Ready in: 6 hours · Serves: 4 · Technique: Slow Cooking · Storage: 3 days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
A tender and flavorful Slow Cooker Cashew Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry that warms your home and heart.
As the vibrant colors of autumn transition into the chilly embrace of winter here in New York City, I find myself in the kitchen more often, experimenting with meals that warm both the body and soul. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I love recipes that blend effortless preparation with delightful flavors. One such dish that has become a seasonal favorite in my home is the Slow Cooker Cashew Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
- Rich flavors blend beautifully, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul.
- The slow cooking method ensures tender, juicy beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.
- Enjoy a delightful crunch from cashews that adds texture to each bite.
- Versatile ingredients allow for customization based on your preferences.
Ingredients
To prepare this hearty dish, gather the following ingredients:
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Nuts and Aromatics
- 1 cup cashews (unsalted or lightly salted)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Serving
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How to Make Slow Cooker Cashew Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is simple and allows for an aromatic, hearty meal with minimal fuss.
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Start by slicing your flank steak, ensuring you're cutting against the grain. This little trick helps keep the meat tender and delightful to chew on. The aroma of freshly sliced beef always makes my mouth water with anticipation!
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and beef broth. Make sure you blend this until it's smooth and glossy-this mixture becomes the lifeblood of your dish.
Step 3: Layering the Ingredients
In your slow cooker, combine the sliced flank steak, minced garlic, minced ginger, and the broccoli florets. Pour your prepared sauce over the top, and then give it a gentle toss. This ensures that each piece of meat and broccoli is kissed by the savory goodness.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. The magic really happens during this time-the beef becomes beautifully tender, and the house fills with mouthwatering scents. Just keep an ear out for that cozy bubbling sound; it's truly a homey symphony.
Step 5: Finish with Cashews
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cashews. These little gems add a delightful crunch that balances the tenderness of the beef and broccoli-a real joy for your texture-loving palate.
Step 6: Serve it Up
Once finished, drizzle a touch of sesame oil for an added layer of flavor before serving over a bed of fluffy rice. The glossy sauce coats every piece delectably, making the dish not only delicious but visually appealing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the slicing properly: Always slice against the grain to keep the beef tender; otherwise, you'll end up with chewy bites.
- Overcooking the broccoli: If you add the broccoli too early, it can become mushy. Throw it in during the last hour to retain that vibrant color and crispness.
- Neglecting to whisk the sauce thoroughly: Ensure the cornstarch is fully combined with the other ingredients to avoid clumps in your final dish.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use high-quality soy sauce: The authenticity of your dish is greatly influenced by the soy sauce you choose. Opt for a brand you love.
- Experiment with veggies: While broccoli is traditional, feel free to mix in bell peppers or snap peas for a bit of extra color and nutrition.
- Adjust the sweetness: Depending on your taste, feel free to add more or less brown sugar. A little sweetness can help balance savory flavors.
Variations
- Substitute flank steak with chicken or tofu for different protein options.
- Replace cashews with peanuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Add a splash of lime juice for a citrusy twist.
- Incorporate additional vegetables such as carrots or snow peas.
How to Serve
- Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for extra flair.
- Pair with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it's best to freeze the beef and sauce separately from the broccoli for optimal texture. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
This dish truly shines in its simplicity and flavor depth. I've found that it's perfect for busy holiday seasons, as it allows me to focus on entertaining while still serving something that tastes like love in a bowl.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 28g protein · 20g carbs · 18g fat
Recipe by:
Savory Slow Cooker Cashew Beef Stir-Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by slicing your flank steak, ensuring you're cutting against the grain.
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and beef broth until smooth.
- In your slow cooker, combine the sliced flank steak, minced garlic, minced ginger, and broccoli florets. Pour your prepared sauce over the top and give it a gentle toss.
- Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cashews.
- Once finished, drizzle sesame oil before serving over a bed of fluffy rice.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while flank steak is recommended for its tenderness, you can also use sirloin or even chuck roast. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as tougher cuts may need longer to become tender.
2. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free as well.
3. Can I add other vegetables to the stir-fry?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots can be added along with the broccoli, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for the best texture.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
5. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can prep the ingredients and combine them in the slow cooker a day ahead. Just store the sauce separately, and mix it in right before cooking to maintain freshness.
