Stir-Fried Beef with Snow Peas and Mushrooms – A High-Protein Asian Delight

Introduction

For those nights when you’re craving a satisfying, healthy, and quick meal, look no further than this Stir-Fried Beef with Snow Peas and Mushrooms. It’s an Asian-inspired dish that’s packed with tender beef, crisp snow peas, and earthy mushrooms—all brought together in a savory gluten-free sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish. Serve it over rice or noodles for a balanced and flavorful meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, with 28g of protein per serving, it’s a fantastic option if you’re aiming for a high-protein meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1 cup snow peas (or snap peas)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari)
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening)
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Preparation

Step 1:
To begin, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and carefully sear the thinly sliced beef for 2-3 minutes. The goal is to brown the beef on the outside without fully cooking it, which ensures it stays tender and juicy. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil along with the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until the aromatics release their fragrance, creating the base layer of flavor for the stir-fry.

Step 3:
Next, add the sliced mushrooms and snow peas to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they become tender-crisp. You’ll want to maintain their vibrant colors and slight crunch, which pairs beautifully with the tender beef.

Step 4:
Now, return the browned beef to the skillet. Pour in the sauce ingredients—gluten-free soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together until the beef and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 5:
To thicken the sauce, add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) into the skillet. Stir the mixture continuously for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the beef and vegetables. At this point, the beef should be fully cooked, tender, and flavorful.

COOKING Note:

• If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Alternatively, use a dash of chili oil for a more authentic heat.
• For an even richer flavor, you can substitute the olive oil with sesame oil, which imparts a deep, nutty taste.

Serving Suggestions

This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice for a traditional touch. Alternatively, you can enjoy it with quinoa for a nutrient-dense option or stir-fried noodles for a heartier meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions to elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside steamed broccoli or a light cucumber salad.

Tips

• Vegetarian Option: You can easily adapt this recipe to a vegetarian version by replacing the beef with tofu or tempeh. Simply follow the same steps to sauté the tofu and enjoy a protein-packed plant-based stir-fry.
• Make-Ahead Tip: To save time on busy weeknights, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you’ll only need to cook the beef and vegetables when it’s time for dinner.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to customize the stir-fry by adding more vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots. The added colors and textures will not only make the dish more vibrant but also increase its nutritional value.

Prep Time:10 minutes

Cooking Time:15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Sugars: 5g

Storage and Leftovers

Leftovers of this Stir-Fried Beef with Snow Peas and Mushrooms can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it, adding a small splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency. This dish also freezes well, so you can store it for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Stir-Fried Beef with Snow Peas and Mushrooms offers the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. In just 25 minutes, you can have a healthy, high-protein meal that’s packed with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this gluten-free stir-fry is sure to become a favorite. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your taste, adding more heat, vegetables, or even swapping out the protein. Serve it with your favorite side and enjoy the simplicity of a delicious, nourishing meal.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes! You can also use skirt steak, ribeye, or even ground beef for this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different cuts may cook faster or slower.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: You can add red pepper flakes to the sauce or drizzle chili oil over the finished dish for extra heat. Fresh sliced chilies also work well if you prefer a spicier kick.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply replace the beef with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can follow the same steps to stir-fry the tofu until crispy.

Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
A: Yes! This stir-fry reheats well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Store individual portions in airtight containers and enjoy them throughout the week

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