Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

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If you’re in search of a quick and delicious meal that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout to your kitchen, look no further than this Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli! This recipe perfectly balances tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Thanks to the Instant Pot, this dish can be whipped up in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe becomes a staple thanks to its ease of preparation and incredible flavor. The beauty of pressure cooking is that it infuses the beef with a depth of flavor while keeping the broccoli bright and crisp. You’ll find that the savory, umami-rich sauce coats everything beautifully, making it irresistible when paired with steamed rice or noodles. Plus, this dish is versatile, allowing for quick substitutions based on what you have on hand. All of these elements contribute to making this recipe an absolute must-try for any home cook.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 12 ounces (340 g) beef steak (flank steak is recommended), sliced into strips or cubed
• ¼ cup (60 ml) water (to deglaze the pot after browning the beef)

How To Make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all of your ingredients. Slice your beef into strips or cubes, and make sure your garlic is minced and your ginger is grated. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Once it’s hot, add the vegetable oil. After a minute, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they are fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next, add the sliced beef to the pot. Brown the beef for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial as it develops a great depth of flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

After the beef has browned, carefully pour in the ¼ cup of water to deglaze the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom—this will add even more flavor to your dish.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot. Make sure to set the valve to the sealing position. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure, but once it does, the cooking time will begin.

Step 6: Quick Release and Add Broccoli

Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to the venting position. Once the steam has fully released, open the lid. Gently stir in your broccoli florets.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Close the lid again and set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender yet still vibrant green. This last step will ensure your broccoli retains its crunch and color. Serve your beef and broccoli over rice or noodles, and enjoy your homemade takeout!

Expert Tips

• For best results, use flank steak or sirloin, as they both have great flavor and tenderness.
• If you prefer your broccoli to be less crunchy, you can add it during the last minute of pressure cooking instead of sautéing afterward.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
• Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal; consider using jasmine rice for extra fragrance.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the beef for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce to deepen the flavor of the sauce.
• Enhance with sesame oil or sesame seeds for a nutty finish.
• Try adding a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water at the end to thicken the sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the beef and broccoli in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave for a quick option. Ensure it’s heated thoroughly before serving again.

FAQ

Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

While fresh beef is recommended for optimal flavor and texture, you can use frozen beef. However, you may need to increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes to ensure it’s cooked all the way through.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can prepare this on the stovetop. Brown the beef in a large skillet, add the garlic and ginger, then stir in the water and broccoli, cover, and simmer until cooked through.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, brown rice, or lo mein noodles. You can also enjoy it with steamed vegetables for a low-carb option.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To create a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to form a slurry, then stir it into the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking on sauté mode. Allow it to simmer until thickened to your liking.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli recipe is a delightful option for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. With its quick preparation time and mouthwatering flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So why not skip the takeout next time and whip this up at home? You and your family deserve a delicious, homemade meal that’s easy to prepare and oh-so-satisfying. Happy cooking!

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