Description
Craving a savory, Asian-inspired dish that’s better than takeout and incredibly easy to make? Look no further than Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli! This delicious recipe features tender, thinly sliced beef flank steak coated in a rich, umami-packed sauce, paired with vibrant broccoli florets, all effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker
Ingredients
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Beef Flank Steak (1.5 lbs, thinly sliced): Lean and flavorful, perfect for slow cooking.
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Substitution: Sirloin, chuck roast, or tofu for a vegetarian option (adjust cooking time for tofu).
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Broccoli Florets (4 cups): Adds vibrant color and crunch.
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Substitution: Cauliflower florets, green beans, or snap peas.
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Soy Sauce (½ cup): Provides salty, umami depth.
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Substitution: Tamari (gluten-free), coconut aminos, or low-sodium soy sauce.
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Brown Sugar (¼ cup): Adds sweetness to balance the savory sauce.
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Substitution: Honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.
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Beef Broth (¼ cup): Enhances the meaty flavor and thins the sauce.
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Substitution: Vegetable broth or water with a bouillon cube.
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Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
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Substitution: ¾ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
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Ginger (1 tsp, grated): Adds zesty, spicy depth.
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Substitution: ½ tsp ground ginger or 1 tbsp minced fresh galangal.
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Cornstarch (1 tbsp, optional): Thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.
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Substitution: Arrowroot powder or omit for a thinner sauce.
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Cooked Rice (for serving): Soaks up the flavorful sauce.
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Substitution: Jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, or noodles.
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Sesame Seeds (for garnish): Adds nutty crunch and visual appeal.
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Substitution: Chopped green onions, crushed peanuts, or no garnish.
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Sauce
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In the slow cooker, add 1.5 lbs thinly sliced beef flank steak, ½ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup beef broth, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated ginger.
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Stir gently to coat the beef evenly with the sauce ingredients.
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Tip: Slice beef against the grain into thin strips (about ¼-inch thick) for tenderness, and freeze for 15-20 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut.
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Step 2: Cook the Beef
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Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender and cooked through.
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Check at the lower end of the time range to avoid overcooking; the beef should be soft but not falling apart.
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Tip: Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even flavor distribution, but avoid lifting the lid too often.
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Step 3: Add Broccoli and Thicken (Optional)
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In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add 4 cups broccoli florets to the slow cooker, stirring gently to coat with the sauce.
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If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to form a slurry, stir into the slow cooker, and cook on high for the remaining time.
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Tip: Add broccoli only at the end to keep it crisp-tender and bright green. If you prefer softer broccoli, add it 45 minutes before the end.
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Step 4: Serve
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Stir the mixture to blend the flavors and check the sauce consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce or brown sugar if needed.
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Serve hot over cooked rice, ensuring a mix of beef, broccoli, and sauce in each portion.
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Garnish with sesame seeds for a nutty, elegant finish.
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Tip: For extra flair, sprinkle with chopped green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.
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