If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef is the perfect choice. The slow cooking process ensures that the beef is tender and infused with a rich, savory sauce, while the fresh broccoli adds a burst of color and nutrients. This dish is ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal when you want something satisfying with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- Flank steak, thinly sliced: 1 ½ pounds
- Provides tender, flavorful beef that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Beef broth: 1 cup
- Adds depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Low sodium soy sauce: ⅔ cup
- Contributes a salty, umami flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- Brown sugar: ⅓ cup
- Balances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the beef and sauce.
- Minced garlic: 1 tablespoon
- Infuses the dish with a savory, aromatic quality.
- Red chili flakes (optional): ¼ teaspoon
- Adds a subtle heat to the dish, perfect for those who like a little spice.
- Broccoli florets: 4 cups
- Provides a healthy, crunchy contrast to the tender beef and rich sauce.
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
- Used to thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious texture.
- Cold water: 4 tablespoons
- Combined with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening the sauce.
Directions:
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Grease the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking. Add the thinly sliced flank steak, beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red chili flakes (if using). Stir to combine. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours. This slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender while soaking up the flavors of the sauce.
2. Thicken the Sauce:
About 20-25 minutes before serving, uncover the slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir well. Cover again and let it cook until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
While the sauce is thickening, prepare the broccoli. Place the broccoli florets in a large microwave-safe container. Add about ½ inch of water to the bottom of the container and place the lid on in an offset manner to allow venting. Microwave on high for about 3 minutes, until the broccoli is just tender but still bright green. Drain the broccoli well.
4. Serve:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir the cooked broccoli into the slow cooker, mixing until it’s evenly coated in the sauce. Serve the Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef hot, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef:
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a dash of Sriracha to the sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even your favorite noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef is a delightful combination of tender beef and fresh broccoli in a savory, flavorful sauce. It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, and the ease of preparation makes it perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re serving it over rice or noodles, this recipe is a surefire way to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort.