Beef and Broccoli is a classic dish that brings together tender slices of beef and vibrant green broccoli in a savory sauce. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a popular choice for both dinner at home and takeout. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Beef and Broccoli at home is a great option for several reasons. First, you can control the ingredients and make it healthier by using low-sodium soy sauce and fresh vegetables. Secondly, it’s budget-friendly, especially when using less expensive cuts of beef. Lastly, this dish is versatile; you can serve it with rice and customize it to your taste preferences.
How to Make Beef and Broccoli
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pound beef chuck roast boneless, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup beef consomme or beef broth
- 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tbsp. sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Frozen Broccoli Florets (about 3 cups)
- White or brown rice, cooked
Directions:
- In a slow cooker, combine the beef strips, beef consomme (or broth), soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
- Stir well to coat the beef in the sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen broccoli florets and cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken the sauce.
- Serve over cooked rice.
How to Serve Beef and Broccoli
To serve Beef and Broccoli, scoop the beef and broccoli mixture over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. You can also garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for an extra touch. It pairs well with a side of egg rolls or a simple salad.
How to Store Beef and Broccoli
If you have leftovers, store the Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot.
Tips to Make Beef and Broccoli
- For more flavor, marinate the beef for an hour before cooking.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar, depending on your preference.
- Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for better tenderness.
Variation
You can try a vegetarian version of this dish by swapping the beef with tofu or seitan. Use vegetable broth in place of beef consomme and add your favorite veggies to keep it colorful and tasty.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes before adding it to the slow cooker so that it cooks evenly.
2. How can I thicken the sauce more?
If you want a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch or let it cook uncovered for a while toward the end to let some liquid evaporate.
3. What should I serve with Beef and Broccoli?
Beef and Broccoli is best served over rice, but it also goes well with noodles or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
