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Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli (With Keto Option)

Instant Pot meals are revered for their convenience and rich flavours, making them a staple in many kitchens. One such dish that has gained immense popularity is Beef and Broccoli. This simple yet satisfying recipe combines tender beef slices and crisp broccoli in a delicious sauce. In this article, we’ll explore how to whip up this delightful dish in your Instant Pot, including a keto-friendly variation for those watching their carb intake.

The Allure of Instant Pot Cooking

The Instant Pot has revolutionised home cooking. This multifunctional kitchen gadget not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in flavours and nutrients. With a few buttons and minimal prep time, you can create mouth-watering meals without slaving away in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beef and Broccoli

• 1 pound (450g) flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 2 tablespoons corn starch (or xanthan gum for a keto alternative)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (or a keto sweetener)

Optional for the Keto Version

• Substitute corn starch with xanthan gum to thicken the sauce without the added carbs.
• Replace brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by slicing the flank steak into thin strips. This ensures that the beef cooks quickly and absorbs the rich flavours of the sauce. Season the beef lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Once hot, add the vegetable oil. Sauté the minced garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn, as this can impart a bitter taste to the dish.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the sliced beef to the pot, stirring frequently until browned. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Remember that the beef will continue to cook under pressure, so you just want to give it a nice sear.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar (or keto sweetener), and cornstarch (or xanthan gum). Pour this mixture over the beef in the Instant Pot, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting, and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Add the Broccoli

Once the pressure has released, remove the lid and add the broccoli florets. Close the lid again and let the residual steam cook the broccoli for 2-3 minutes. If you prefer, you can quickly sauté the broccoli using the ‘Sauté’ function for a crisp-tender result.

Step 7: Serve

Stir everything to combine before drizzling with sesame oil for added flavour. Serve hot, either on its own or with a base of cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option, or traditional rice for a classic twist.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli is a wonderfully adaptable dish that caters to various dietary preferences, making it perfect for family meals or weeknight dinners. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy the comforting flavours of Chinese cuisine right from your own kitchen. Whether you choose the traditional or keto version, this dish promises to delight your taste buds and offer a satisfying dining experience. Embrace the convenience of the Instant Pot and savour every bite of this scrumptious meal!