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.
After trying this recipe for a family dinner, I was amazed at how easily the beef became tender and flavorful without standing over the stove. The rice and greens add the perfect finishing touch for a hearty, well-rounded meal.
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 & Prepare 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.
- Slow Cook Beef:
- Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth and stir gently to combine. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Thicken Sauce & Add Broccoli:
- After 4 hours, whisk cornstarch and water together in a small bowl. Stir slurry into the slow cooker. Add broccoli florets, stir gently, cover, and continue cooking on low for an additional 45–60 minutes until broccoli is crisp-tender and sauce thickens.
- Prepare Brown Rice:
- Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork.
- Finish & Serve:
- Just before serving, stir mixed greens into the slow cooker and allow to wilt for 2–3 minutes. Serve beef and broccoli mixture over brown rice. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Save This dish has quickly become a staple in our house, especially for busy weeknights when we want something satisfying but light on preparation. Everyone enjoys customizing their bowl with extra greens or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Required Tools
Slow cooker (4–6 quart), large mixing bowl, saucepan with lid, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups & spoons
Allergen Information
Contains soy (soy sauce, oyster sauce); contains shellfish (oyster sauce). For gluten-free, use gluten-free tamari and oyster sauce alternatives. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 485, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 56 g, Protein: 36 g
Save This recipe is easy to adapt to your tastes and is ideal for making ahead for busy days. Enjoy the comfort of a homemade meal with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure the beef stays tender during cooking?
Use thinly sliced chuck or flank steak and cook on low heat for several hours to break down fibers and develop tenderness.
- → Can I substitute brown rice with other grains?
Yes, jasmine or white rice work well and cook faster if you’re short on time.
- → What can I add to spice up the sauce?
Adding chili flakes or a touch of Sriracha adds a pleasant heat without overwhelming the flavors.
- → How do I keep the broccoli crisp-tender?
Add the broccoli later in the cooking process and cook just until tender-crisp, about 45–60 minutes on low.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives for this dish?
Tofu or chicken can replace beef; adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure proper texture.