Cocoa-Spiced Beef Stir-Fry

Okay, I'm going out on a limb here with this dish! I have to say I have never heard of cocoa powder in a stir-fry; however, I am willing to take a chance on this one!

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 2  cups beef broth
• 3  tablespoons soy sauce
• 2  tablespoons cornstarch
• 2  tablespoons  hershey's cocoa powder
• 2  teaspoons  minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons ground ginger (I would prefer fresh)
• 1  teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1  lb boneless beef top round steak (or flank steak)
• 3  tablespoons  vegetable oil, divided
• 1 1⁄2 cups onions (cut in large pieces)
• 1  cup carrot, sliced
• 3  cups  fresh broccoli florets, and pieces
• 1 1⁄2 cups red bell peppers, sliced
•  hot cooked rice
•  additional soy sauce
•  peanuts or  cashew nuts, for garnish

Directions

1. Stir together beef broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, cocoa, garlic, ginger and red pepper flakes; set aside. Cut beef steak into 1/4 inch wide slices.
2. Heat large skillet or work over high heat about 1 minute or until hot. Drizzle about 1 tablespoons oil into pan; heat about 30 seconds. Add beef strips; stir-fry until well browned. Remove from heat; set aside.
3. Drizzle remaining 2 tablespoons oil into pan; add onion pieces and carrots. Stir-fry until onon is crisp, but tender. Add broccoli and red pepper strips; cook until crisp-tender.
4. Return beef to pan; add broth mixture. Cook and stir until mixture comes to a boil and thickens. Serve over hot rice with additional soy sauce (if desired) and cashew or peanut pieces.