Crockpot Beef and Broccoli

I love doing crock pot meals on the weekend, really it’s the only time I can do a crock pot meal.  During the week, I’m gone for about 11 hours a day.  I think my crock pot has a mind of it’s own because the “low” setting means whatever liquid is in there is boiling.  Long story short – I don’t trust food in my crock pot for 11 hours.

Yesterday, we spent several hours working on the yard.  We managed to get the lawn mowed; the irises, lilies, wisteria, and roses trimmed; and all the dead stuffed or weeds pulled up.  I realized I have a ton of space for new bulbs and need to re-do the barrier between the grass and the tree in the front yard.  Guess it’s another trip to Home Depot next weekend!

While we out working on the yard, I had this Beef and Broccoli going in the crock pot.  It’s super simple – through all the liquids and the beef in and cook for 6 hours.  At the end, add the broccoli and cornstarch and steam some rice.  Really easy!  And it’s so nice not to have to cook a whole meal when you’re tired and dirty from yard work!

Crockpot Beef and Broccoli
Adapted from Table for Two

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 6 1/2 hours
Total time: About 7 hours
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb. boneless beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into thin strips
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 8 tsp Splenda Brown Sugar Blend
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups water

Cooking Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, sugar, oil, and garlic.
2. Add the sauce and the beef to the crockpot and toss to coat the beef.
3. Cover the crockpot and let cook on Low for 6 hours.
4. After 6 hours, remove 4-5 tablespoons of the cooking liquid and add to a small cup. Mix the cornstarch into this liquid and then add back to the crockpot. Add the broccoli to the crockpot, cover, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, add the water to a small saucepan. Once boiling, add the rice and stir. Cover and reduce heat to low and cook for 15 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed.
6. Serve the beef, broccoli, and sauce over the rice.