Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli and Cashew Coconut Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender strips of beef stir-fried with crisp broccoli florets in a rich cashew coconut sauce deliver a satisfying Whole30-approved Asian-inspired dish. This asian fusion-inspired whole30 (whole30, paleo) ready in about 35 minutes blends broccoli florets, full-fat canned coconut milk, coconut aminos into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Asian Fusion cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Drain 1/3 cup soaked raw cashews and place in a blender with 3/4 cup full-fat canned coconut milk and 1 tbsp lime juice. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add 1 lb thinly sliced flank steak seasoned with 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove beef and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 4 cups broccoli florets and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
  4. Step 4: Return the beef to the skillet. Pour in the cashew coconut sauce and 3 tbsp coconut aminos. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef and broccoli. Adjust seasoning with remaining sea salt and black pepper as desired. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli and Cashew Coconut Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli and Cashew Coconut Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli and Cashew Coconut Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli and Cashew Coconut Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Stir-Fried Beef with Broccoli and Cashew Coconut Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, paleo, gluten free, dairy free, high protein based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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