Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? You’ve come to the right place! My Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli blends savory beef and crisp broccoli in under 30 minutes. Packed with flavor, it’s the perfect meal for busy nights. I’ll guide you through each simple step, from prepping the sauce to achieving tender beef. Get ready for a delightful dish that will impress your family and save you time!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
The main ingredients create a balance of flavors. The flank steak brings rich taste and protein. The broccoli adds a nice crunch and a bright green color. Soy sauce and oyster sauce create a salty and umami depth. Ginger and garlic give warmth and zest. Cornstarch helps thicken the sauce for a nice coating.
Optional Ingredients for Garnish
– Sesame seeds
– Sliced green onions
You can use sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. Sliced green onions add color and a fresh bite. These garnishes make the dish look beautiful and taste better.
Recommended Side Dishes
– Steamed white rice
– Fried rice
– Noodles
Steamed white rice is a classic choice. It soaks up the sauce well. Fried rice adds a fun twist with more flavors. Noodles offer an easy way to enjoy the meal too. You can mix and match these sides to fit your taste. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Savory Sauce
To start, gather your ingredients. You need soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and beef broth. In a bowl, mix these well. This savory sauce will add great flavor to your dish.
Sautéing the Beef
Next, set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Add vegetable oil and let it heat. Once hot, add the sliced flank steak. Season it with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes. You want the beef to brown nicely.
Pressure Cooking the Beef and Sauce
Now, pour your savory sauce mixture into the pot. Stir it well to coat the beef. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and check that the steam valve is sealed. Set it to Manual or Pressure Cook on high for 10 minutes.
Adding the Broccoli
After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. Then, do a quick release to let out the rest of the steam. Carefully open the lid and add the broccoli florets. Close the lid again. Use the Sauté function for 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is bright and tender.
Final Touches and Serving Instructions
Finally, drizzle sesame oil over the beef and broccoli. Stir to mix the flavors. Serve this dish over rice or noodles. You can add sesame seeds on top if you like. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Tender Beef
To get tender beef, choose flank steak. Slice it thinly against the grain. This helps break down the fibers, making the meat softer. When cooking, avoid overcooking the beef. The Instant Pot cooks quickly, so ten minutes is just right. Letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking also helps. This keeps the juices in, making it juicy.
Best Practices for Cooking Broccoli
For bright and crisp broccoli, add it at the end. After cooking the beef, stir in the florets. Use the Sauté function for a few minutes. This keeps the broccoli green and crunchy. Overcooking can make it mushy and dull. Always rinse the broccoli before using to remove dirt and pesticides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people overcook the beef or broccoli. Remember, the Instant Pot is powerful. Another common mistake is not seasoning well. Salt and pepper enhance the flavor. Also, avoid skipping the resting time for the beef. This small step makes a big difference in taste. Lastly, make sure to seal the pot properly before cooking. If not, steam will escape, and the dish won’t cook as it should.
For more details on cooking this dish, check out the Full Recipe for Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli.
Variations
Alternative Vegetables to Include
You can switch up the veggies in this dish easily. Try using bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. They add color and crunch. These choices make the meal more vibrant and tasty. You can also mix in mushrooms for a savory touch. Just remember to cut them to a similar size as the broccoli.
Different Cuts of Beef
Flank steak is great, but other cuts work too. You can use sirloin or ribeye for more flavor. Both will give you tender bites. If you want something leaner, try eye of round. Each cut will bring its own taste to the dish. Just slice it thinly for the best results.
Spicy Beef and Broccoli Option
Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. You can also use fresh chili peppers for a bold flavor. This spicy twist gives the dish an exciting kick. Your taste buds will thank you for the extra zing!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. Enjoy them within three days for the best taste. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a good option.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use the microwave or a skillet. If using a microwave, heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway to ensure even heating. If using a skillet, add a splash of water. Heat over medium until warm.
Freezing Tips
To freeze, place beef and broccoli in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy your tasty meal later! For the full recipe, check back to see how it all comes together.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Beef and Broccoli in an Instant Pot?
It takes about 10 minutes to cook Beef and Broccoli in the Instant Pot. You should also allow for 5 minutes of natural pressure release. So, the total time is around 15 minutes once the pot is pressurized. This quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy nights.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it at the end of cooking. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes in the Sauté function. This will keep the broccoli bright and flavorful. It’s an easy way to save time!
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use coconut aminos or tamari as a soy sauce substitute. Both options bring great flavor and work well in this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter taste, use low-sodium versions of these sauces.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe is not gluten-free due to soy sauce. However, you can make it gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos. These options will give you the same rich taste without gluten.
How can I make this recipe low in sodium?
To lower the sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. You can also reduce the amount of soy sauce in the recipe. Adding more herbs and spices can enhance flavor without needing salt. Try these tips for a healthier dish.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
You learned about the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions for making Beef and Broccoli. I shared tips on making tender beef and cooking broccoli right. You now have some tasty variations to try. Proper storage and reheating methods help you enjoy your meal longer.
Cooking can be fun and easy. I hope you feel confident to make this dish. Enjoy your cooking journey and the great taste of Beef and Broccoli!
