Description
This easy, hands-off recipe brings the flavors of your favorite takeout dish right to your kitchen! Tender strips of beef are slow-cooked in a savory-sweet sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of brown sugar, then combined with fresh broccoli during the last hour for a crisp-tender finish. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. A crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and effortless!
Ingredients
- 1 pound of beef (flank steak or sirloin)
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon of minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
- 1/4 cup of beef broth
Instructions
Begin by preparing your beef. Choose a cut like flank or sirloin for the best results. Slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Next, chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets. This not only makes them easier to eat but also allows for even cooking. Finally, gather your garlic and ginger. These aromatics will infuse the dish with delightful flavor.
In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk the ingredients until they are well combined. This marinade serves as the heart of your dish, providing rich flavors that will permeate the beef as it cooks. Consider tasting the marinade; it should be a balance of salty and sweet, making your taste buds dance with anticipation.
Place the sliced beef in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour your delicious marinade over the beef, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, making every bite succulent.
After marinating, it’s time to transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Pour in any remaining marinade and add a splash of beef broth for extra moisture. The slow cooking process will create a luscious sauce that binds the dish together. Every element in the cooker begins to merge, resulting in a beautiful blend of flavors as it simmers.
Set the slow cooker to low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. As it cooks, your kitchen will start to fill with mouthwatering aromas that are simply irresistible. The beef will become tender and juicy, while the flavors will meld beautifully. This is where the magic happens, and patience will be rewarded with every delicious bite!
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, it’s time to add your broccoli. This vibrant vegetable not only adds color but also provides a nutritious crunch. Stir the florets into the beef and sauce, making sure they’re well coated. The broccoli will steam and absorb the delightful flavors, cooking to perfection.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. Watch as the sauce transforms into a rich, glossy coating for the beef and broccoli. This step elevates the dish, making it feel even more restaurant-worthy.
Once done, it’s time to serve! Ladle the beef and broccoli over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles to soak up the wonderful sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or green onions for an extra touch of flair. Each bite is bursting with flavor, bringing a satisfying round-off to your cooking adventure.
Notes
Marinating Time Matters
To achieve maximum tenderness and flavor, don’t skip the marinating step. While 30 minutes is a minimum, longer marination can amplify the flavor. If time allows, refrigerate the beef overnight.
Choosing the Right Beef
Flank steak and sirloin are popular choices, but other cuts like ribeye or tenderloin also work well. Just be sure to slice against the grain for tenderness.
Fresh Broccoli is Key
Using fresh broccoli instead of frozen will enhance the texture of your dish. Look for bright green florets without yellowing. This will ensure you have vibrant and delicious veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low