Oh my goodness, I can’t wait to share this recipe with you! Whenever I make **Healthy Instant Pot Mongolian Beef and Broccoli**, I’m instantly transported back to those cozy family dinners when we’d all gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter amidst the delicious smell of home-cooked food wafting through the air. This dish is a knockout—it’s a bit sweet, a bit savory, and just bursting with flavor! Plus, it’s quick to put together. The Instant Pot really does work magic in the kitchen, doesn’t it?
I’ve tried countless variations of Mongolian beef over the years, but this healthier spin with some vibrant broccoli is undoubtedly my favorite. I love that you can whip it up in no time and still enjoy a wholesome meal that feels fancy without all the fuss. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
What’s in Healthy Instant Pot Mongolian Beef and Broccoli?
Flank Steak: This cut of beef is super tender when cooked quickly, making it perfect for this dish. Slicing it thinly helps it soak up all those delicious flavors!
Broccoli Florets: Not only do they add a beautiful color to the plate, but they also pack a punch of nutrients! Feel free to use fresh or frozen, whatever you have handy.
Vegetable Oil: I prefer using canola oil for its high smoke point, but any vegetable oil will work fine. It’s there to get that beef browned beautifully.
Garlic and Ginger: These aromatic powerhouses create an incredible flavor base. Trust me, if you take a second to sauté them, you’ll be hooked!
Soy Sauce (Low Sodium): A must-have for that umami kick! The low-sodium version keeps things healthier, and you can control the saltiness better.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. Homemade or store-bought works wonders; just make sure it’s low-sodium if you’re watching your salt!
Brown Sugar: It balances the savory flavors perfectly. I’m a huge fan of using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to cut down on calories without sacrificing sweetness.
Cornstarch: This little magic ingredient helps thicken the sauce. It turns it from a runny mess into a luscious coating for your beef and broccoli.
Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: These will not only make your dish look stunning, but they also add a fresh crunch and lovely garnishing flair.
Cooked Rice: I love serving this over fluffy white or brown rice! You could even swap in cauliflower rice for an option lower in carbs.
Is Healthy Instant Pot Mongolian Beef and Broccoli Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is a delightful balance of protein, healthy fats, and veggies.
Flank Steak: This cut is leaner than other beef options, making it a great source of protein without all the extra fat.
Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C, K, and fiber, broccoli contributes to a healthy immune system and digestive health.
When you choose **low-sodium soy sauce**, it becomes a much healthier option than traditional takeout! Just keep an eye on the sugar—while **brown sugar** does bring some sweetness, it’s wise to moderate how much you use. Consider switching up the sweet stuff for a substitute if you want to cut down on calories.
How to Make Healthy Instant Pot Mongolian Beef and Broccoli?
1. Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat up.
2. Add the sliced flank steak to the pot. Sauté until the meat is browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the soy sauce, beef broth, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
5. Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to “Pressure Cook” on high for 10 minutes.
6. Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid.
7. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the pot, stirring to combine. The sauce will thicken within a minute.
8. Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir, allowing them to cook in the residual heat for 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
9. Serve the Mongolian beef and broccoli over cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Fun Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ideas to switch things up!
– You can add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas along with the broccoli for a colorful medley.
– Want some heat? Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha!
– For a low-carb option, serve it over zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of rice.
– Switch out the flank steak for chicken or tofu for a fun twist!
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! I’m sure it’ll become a regular in your household just like it is in mine. It’s a great way to bring everyone to the table with smiles all around. And hey, if you do whip this up, let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!
