Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry

The nights you would normally call for takeout deserve a real answer, and this stir-fry is it. Coconut aminos and a little molasses stand in for the soy sauce, and the result is the deep, savory comfort you remember, built entirely from foods that support your healing.

Beef is a strong source of iron and zinc, 2 minerals involved in healthy red blood cells and a steady immune response, both of which matter when your body is doing repair work. The broccoli and carrot add fiber and a dose of vitamin A. This is one plate carrying protein, minerals, and vegetables together.

The animal gave its life for this meal, and the speed of a stir-fry does not have to mean rushing through it. Move with attention at the stove, let the ginger and garlic bloom, and serve it in a bowl you like. A plate this good, made from real food, is its own quiet pleasure.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 0.5 cup coconut aminos
• 1/8 cup blackstrap molasses
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder
• 1 lb thin-sliced steak
• 1 head broccoli
• 1/2 cup shredded carrot
• 1/2 cup water chestnuts
• 1/4 cup green onion, chopped, for garnish

The source includes ground black pepper, which it already marks for omission on strict AIP. It is left out here because black pepper is a seed-based spice excluded on the elimination phase. The coconut aminos and molasses carry the savory depth on their own. Honey can stand in for the molasses if you prefer.

Method

• Soften the chopped onion in coconut oil in a large skillet.
• Add the coconut aminos, molasses, garlic, ginger, and a little salt. Bring to a simmer.
• Whisk in the arrowroot and stir until the sauce thickens. If it tightens too far, loosen it with a splash of water.
• Add the sliced steak and simmer in the sauce until cooked through.
• Stir in the broccoli, carrot, and water chestnuts to heat through. Finish with green onion.

Instant Pot variation

Use the Saute setting to soften the onion and build the sauce through step 3, then add the steak and pressure cook on low briefly. Release pressure, return to Saute, and add the vegetables at the end so they stay crisp.

*Adapted from acleanplate.com*