Gardein Beef and Broccoli Over Rice

I became a vegetarian only 6 years ago, so I had decades of meat-centered meals to re-imagine (with lots of pressure to make food my meat-eating husband would still like!).  Beef and broccoli is a dish he grew up with and loves to this day.  It was a tall order to try and make a vegetarian version of it, but I actually succeeded!

One item that is a vegetarians best friend is Gardein.  It is a line of plant-based (non-GMO) meat substitutes.  I know, sounds tantalizing, right?  But they are fantastic!  Even the omnivores in my extended family love their products.  They are available in most grocery stores and are even expanding the array of restaurants in which they are offered.  The products cook up like real meat and have a wonderful texture to them.  If you have never tried it, I really encourage you to give it a shot!

This is a wonderful and easy meal that will satisfy the entire family.  My daughter loves anything served over rice, so this was a huge hit from the beginning.  I've never tried this recipe with real beef, but I'm sure it would be delicious!


Ingredients
2 packages Gardein home style beefless tips
3 1/2 Tbsp cornstarch, divided
1 tsp garlic powder
2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
2 large heads of broccoli, florets only
1 large onion, cut into wedges
1/2 C soy sauce
3 Tbsp brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
cooked rice (we use brown)

Directions

1. Let beef set for 10-20 minutes to slightly defrost.  If it defrosts too much, it will be more difficult to handle.  I find the beef tips are a little too big for this dish, so I cut each piece in half.
2. In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 Tbsp of the cornstarch with the garlic powder.  Add the beef and toss until the pieces are evenly coated.
3. Heat 1 Tbsp of oil in a large skillet over over med-high heat.
4. Add the beef and saute, stirring occasionally, until each piece has a dark crispy coating.  Set aside.
5. Heat the remaining 1Tbsp olive oil in the same pan.  Cook the broccoli and onion for 5-10 minutes, or until crisp tender.
6. While the vegetables are cooking, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and remaining cornstarch in a small bowl.  Whisk until smooth. 
7. Return the beef to the skillet and add the sauce.  Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-5 minutes.  
8. Serve hot over rice.