 bunch, about 1 pound, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons (light soy sauce recommended)
• Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Shaoxing Wine (or dry sherry): 1 tablespoon
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon, minced
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon
• White Pepper: A pinch

Possible Substitutions:

• If gai lan is unavailable, broccolini or regular broccoli can be used, although the flavor will be slightly different.
• Tamari can substitute for soy sauce.
• Chicken or pork can be substituted for beef.

Preparation Steps

Preparation is crucial for achieving optimal flavor and texture.

• Beef Preparation: In a bowl, marinate the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry), 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and a pinch of white pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator. This tenderizes the beef and infuses it with flavor.
• Chinese Broccoli Preparation: Wash the gai lan thoroughly. Trim the ends of the stalks and separate the thicker stems from the leaves. Slice the stems into bite-sized pieces at an angle for faster cooking. This ensures even cooking.
• Sauce Preparation: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved. Having the sauce ready in advance streamlines the cooking process.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked Chinese broccoli with beef:

1. Blanch the Chinese Broccoli: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the gai lan stems first and cook for 1 minute, then add the leaves and cook for another 30 seconds until bright green and slightly tender. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures the gai lan is tender-crisp.
2. Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry quickly until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside. Do not overcrowd the wok; cook the beef in batches if necessary.
3. Saut Aromatics: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for about 15 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Combine and Finish: Add the blanched gai lan to the wok and stir-fry for about 1 minute. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir to coat the gai lan evenly. Add the cooked beef back to the wok and stir-fry for another minute until everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Recommended Cooking Times and Temperatures:

• Beef: High heat, 2-3 minutes.
• Chinese Broccoli (Blanching): Boiling water, stems 1 minute, leaves 30 seconds.
• Overall Stir-Fry Time: 5-7 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese broccoli with beef is best served hot and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Serve over steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Pair with other Chinese dishes like spring rolls or dumplings.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve alongside a clear broth or hot and sour soup.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Here are some tips to enhance the flavor and avoid common pitfalls:

• Tip: Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Tip: Marinating the beef is essential for both flavor and texture.
• Tip: Dont overcook the gai lan; it should be tender-crisp.
• Common Mistake: Overcrowding the wok can lower the temperature and result in steamed rather than stir-fried ingredients. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Common Mistake: Burning the garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish. Watch it closely and adjust the heat as needed.
• Common Mistake: Using low-quality oyster sauce can affect the overall flavor. Choose a reputable brand.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering the chinese broccoli with beef recipe unlocks a delightful combination of flavors and textures, representing a cultural cornerstone and offering a practical, adaptable dish for any occasion. Its savory beef and slightly bitter gai lan create a satisfying meal that can be tailored to individual preferences. Embrace the joy of cooking, experiment with variations, and share this classic dish with friends and family. Discover even more culinary adventures and expand repertoire by visiting foodrecipestory.com for more exciting cooking guides.