Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Here’s a simple and delicious Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli recipe:

1.5 lbs (680g) beef (flank steak, sirloin, or round), thinly sliced against the grain
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
3/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version)
1/2 cup beef broth
1/4 cup brown sugar or honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp ginger, grated
2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp sesame oil (optional for added flavor)
Cooked rice (for serving)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain. This helps the meat become more tender after cooking.
Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar (or honey), minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
Load the Slow Cooker: Add the sliced beef into the slow cooker, followed by the sauce mixture. Stir everything together so the beef is evenly coated.
Cook: Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The beef should be tender when done.
Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Then, add the broccoli florets. Stir again, and let it cook for the last 30 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
Serve: Serve the beef and broccoli over rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

For more flavor: Consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving for an extra burst of tang.
To make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes or chili sauce to the sauce mixture.

Enjoy your flavorful and tender slow cooker beef and broccoli!