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 (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

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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.

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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