Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty slow-cooked beef dish. This recipe for cornstarch-coated flank steak combines savory ingredients with a hint of sweetness, resulting in tender beef that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, serve it over rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1½ pounds flat round, flank, or skirt steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– ¼ cup cornstarch
– ¾ cup low-sodium beef broth
– ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– ½ teaspoon chili powder
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, sesame seeds
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 4-5 hours plus prep
Yield: 4-6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Steak
Place the sliced steak and cornstarch in a large resealable bag or bowl. Toss until the beef is evenly coated.
Mix the Sauce
In the slow cooker, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili powder. Stir until the brown sugar is dissolved.
Add Carrots
Add the shredded carrots to the slow cooker and mix them into the sauce.
Add the Beef
Add the cornstarch-coated beef to the slow cooker, stirring to ensure all pieces are submerged in the sauce.
Cook the Dish
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender.
Serve the Meal
Serve over cooked rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Steak Selection
Flat round, flank, or skirt steak are recommended for this recipe. Ensure the steak is thinly sliced against the grain for better tenderness.
Cooking Time
Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker settings. The meat is done when it is fork-tender.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Coating with Cornstarch
Coating the steak with cornstarch helps to create a light crispy texture when cooked. It also aids in thickening the sauce as the beef releases juices during cooking.
Using a Slow Cooker
A slow cooker allows for low and slow cooking, which helps to tenderize the meat and develop deeper flavors. This method is convenient as it requires minimal supervision.
Marinating the Beef
Marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce, beef broth, and spices before cooking enhances its flavor. This process allows the meat to absorb the marinade, making it more savory.
Layering Ingredients
Layering the carrots and beef in the slow cooker ensures that the flavors meld together while cooking. The carrots add sweetness and texture, complementing the beef well.
Garnishing for Presentation
Garnishing the finished dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds not only enhances the appearance but also adds freshness and crunch to the meal.
FAQ
Can I use other types of steak?
Yes, flat round, flank, or skirt steak are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use other cuts that are suitable for slow cooking.
What can I substitute for low-sodium soy sauce?
You can use regular soy sauce, but consider reducing the amount of added salt in the recipe to counterbalance the sodium content.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork, typically after 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the slow cooker.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just make sure to cut them into pieces similar in size to the carrots.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Conclusion
The slow-cooked beef dish combines tender steak with a sweet and savory sauce, enhanced by aromatic garlic and ginger. When served over rice and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, it offers a delightful meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Combine an assortment of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, sauté them with sesame oil, and add soy sauce for a quick and healthy dish.
Beef Tacos
Use the cooked beef mixture from the slow cooker as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos. Top with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime.
Carrot and Ginger Soup
Puree shredded carrots with ginger, broth, and coconut milk for a creamy, flavorful soup that complements the beef dish.
Rice Noodle Salad
Toss cooked rice noodles with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a dressing made from sesame oil and soy sauce for a light and refreshing side.
Beef Fried Rice
Use leftover beef and carrots to create a hearty fried rice, sautéing everything with cooked rice, peas, and scrambled eggs for a complete meal.
