Craving a delicious, fuss-free meal? This Crock Pot Ginger Soy Beef and Broccoli recipe offers a fantastic solution for a healthy crock pot dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and the savory, tender results will make it a new family favorite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beef: Use boneless chuck roast or stew meat. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a different flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended. Tamari works for a gluten-free option.
- Fresh Ginger: Essential for flavor. Ground ginger can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are ideal. Frozen broccoli can be used, but add it closer to the end of cooking.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness. Maple syrup or honey can be used as alternatives.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 lbs boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
Sauce:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 4-6 hours (on high) or 6-8 hours (on low)
- Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies based on ingredients)
- Tools needed: 6-quart crock pot or slow cooker
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef and Sauce
Place your cut beef pieces into the crock pot. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, grated ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper until well combined. This creates your savory sauce.
2. Combine and Cook
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef in the crock pot. Add the chopped onion to the pot. Stir everything gently to ensure the beef is coated.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. Your beef should be fork-tender when it’s ready. This slow cooking process makes for a fantastic healthy crock pot dinner.
4. Thicken the Sauce
Once the beef is tender, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the crock pot. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on high, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
5. Add the Broccoli
Stir the fresh broccoli florets into the thickened sauce and beef. Cook for another 30 minutes on high, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. You want it vibrant and slightly firm, not mushy.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your delicious Crock Pot Ginger Soy Beef and Broccoli over steamed brown rice or quinoa for a complete and healthy meal. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Variation Ideas:
- Add sliced carrots or bell peppers along with the onion for extra vegetables.
- For a touch of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the sauce ingredients.
- Stir in some water chestnuts or bamboo shoots during the last hour of cooking for added crunch.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Ginger Soy Beef and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until thoroughly heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you put raw beef in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can absolutely put raw beef directly into your slow cooker. The long cooking time will thoroughly cook it.
Do you need to brown beef before slow cooking?
No, you do not need to brown the beef first for this healthy crock pot dinner. The slow cooking process will make it tender and flavorful without this extra step.
Can you use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but add it during the last 30 minutes to an hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe is not inherently spicy. If you prefer a kick, you can add red pepper flakes.
Can you make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Simply reheat gently when you are ready to serve.
What can you serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.