How to prepare it
- In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, ½ cup beef broth, dark brown sugar, hoisin sauce, seasoned rice vinegar, sesame oil, crushed red pepper flakes, ground ginger, and minced garlic until fully combined.
- Add the sliced flank steak to the marinade, stirring to coat. Cover and let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or ideally refrigerate for up to 8 hours to deepen the flavors.
- Transfer the marinated beef and all the marinade liquid into your 6-quart Instant Pot. Secure the lid and ensure the steam release handle is set to sealing.
- Set the Instant Pot to cook on HIGH pressure for 6 minutes. Once complete, allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes and then carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to venting.
- Switch the Instant Pot to SAUTE mode. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and the remaining ¼ cup of beef broth until smooth. Gradually whisk this mixture into the Instant Pot to thicken the sauce.
- Stir the broccoli florets into the pot, cover (using the Instant Pot lid or a plate), and let it sit for 10 minutes or until the broccoli is cooked to your preferred tenderness and the sauce has thickened accordingly.
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the beef and broccoli over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve up this beef and broccoli dish, start with a generous portion of rice on the plate. Spoon the beef and broccoli mixture over the top, allowing the savory sauce to soak into the rice. You can further elevate your plate with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of extra sesame oil for presentation. Pair it with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and reheating tips
This dish is great for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze the beef and broccoli in portions. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, make sure to slice the flank steak against the grain. This technique helps to maintain tenderness in the meat. Also, don’t skip on marinating! While 30 minutes is sufficient, allowing the meat to sit longer will result in deeper flavors. If you want extra-crispy broccoli, add it to the Instant Pot at the end of the cooking process instead of during.
Creative twists
Want to mix things up? Consider these variations:
- Swap the flank steak for chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add bell peppers or snap peas along with the broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
- For a kick of flavor, sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil on top before serving.
- Try different sauces like teriyaki or Szechuan for an entirely new flavor profile.
Common questions
How long does it take to make Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli?
The actual cooking time in the Instant Pot is just 6 minutes, but don’t forget to factor in the marination time and the natural pressure release – overall, expect around 30 to 45 minutes.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Cuts like sirloin or chuck roast can also work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I make this dish low-carb or keto-friendly?
For a low-carb version, swap out the rice for cauliflower rice and consider reducing the sugar in the sauce to suit your dietary needs.
By following this easy-to-make recipe, you’ll be able to bring a restaurant-quality dish into your home, satisfying your cravings for hearty, delicious meals. Enjoy!
