A amazing dish that brings the takeout experience right into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe is your ticket to a delicious, hassle-free dinner that’s sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
- The Instant Pot locks in flavors and tenderizes the beef in record time, making it unbelievably succulent.
- Broccoli retains its vibrant color and crisp texture, adding a fresh contrast to the tender beef.
- A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Customizable to suit your spice preference, making it a versatile dish for any palate.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar is completely dissolved. This creates the base of your dish’s flavor profile, so take a moment to ensure everything is well combined. Tip: For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Saute’ function and add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the thinly sliced flank steak in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown each side for about 2 minutes per batch. This step is crucial for developing depth of flavor in the beef.
Step 3: Combine and Pressure Cook
Return all the beef to the Instant Pot and pour the prepared sauce over it. Secure the lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing’. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. The pressure cooking process will tenderize the beef and infuse it with the sauce’s flavors.
Step 4: Quick Release and Add Broccoli
Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the pressure. Open the lid and add the broccoli florets. Tip: For crunchier broccoli, you can steam it separately and add it at the end.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir this into the Instant Pot and set it to ‘Saute’ again. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more beef broth to thin it out.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, slice the beef against the grain to ensure it’s tender after cooking. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-sliced beef from the store. To make this dish even quicker, prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef in the sauce for an hour before cooking. Lastly, if you prefer your broccoli more tender, you can add it before pressure cooking, but reduce the cooking time by a minute to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the beef for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more color and texture.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Incorporate mushrooms for an extra umami boost.
- Try adding a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but add it directly from frozen and consider increasing the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through. However, fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a stovetop version by simmering the beef in the sauce on low heat until tender, then adding the broccoli and thickening the sauce as directed.
Summary
This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.