Save A comforting, wholesome dish featuring tender beef and broccoli simmered in a savory sauce, served over fluffy brown rice and fresh greens for a balanced meal.
The first time I made this beef & broccoli, the aroma alone had everyone waiting by the kitchen. Slow cooking brings out so much flavor, and the combination of brown rice and greens makes it extra comforting.
Ingredients
- Beef & Marinade: 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) beef chuck or flank steak, thinly sliced, 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece fresh ginger (grated), 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Sauce: 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth (low-sodium), 2 tbsp cornstarch, 2 tbsp water
- Vegetables: 4 cups (300 g) broccoli florets, 4 cups (120 g) mixed greens (spinach, kale, or Swiss chard, washed & roughly chopped), 2 scallions (thinly sliced for garnish), 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Rice: 1 1/2 cups (285 g) brown rice, 3 cups (720 ml) water, 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef:
- In a large bowl, combine sliced beef with soy sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
- Start Slow Cooking:
- Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth and stir gently to combine.
- Cook the Beef:
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Thicken the Sauce & Add Broccoli:
- After 4 hours, whisk cornstarch and water together in a small bowl to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker. Add broccoli florets, stir gently, and cover. Continue cooking on low for an additional 45 to 60 minutes until broccoli is crisp-tender and sauce has thickened.
- Prepare the Rice:
- Meanwhile, cook the brown rice: In a medium saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork.
- Wilt the Greens:
- Just before serving, stir the mixed greens into the slow cooker and allow them to wilt for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the beef and broccoli mixture over brown rice. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Save Serving this at a family dinner is always a hit, especially since everyone can help themselves and customize with extra greens or rice. Leftovers are perfect for the next day and taste even better.
Required Tools
Slow cooker (4 qt or larger), large mixing bowl, saucepan with lid, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 485, Total Fat 13 g, Carbohydrates 56 g, Protein 36 g
Notes
For extra flavor, add chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce. Use chicken or tofu in place of beef for a lighter or vegetarian version, adjust cooking time if doing so.
Save The savory slow-cooked flavors make this dish comfort in a bowl. It's easy to adapt and sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve tender beef in this dish?
Slow cooking the thinly sliced beef in a flavorful sauce for several hours helps break down fibers, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
- → Can I substitute brown rice with other grains?
Yes, jasmine or white rice can be used for a quicker option, or even quinoa for added protein and texture.
- → What is the purpose of adding cornstarch slurry during cooking?
The cornstarch mixed with water thickens the sauce, giving it a glossy, smooth texture that coats the beef and vegetables nicely.
- → How do the mixed greens affect the final dish?
Adding mixed greens near the end provides a fresh, slightly wilted texture and extra nutrients without overpowering the main flavors.
- → Are there any flavor variations suggested?
For extra heat, spice the sauce with chili flakes or Sriracha. You can also substitute beef for chicken or tofu for different protein options.