Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Classic steak stir fry gets a healthy upgrade in this easy weeknight dinner recipe. The Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry showcases vibrant rainbow vegetables, stir-fried until perfectly tender and tossed with juicy strips of beef. This dish is not only sugar-free and gluten-free but also paleo-friendly, ensuring that you can enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising on health. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings, this recipe stands out for its delicious taste and colorful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This stir fry comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Packed with Veggies: Enjoy a variety of colorful vegetables that boost nutrition and flavor.
• Flavorful Sauce: A delightful blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and orange juice adds a zesty kick without added sugars.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles to suit your preference.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools you’ll need before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or large wok
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or large wok: Ideal for high-heat cooking, ensuring even searing of the beef and quick cooking of the vegetables.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for both meat and veggies, which is crucial for even cooking.
• Whisk or fork: Helps combine the stir fry sauce ingredients thoroughly for better flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Classic steak stir fry gets a healthy upgrade in this easy weeknight dinner recipe. Rainbow veggies are stir-fried until bite tender, then tossed with tender strips of beef in a sugar free, gluten free, and paleo friendly sauce that doesn’t sacrifice an ounce of flavor.

For the Beef

• 1 lb steak (sirloin, skirt, or flank) (thinly sliced)
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

For the Vegetables

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled and thinly sliced into 1/4 coins)
• ½ lb asparagus (ends trimmed, sliced into 2 pieces)
• 1 medium red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• 6 oz snow peas

For the Stir Fry Sauce

• ¼ c soy sauce (or coconut aminos, or tamari)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
• 2 tsp sesame oil

How to Make Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Remove the steak from its packaging and pat it dry.
2. Place on a plate and transfer to the freezer for 20-30 minutes until firm.
3. Slice thinly against the grain into 1/8 – 1/4 thick slices.

Step 2: Make the Stir Fry Sauce

1. In a small bowl or 1-cup measuring cup, combine all stir fry sauce ingredients: coconut aminos, rice vinegar, orange juice, honey, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
2. Whisk until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Heat a cast iron skillet or large wok over high heat; add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Allow oil to shimmer before adding steak slices seasoned with salt and pepper.
3. Stir fry until charred and medium rare (about 3-4 minutes), then remove from skillet with tongs.

Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables

1. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet; heat until shimmering.
2. Add carrots and asparagus; sauté for about 3 minutes while stirring frequently.
3. Toss in bell peppers and snap peas; stir fry all vegetables for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic; cook for 1 more minute while tossing frequently.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return cooked steak to the skillet along with prepared stir fry sauce (re-whisk if needed).
2. Stir constantly until sauce thickens and vegetables reach bite tenderness (about 3 minutes).

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove from heat; stir in sesame seeds.
2. Serve immediately over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles.
3. Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to four days.

How to Serve Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Enjoying your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry is all about finding the perfect complement for this vibrant dish. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that enhance its flavors and textures.

Over Rice

• White Rice: Cook fluffy white rice as a base to soak up the savory stir fry sauce.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, serve over nutty brown rice that adds a chewy texture.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice is light and allows the flavors of the stir fry to shine.

With Noodles

• Rice Noodles: These gluten-free noodles provide a soft, chewy base perfect for absorbing the sauce.
• Whole Wheat Noodles: For a heartier choice, whole wheat noodles add fiber and richness.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Butter Lettuce: Use butter lettuce leaves as wraps for a fresh, crunchy way to enjoy your stir fry.
• Collard Greens: These sturdy greens make excellent wraps, adding a unique flavor and texture.

Topped with Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add brightness and enhance the overall presentation.

How to Perfect Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Creating the perfect Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables in vibrant colors for visual appeal and nutrition.
• High Heat Cooking: Ensure your skillet or wok is very hot before adding ingredients for optimal searing and flavor.
• Prep Ahead: Chop veggies and slice meat beforehand to streamline the cooking process.
• Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your sauce by varying the amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder based on preference.
• Stir Frequently: Keep everything moving in the skillet to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Taste as You Go: Sample during cooking; adjust seasoning with salt or additional sauce if necessary.

Best Side Dishes for Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Pairing your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast in both color and texture.
2. Garlic Bok Choy: Sautéed bok choy with garlic adds a delicious Asian touch that complements the stir fry beautifully.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing brings a crisp element to balance the hearty dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs and lemon offers a protein-packed side that pairs well with beef.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide natural sweetness that complements savory flavors.
6. Miso Soup: A light miso soup serves as a warming starter that prepares your palate for the main event.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Bold preparation: Many people skip the step of chilling the steak before slicing. This can lead to thicker slices that don’t cook properly. Always chill for 20-30 minutes for optimal slicing.

• Bold seasoning neglect: Not seasoning the steak before cooking can result in bland flavors. Make sure to season with kosher salt and ground pepper to enhance the taste.

• Bold oil temperature: Cooking in oil that’s not hot enough leads to steaming rather than stir-frying. Ensure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding the ingredients.

• Bold overcooking veggies: Overcooking vegetables can make them mushy and unappealing. Cook each type of vegetable for the recommended time to maintain their crunchiness.

• Bold sauce settling: Forgetting to whisk the stir fry sauce again before adding it can cause uneven distribution of flavors. Always give it a good stir right before pouring.

• Bold improper storage: Storing leftover stir fry in an open container can dry it out. Use tightly sealed containers for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stir fry in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry:

Can I use another type of meat in my Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry?

Yes! Chicken, lamb, or turkey can be excellent substitutes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat used.

What vegetables work best in this stir fry?

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. The key is choosing colorful options for a vibrant dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! By using coconut aminos or tamari instead of soy sauce, your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry can be made gluten-free.

How do I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

To make it vegetarian, simply replace the beef with tofu or tempeh and ensure your sauce ingredients are plant-based.

Can I meal prep this Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prepping as leftovers store well and reheat easily throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors and nutrients. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various veggies and proteins according to your preference. Give this delicious recipe a try today!