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When the evenings start to cool and the days grow shorter, I find myself craving comforting, hearty meals that warm not just my stomach but my soul. That’s when I turn to my favorite gem: Chinese Braised Beef. Imagine a robust brisket, stewed slowly with aromatic spices, tender vegetables, and just the right hint of sweetness. The rich aroma of garlic and ginger wafts through the kitchen as it simmers, coaxing friends and family to gather around the table, their appetites ignited by the promise of a cozy feast.

One day, as I experimented with lingering ingredients in my pantry, I stumbled upon a wonderful combination that brought this dish to life: Chu Hou Paste and the distinctive kick of Doubanjiang. Even if you’re feeling uninspired by fast food, this recipe makes it simple to impress without overwhelming yourself. With just a bit of time and care, you’ll create a flavorful masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. So, let’s dive into this delightful kitchen adventure together—your taste buds will thank you!

Why is Chinese Braised Beef so irresistible?

Tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness: The slow braising process transforms the brisket into a succulent delight that just falls apart.
Aromatic harmony: The combination of garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices creates a fragrance that fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort.
Simple ingredients: With pantry staples like soy sauce and Chu Hou Paste, you can achieve incredible depth of flavor without needing complex ingredients.
Versatile meal: Add your favorite vegetables for a personal touch and turn this dish into a complete and healthy meal.
Perfect for gatherings: This dish is sure to impress guests or family, making it a go-to for dinner parties or cozy nights in.
Experience a beautiful blend of flavors with this recipe that even novices can tackle, making every bite a celebration of home-cooked goodness.

Chinese Braised Beef Ingredients

For the Beef
• 1500 g beef brisket – Choose well-marbled brisket for the ultimate tenderness and flavor.

For the Sauce
• 25 g Chu Hou Paste – This rich paste adds a deep, savory backbone that defines the dish.
• 15 g Cooking wine – Enhances the flavor profile and adds a slight sweetness.
• 10 g Doubanjiang – Adds a spicy kick and umami, elevating your Chinese Braised Beef to new heights.
• 15 g Light soy sauce – Provides essential saltiness and depth to the braising liquid.
• 15 g Oyster sauce – Adds a complex sweetness that balances the other ingredients.
• 10 g White sugar – A touch of sweetness helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• 8 g Salt – Adjust to taste as different soy sauces may vary in saltiness.
• 5 g Soy sauce – For an extra layer of salty depth.

For the Aromatics
• 1 Green Onion – Adds a fresh burst of flavor; slice it thin for even distribution.
• Small piece of ginger – Enhances warmth and spiciness, making the dish comforting.
• A few cloves of garlic – Infuses the beef with aromatic layers of flavor.

For the Veggies
• Not specified white radish – Sweet and crunchy; it soaks up the flavors beautifully during braising.
• Optional vegetables – Feel free to toss in your favorite choices like cabbage or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

How to Make Chinese Braised Beef

Prepare the Beef: Wash and cut the beef brisket into large pieces, about 4-5 cm each. This will help it cook evenly and absorb all the delightful flavors as it braises.
Chop Aromatics: Finely slice the green onion, ginger, and garlic. Their vibrant aromas will uplift your cooking experience as they infuse into the dish.
Cut the Radish: Wash, peel, and chop the white radish into large square pieces. The radish will add a crunchy texture and sweet freshness to the final dish.
Blanch the Meat: Blanch the beef pieces, ginger, and green onion in boiling water for about 2 minutes. This step cleans the meat and enhances its flavor, so don’t skip it!
Stir-fry the Paste: In a pot, heat a little oil over low heat. Add the doubanjiang and stir-fry for 10 seconds before adding Chu Hou Paste. This creates a base full of rich flavor.
Boil the Mixture: Fill the pot with water and bring it to a boil. The bubbling broth will get everything ready for the delicious simmering.
Combine Ingredients: Once boiling, add the blanched beef, cooking wine, light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and salt. Stir to mix evenly, letting those flavors mingle beautifully.
Transfer to a New Pot: After boiling for a few minutes, carefully transfer the mix to a new pot, ready for that long, loving simmer.
Sauté Aromatics: In the new pot, add a good amount of oil, then briefly stir-fry the ginger, green onion, and garlic until fragrant.
Bring to a Boil Again: Pour the sautéed aromatics into the beef mixture, stir well, and bring it back to a boil over high heat. This kickstarts the flavor layering.
Simmer Gently: Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for two hours with the lid slightly cracked open. This slow cooking is what makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Add Radish: In the final 20 minutes, toss in the radish and continue to simmer. Let the radish soak in those savory flavors for extra deliciousness!
Optional Veggies: Optional: Add your favorite vegetables such as cabbage or spinach for an extra touch of color and nutrition.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Braised Beef

Fridge: Store leftover Chinese Braised Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool before sealing to help retain moisture.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Make sure to portion it in freezer-safe bags or containers to save space and for easy reheating.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and flavor.

