Save to Pinterest 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.
I discovered the magic of putting everything in the slow cooker before heading out for the day, and coming home to perfectly tender beef and vibrant broccoli. It quickly became one of our favorite weeknight dinners, especially when we crave comfort and wholesome flavors.
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.
- Prepare for slow cooking:
- Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth and stir gently to combine.
- Slow cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Thicken sauce:
- 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:
- Add broccoli florets to the slow cooker, stir gently, and cover. Continue cooking on low for an additional 45 to 60 minutes, until broccoli is crisp-tender and sauce has thickened.
- Cook brown 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.
- Add 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 to Pinterest This recipe reminds me of weekend gatherings when we let the slow cooker do all the work, freeing up time to play cards and talk stories. The easy assembly means even kids can help with layering the ingredients, always making dinner feel like a family event.
Serving Suggestions
Try pairing this dish with a simple cucumber salad or steamed edamame for extra crunch. If you want a heartier experience, sprinkle extra toasted sesame seeds right before serving.
Ingredient Swaps
Chicken breast or tofu can replace beef for lighter or vegetarian versions; just adjust cooking times so everything stays tender. Jasmine rice or white rice is quicker if you're short on time.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Save to Pinterest Let the slow cooker work its magic for this easy, nourishing dinner. A sprinkle of scallions and sesame at the end brightens every bowl.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Thinly sliced beef chuck or flank steak tenderizes well during slow cooking, absorbing flavors beautifully.
- → Can I substitute the brown rice with another grain?
Yes, jasmine or white rice can be used for a quicker cook time; adjust water and cooking time accordingly.
- → How do I keep the broccoli crisp-tender?
Add broccoli later in the slow cooking process and cook just until bright green and slightly tender.
- → What can be used instead of oyster sauce?
For dietary needs, tamari or gluten-free oyster sauce alternatives work well without compromising flavor.
- → Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Substituting beef with tofu or plant-based proteins works; adjust cooking time to prevent overcooking delicate ingredients.