Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of tender, slow-cooked beef and perfectly steamed broccoli, all infused with a rich, savory sauce that'll transport you straight to Chinese culinary heaven. This Crock Pot Chinese Beef and Broccoli is not just a meal—it's a flavor-packed journey that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience, with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef, sliced thin
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
Instructions
- Prepare the beef by slicing it against the grain into thin, uniform strips approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure tender, easy-to-eat pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create a flavorful marinade that will infuse the beef with rich, savory flavors.
- Place the sliced beef into the crock pot and pour the marinade mixture over the meat, ensuring each slice is thoroughly coated and well-distributed.
- Cover the crock pot and set to low heat setting, allowing the beef to cook slowly and become tender for approximately
- 5 to 4 hours.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add fresh broccoli florets on top of the beef, ensuring they sit above the liquid to steam and retain their bright green color and crisp texture.
- Once cooking is complete, gently stir the beef and broccoli to combine and ensure even coating with the sauce.
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Serve hot over steamed white rice or cauliflower rice, garnishing with optional sesame seeds or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Slice Technique Matters: Always slice your beef against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. Aim for uniform 1/4-inch thick strips for consistent cooking.
- Marinade Magic: Let the beef sit in the marinade for 30 minutes before cooking (if time allows) to enhance flavor absorption.
- Broccoli Timing is Crucial: Add broccoli only in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking and maintain its vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir into the sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Garnish Game: Elevate your dish with optional toppings like toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra kick.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve over steamed white rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa for a nutritious twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 105mg
