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Explore expert guidance and recreate the delicious, health-conscious, and convenient meal by following this detailed recipe from Cook And Eats.

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli

Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to prepare a delicious slow cooker beef and broccoli dish. This combination strikes a perfect balance between tender meat, crisp veggies, and a sumptuous sauce.

• 1 ½ pounds beef flank steak, sirloin, or chuck roast, thinly sliced against the grain
• 3 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth or consommé
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ⅓ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar as substitute)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
• Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, sriracha

Nutrition Information for Slow Cooker Beef And Broccoli Recipe(Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg

Recipe Variations

This slow cooker beef and broccoli recipe can be adapted to suit different dietary needs and flavor preferences:

• Instant Pot Version: Reduce cook time and get the same tender beef and crunchy broccoli with pressure cooking.
• Keto Friendly: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and omit the brown sugar to keep carbs low.
• Gluten Free: Choose tamari or gluten-free soy sauce for a safe and flavorful option.
• Vegetarian Variation: Swap beef for marinated tofu or tempeh with the sauce for a plant-based alternative.
• Add Veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can boost nutrition and color.

Tips and Secrets for the Perfect Beef and Broccoli

• Slice Beef Thinly: Cut against the grain for tenderness and easy chewing.
• Marinate Properly: Use soy sauce and cornstarch to tenderize and create a silky sauce coating.
• Add Broccoli Later: Add broccoli in the last 30 minutes of slow cooking to keep it vibrant and crisp.
• Use High-Quality Sauce Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and good soy sauce make a significant flavor difference.
• Thicken Sauce at the End: Use a cornstarch slurry dissolved in water to achieve the perfect glossy coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Allows beef to cook evenly and prevents steaming.

Recommended Tools for Making Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Using the right tools makes this recipe easier and helps achieve perfect, flavorful results every time.

• Slow Cooker/Crockpot: Essential for slow, even cooking that tenderizes the beef perfectly.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For thinly slicing beef across the grain and chopping broccoli florets precisely.
• Cutting Board: A quality, sturdy board for safe and easy preparation.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities, especially for sauces.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating the beef and mixing cornstarch slurry.
• Spatula or Tongs: For easy stirring and serving without breaking up the beef or broccoli.
• Steamer Basket (optional): To blanch broccoli before adding to the slow cooker, preserving color and crunch.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Recipe? Step-by-Step Instructions & Tips

1. Prepare the beef: Thinly slice 1 ½ pounds of beef flank steak or sirloin against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup beef broth, ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce, ⅓ cup brown sugar, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon rice vinegar until well combined.
3. Combine in slow cooker: Place the beef in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it. Stir to coat evenly.
4. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the beef is tender and infused with flavors.
5. Add broccoli: About 30 minutes before serving, add 3 cups of fresh or frozen broccoli florets. Stir to combine and cook until broccoli is crisp-tender.
6. Thicken the sauce: In the last 10 minutes, stir in 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water to thicken the sauce.
7. Serve and garnish: Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a dash of sriracha for extra flavor.

Tips to Succeed with This Recipe

• Slice beef thinly and against the grain: This guarantees tender, easy-to-chew beef.
• Adjust cooking times: Depending on your slow cooker’s heat, adjust timing for beef tenderness.
• Add broccoli late: To keep it crisp and vibrant, add it near the end of cooking.
• Use fresh garlic and ginger: They provide essential authentic flavors to the sauce.
• Thicken properly: Gradually add cornstarch slurry to avoid clumps and achieve the perfect sauce consistency.