Flavor Enhancement: Consider freezing the braising liquid separately for added flavor when reheating, ensuring the taste remains rich and delicious.

What to Serve with Chinese Braised Beef?

Complete your comforting meal with these delightful pairings that enhance the richness of the braised beef.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy texture absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience.
Sautéed Bok Choy: This leafy green adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the brisket. Toss with garlic for extra flavor!
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they create a wonderful contrast to the tender beef while soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Pickled Vegetables: A tangy crunch provides a refreshing bite, cutting through the richness of the brisket and adding a delightful zing.
Wonton Soup: This warm, soothing dish makes a perfect starter, its delicate broth setting the stage for the hearty main course.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad brings a nice coolness to the table, enhancing the overall balance of flavors in your meal.
Chinese Egg Noodles: Stir-fried or tossed in a simple soy sauce, these noodles make a great carb complement to savor with your braised beef.
Chrysanthemum Tea: A floral, subtly sweet drink that enhances the meal, this tea adds a calming, aromatic element to your dining experience.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat brings a delightful end to the meal, its creamy coconut flavor pairing beautifully with the savory brisket.

Tips for the Best Chinese Braised Beef

Choose the Right Cut: Opt for well-marbled beef brisket to achieve maximum tenderness and rich flavor during the long cooking process.

Don’t Rush the Simmer: The beauty of Chinese Braised Beef lies in a slow cook; rushing can result in tough meat. Enjoy the low heat for a couple of hours!

Flavor Boosting: Adding the aromatics directly when sautéing elevates the dish; never skip the garlic and ginger for that comforting aroma.

Perfect Veggie Timing: Add radish in the last 20 minutes to maintain its crunch and soak up the robust flavors without becoming mushy.

Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning during cooking, especially salt. Different soy sauces vary in saltiness, so taste to ensure perfection!

Chinese Braised Beef Variations

Feel free to let your creativity run wild with these delightful variations that will elevate your Chinese Braised Beef experience!

Vegetarian: Swap brisket for firm tofu. Cut into cubes and marinate, letting it soak up the savory flavors beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add fresh chili peppers or a splash of chili oil to amp up the heat, creating a bold contrast against the dish’s rich sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Toss in a few sprigs of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil during the last 10 minutes of simmering for a fragrant finish that brightens each bite.
Citrusy Twist: Add a bit of orange or lemon zest to the braising liquid. This will balance the savory notes with a refreshing citrus sparkle.
Root Veggie Medley: Mix in diced carrots or parsnips while simmering for a lovely sweetness and added nutrition, turning your dish into a hearty feast.
Noodle Delight: Serve the braised beef over a bed of egg noodles or rice noodles for a comforting, filling dish that warms everyone’s hearts.
Sweet Soy Glaze: Finish the dish with a drizzle of teriyaki sauce just before serving for an additional layer of sweetness and complexity on top.
Umami Boost: Mix in a dash of fish sauce or miso for an intense umami flavor that enhances the depth of your braising sauce.

These variations are sure to excite your taste buds and keep the family reaching for seconds!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Chinese Braised Beef flavors are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the brisket and prepare the aromatics up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can mix the sauces and spices ahead of time, ensuring all the ingredients are ready to go. When you’re ready to cook, simply blanch the beef and proceed with the recipe as directed. This time-saving method guarantees that your dish will be just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy tender, succulent beef with minimal effort on busy evenings!

Chinese Braised Beef Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Chinese Braised Beef?
Choosing a well-marbled brisket is key! The fat within the brisket melts during cooking, enriching the dish’s flavor and ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Look for a brisket with a good balance of meat and fat, ideally around 1.5 to 2 inches thick.

How should I store leftover Chinese Braised Beef?
Absolutely! Store any leftover Chinese Braised Beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to lock in moisture. Reheating is simple—just warm on the stove with a splash of water to keep it juicy.

Can I freeze Chinese Braised Beef?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the beef into freezer-safe bags or containers and store it for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before packing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

How can I ensure my braised beef doesn’t turn out tough?
To avoid tough meat, the secret lies in patience! Allow the beef to simmer on low heat for at least two hours. This slow cooking breaks down the connective tissues, making the beef tender. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should be fork-tender when finished.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! To adapt the recipe for gluten-free diets, substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free version, and ensure that the sauces used, like oyster sauce, are also gluten-free. This way, you won’t miss out on the rich flavors of this fantastic dish!