Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Classic steak stir fry gets a healthy upgrade with this Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry recipe. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish combines tender strips of beef with an array of colorful vegetables, all tossed in a delicious sauce that is sugar-free, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly. It’s an easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal that suits various occasions—from family dinners to meal prep for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Nutritious: Packed with vibrant veggies, this stir fry is a great way to boost your daily vegetable intake.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade sauce provides a rich flavor without any added sugars or gluten.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra servings and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just store them in the fridge!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry efficiently, gather the necessary tools before you begin cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or large wok: Provides even heat distribution for perfect stir frying, ensuring your ingredients cook quickly and evenly.
• Sharp knife: Essential for thinly slicing the steak and vegetables, which helps them cook faster.
• Whisk: Necessary for combining the stir fry sauce ingredients smoothly without lumps.

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Ingredients

To make your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Beef

• 1 lb steak (sirloin, skirt, or flank) (thinly sliced)
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground pepper

For the Vegetables

• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 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 Sauce

• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 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 Steak

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

Step 2: Make the Stir Fry Sauce

1. In a small bowl or 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.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to shimmer.
3. Add the sliced steak to the skillet, season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir fry for about 3–4 minutes until charred and medium rare. Remove from heat and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add carrots and asparagus; sauté for 3 minutes while stirring frequently.
3. Toss in bell peppers and snow peas; stir fry everything together for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic; cook for another minute while tossing often.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

1. Return the cooked steak back to the skillet along with your prepared stir fry sauce.
2. Stir frequently until everything is coated well, allowing the sauce to thicken—this should take about 3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.
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.

Enjoy your delicious Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry!

How to Serve Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Serving Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry is a delightful experience that can be customized in numerous ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Over Rice

• White or brown rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the savory flavors of the stir fry.
• Try jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist.

With Cauliflower Rice

• A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice adds a light texture and complements the dish well.
• Simply sauté cauliflower florets until tender for a quick option.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, as wraps for a fresh, crunchy bite.
• Add sliced cucumbers or carrots for extra crunch and flavor.

Paired with Noodles

• Serve over rice noodles, soba noodles, or whole wheat spaghetti for a filling option.
• Toss the noodles with a bit of sesame oil to enhance the flavors.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or basil to add freshness and brightness.
• These herbs can elevate the taste of the dish significantly.

With Avocado Slices

• Adding creamy avocado slices on top brings richness and balances out the flavors.
• This addition also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.

How to Perfect Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

To achieve the best results with your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Beef: Opt for fresh cuts like sirloin or flank steak for tenderness and flavor.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop vegetables and mix sauce ingredients in advance to streamline cooking time.
• Use High Heat: Cooking at high temperatures ensures quick cooking while retaining the crunchiness of veggies.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Stir fry in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking and avoid steaming.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water. For thicker sauce, increase cornstarch slightly.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your stir fry before serving; adjust seasoning if needed by adding salt or more soy sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that complements the stir fry’s flavors while adding vibrant color.
2. Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy; toss sliced cucumbers in sesame oil and vinegar for a quick salad.
3. Garlic Green Beans: Sauté green beans with garlic until tender-crisp; their flavors blend beautifully with the main dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with diced tomatoes and parsley offers protein and fiber alongside your stir fry.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can serve as a comforting starter that pairs nicely with Asian-inspired dishes.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini provides a light alternative to traditional noodles; sauté briefly before serving.
7. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash adds sweetness that balances well against savory flavors in stir fry.
8. Roasted Bell Peppers: Roasting intensifies their sweetness; serve alongside for an additional veggie boost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the meat chilling step. Not chilling the steak before slicing can make it hard to cut thinly. Chilling firms up the meat, making it easier to achieve those perfect slices.
• Overcooking vegetables. Cooking veggies for too long will result in mushy textures. Remember to stir-fry them just until they are bright and tender but still have a bit of crunch.
• Ignoring seasoning balance. Failing to season properly can lead to bland stir fry. Always taste your sauce before adding it to the pan and adjust the salt or sweetness as needed.
• Neglecting high heat cooking. Using low heat can cause the meat and veggies to steam rather than sear, losing out on that delicious char flavor. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding ingredients.
• Not prepping ingredients in advance. Trying to chop vegetables while cooking leads to chaos and uneven cooking. Prepare all your ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• This dish 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 with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth with the stir fry. Cover and heat while stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry?

Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry is a healthy twist on classic stir fry that combines tender beef with colorful vegetables in a flavorful sauce.

Can I substitute other meats?

Yes! You can use chicken, turkey, or lamb instead of beef for different flavors and textures in your stir fry.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! If you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos, this recipe remains gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

How do I customize my Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry?

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as broccoli or zucchini, for extra nutrition and variety.

What side dishes pair well with this stir fry?

Serve Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Extra Veggie Steak Stir Fry is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious yet delicious. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it truly your own!