When you think about slow cooker beef and broccoli, think beyond just the main dish. This hearty meal invites delicious friends to the table. Here are some great pairings:
1. Steamed Rice: Plain steamed white or brown rice is a classic companion. It soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully.
2. Noodles: Whether you prefer egg noodles, rice noodles, or udon, they can add a delightful twist and texture.
3. Spring Rolls: For a fun appetizer, serve fresh or fried spring rolls. They add crunch and contrast.
4. Asian Slaw: A crisp slaw with crunch can give your meal a refreshing kick. Think cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing.
5. Egg Drop Soup: A warm soup can lighten the meal and offer a comforting start.
Now that we’ve set the scene, let’s dive into this comforting dish.
I remember the first time I made slow cooker beef and broccoli. My kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma that danced through the house, pulling everyone in eagerly. It was one of those cozy evenings where a warm meal transformed an ordinary night into something special. This dish has since become a staple in my dinner repertoire, not just for its delightful taste but for the ease of preparation. With minimal effort, you can create something that feels like it came straight from your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Let’s explore the ins and outs of this dish, from flavor to prep, so you can leave your dinner guests impressed and craving more.
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What is Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?
Slow cooker beef and broccoli is a savory dish that brings together tender strips of beef and vibrant broccoli. The purpose of slow cooking is to meld flavors while ensuring the meat turns out succulent. The key here is low and slow; the beef chuck benefits from long, gentle heat that breaks down tough fibers, making it wonderfully tender.
An essential part of this dish lies in the sauce—a rich, delightful blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. This mixture perfectly complements the broccoli, creating a harmonious balance. If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself serving this over rice at least once a week because it’s just that good.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor journey of slow cooker beef and broccoli is exciting. It has a delightful umami taste from the soy sauce, combined with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. The garlic and ginger add sharpness and warmth, while sesame oil gives a nutty, rich finish. The broccoli brings freshness and a slight crunch to every bite.
When combined, these flavors result in a dish that’s savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic. Each bite balances tenderness with that satisfying crunch. You can’t help but go back for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This?
Why will this dish capture your heart? Well, let me count the ways:
Convenience: The slow cooker does all the work for you. Toss in ingredients and let it simmer.
Flavorful: The fusion of soy sauce, garlic, and sugar creates a flavor explosion.
Healthy Twist: Packed with broccoli, it’s not only delicious but also nutritious.
Adaptable: Feel free to switch out beef for chicken or tofu based on your preferences.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for this dish:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless beef chuck, sliced into ¼-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 cup low-sodium beef stock
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 (12-ounce) bag frozen broccoli florets (about 3 cups)
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Slice the beef chuck into ¼-inch strips. This step is crucial for tender pieces that cook evenly. Thinner slices absorb the sauce better, too! Once sliced, pat the beef dry with a paper towel. This can help create a nice sear later if desired.
Step 2: Coat the Beef
Spread the sliced beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss well. This coating will help the sauces stick to the beef as it cooks, enhancing the flavors.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, grated ginger, beef stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. This mixture forms the base of your flavor – it’s an aromatic powerhouse!
Step 4: Combine in the Slow Cooker
Pour the beef into the slow cooker. Next, pour the sauce over the beef, ensuring it’s well-covered. Gently stir to mix everything together.
Step 5: Set the Cooker
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The lower setting is best for more tender beef.
Step 6: Add the Broccoli
When the beef is close to being done, toss in the frozen broccoli florets. They take about 30 minutes to cook through. The residual heat will make them perfectly tender without turning mushy.
Step 7: Stir and Serve
Once everything is cooked, give your dish a good stir. This mixing is where the magic happens. As an optional step, you can serve it over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips & Tricks
Here are five helpful tips to ensure that your slow cooker beef and broccoli is a hit:
Cutting the Meat: Always slice against the grain for tender strips. This makes a world of difference.
Beef Alternatives: If chuck isn’t available, flank steak or sirloin can work well, too.
Fresh vs. Frozen: Using frozen broccoli saves time. If you opt for fresh, add it earlier for a softer texture.
Taste as You Go: Before serving, do a taste check. You can adjust any seasoning then—add a touch more soy for saltiness or sugar for sweetness.
Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a cornstarch slurry with a tablespoon of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a rough idea of the nutrition for one serving (based on a total of 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
How Can You Store This Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli?
Storing leftovers is simple. Just transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate. It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing. However, it’s best to consume within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re lacking any of the ingredients, don’t worry! Here are three suggestions for alternatives:
Beef: If you don’t have beef, chicken thighs are a great substitute. They remain moist when cooked slowly.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent alternative. It has a similar flavor profile and works well.
Broccoli: If broccoli isn’t available, consider using snap peas or bell peppers. They add different flavors and textures while complementing the dish.
Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless beef chuck sliced into ¼-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic about 3 cloves
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 cup low-sodium beef stock
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 12-ounce bag frozen broccoli florets (about 3 cups)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Slice the beef chuck into ¼-inch strips. This step is crucial for tender pieces that cook evenly. Thinner slices absorb the sauce better, too! Once sliced, pat the beef dry with a paper towel. This can help create a nice sear later if desired.
Step 2: Coat the Beef
- Spread the sliced beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle with cornstarch and toss well. This coating will help the sauces stick to the beef as it cooks, enhancing the flavors.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
- In another bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, grated ginger, beef stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. This mixture forms the base of your flavor – it’s an aromatic powerhouse!
Step 4: Combine in the Slow Cooker
- Pour the beef into the slow cooker. Next, pour the sauce over the beef, ensuring it’s well-covered. Gently stir to mix everything together.
Step 5: Set the Cooker
- Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for about 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The lower setting is best for more tender beef.
Step 6: Add the Broccoli
- When the beef is close to being done, toss in the frozen broccoli florets. They take about 30 minutes to cook through. The residual heat will make them perfectly tender without turning mushy.
Step 7: Stir and Serve
- Once everything is cooked, give your dish a good stir. This mixing is where the magic happens. As an optional step, you can serve it over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
Beef Alternatives: If chuck isn’t available, flank steak or sirloin can work well, too.
Fresh vs. Frozen: Using frozen broccoli saves time. If you opt for fresh, add it earlier for a softer texture.
Taste as You Go: Before serving, do a taste check. You can adjust any seasoning then—add a touch more soy for saltiness or sugar for sweetness.
Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a cornstarch slurry with a tablespoon of water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! If you prefer the stovetop, cook the beef in a pot over medium-high heat. Once browned, add the sauce and simmer until tender, about 40 minutes. The flavors will still meld beautifully.
2. What can I serve on the side?
Rice is a classic, but stir-fried vegetables also work well. Consider adding a simple salad for a fresh contrast.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, carrots, or even snap peas. They can add bright colors and nutrition.
4. How can I make it spicier?
For some heat, add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce. Adjust according to your heat preference.
5. Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prepping. Just batch it up in containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Conclusion
Slow cooker beef and broccoli is more than just dinner; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. This recipe not only caters to busy lifestyles but also guarantees satisfaction with its rich flavors. Whether it becomes your weeknight staple or a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility.
So, gather your ingredients and let your slow cooker create magic! You’ll find yourself embracing the joy of a home-cooked meal that feels vibrant, tasty, and above all, easy to prepare. Let’s make every bite count!
