SLOW COOKER BEEF AND BROCCOLI

SLOW COOKER BEEF AND BROCCOLI

Introduction:
Savor the delightful flavors of Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli, a dish that brings the taste of your favorite takeout right to your home! This recipe features tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal that’s both hearty and healthy. Simply throw the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let the magic happen!

Inspiration Behind the Recipe:
Beef and broccoli is a classic Asian-inspired dish known for its satisfying combination of flavors and textures. The convenience of the slow cooker allows you to create this beloved recipe effortlessly while enhancing the flavors as they meld together over time.

Ingredients Breakdown:

  • For the Beef and Broccoli:
    • 1.5 pounds flank steak (sliced thinly against the grain)
    • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
    • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for browning the beef, optional)
  • For the Sauce:
    • 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
    • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
    • 1/4 cup beef broth (or water)
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
    • 1 teaspoon ginger (grated or minced)
    • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Step-by-Step Recipe:

  1. Prepare the Beef:
    • Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. This helps to ensure tender bites of beef.
  2. Optional Browning:
    • For extra flavor, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and sear for about 2-3 minutes until browned. This step is optional but recommended.
  3. Combine Sauce Ingredients:
    • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, cornstarch, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
  4. Add to Slow Cooker:
    • Place the sliced beef in the slow cooker, and pour the sauce mixture over the beef. Stir to ensure the beef is well coated in the sauce.
  5. Cook on Low:
    • Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.
  6. Add Broccoli:
    • About 30 minutes before serving, add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker, stirring to combine. Cover and continue to cook until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
  7. Serve:
    • Once cooked, serve the beef and broccoli over steamed rice or noodles. Drizzle with additional sauce if desired and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli:

  1. Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking and losing its vibrant color and crunch.
  3. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker about 15 minutes before serving.

Variations and Customizations:

  1. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
  2. Make it Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chilies for a spicy kick.
  3. Switch Up the Protein: Substitute the beef with chicken or tofu for a different twist on this dish.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:

  • Balanced Meal: This dish is a balanced meal containing protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates when served with rice or noodles.
  • Portion Control: Enjoy in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.

FAQ:

  1. Can I use frozen beef?
    Yes, but make sure it is fully thawed and sliced thinly before adding it to the slow cooker for even cooking.
  2. How long can I store leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and cook them in the slow cooker the next day.
SLOW COOKER BEEF AND BROCCOLI

SLOW COOKER BEEF AND BROCCOLI

Enjoy the effortless flavors of Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli, featuring tender beef and vibrant broccoli in a savory sauce. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to please the whole family!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ pounds beef chuck roast boneless, sliced into thin strips
  • 1 cup beef consomme or beef broth
  • ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 cups frozen broccoli florets about 14 oz bag

Instructions
 

Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef consomme (or broth), soy sauce, dark brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic.

Cook the Beef:

  • Place the beef strips in the crockpot and pour the sauce over them, tossing to coat the beef evenly.
  • Turn the crockpot on low and cook for about 5-6 hours. Be careful not to overcook the beef, as it can start to shred.

Thicken the Sauce:

  • About an hour before the beef is done, take ¼ cup of the sauce and whisk it together with the cornstarch in a small bowl.
  • Slowly stir this cornstarch mixture back into the crockpot to help thicken the sauce.

Add the Broccoli:

  • Add the frozen broccoli florets to the crockpot in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let the broccoli cook through, but be mindful not to add it too early to avoid mushy texture.

Serve:

  • Once everything is cooked, serve the beef and broccoli over white rice. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Rice: You can serve this dish over steamed white rice, brown rice, or even noodles for a complete meal.
  • Beef: You can substitute beef chuck with another cut, but make sure it’s a tender cut suitable for slow cooking.
Keyword SLOW COOKER BEEF AND BROCCOLI
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