This Gluten Free Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of takeout right to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a soy-free and gluten-free alternative that’s sure to impress. With tender beef, vibrant broccoli, and a savory sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings while accommodating dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Savory: The unique blend of coconut aminos and spices creates a rich flavor profile that rivals any restaurant dish.
- Quick Preparation: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can whip up this meal in no time.
- Healthier Option: This version uses wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious choice compared to traditional Mongolian beef.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal that suits your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large deep skillet
- Whisk
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Clean plate
Importance of Each Tool
- Large deep skillet: Ideal for cooking the beef evenly without overcrowding.
- Whisk: Ensures all sauce ingredients are well combined for maximum flavor.
- Sharp knife: Makes slicing the flank steak easier and helps retain its juices.
Ingredients
This Mongolian Beef with Broccoli is flavorful, simple, and better than takeout! This version is soy-free and gluten-free.
For the Sauce
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (sub apple cider vinegar for AIP)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 thumb ginger (grated)
- 2 tsp coconut sugar
- Salt and pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tsp arrowroot starch
- 3-4 tbsp avocado oil (divided)
- 1 1/2 cup broccoli florets
- 1 tsp sea salt (divided)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (omit for AIP)
For the Beef
- 1.5 lb flank steak
- 2 tbsp arrowroot starch
- 3 green onions (sliced into 1 strips)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Combine the coconut aminos, beef broth, coconut sugar, 2 teaspoons of arrowroot starch, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk well until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
In a large deep skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes or until fork-tender. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Flank Steak
Season both sides of the flank steak with salt and pepper. Slice against the grain into bite-sized pieces approximately 1 inch thick. In a bowl, coat these slices with arrowroot starch thoroughly.
Step 4: Cook the Flank Steak
In the same skillet, heat an additional 2 tablespoons of avocado oil until hot. Add half of the steak slices in a single layer to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they begin to crisp. Remove from pan and repeat with remaining steak slices.
Step 5: Make the Sauce Thicker
Pour your prepared sauce mixture into the hot pan slowly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow it to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine Beef, Broccoli & Garnish
Add back in the cooked broccoli and sliced green onions along with the beef into the pan. Reduce heat and toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately alongside steamed rice or cauliflower rice for an excellent meal!
How to Serve Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
Serving Gluten Free Mongolian Beef is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a satisfying meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Serve with Rice
- Steamed White Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the savory sauce perfectly.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that pairs well with the beef, adding a healthy twist.
Add Fresh Garnishes
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
Pair with Vegetables
- Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy complements the beef’s richness.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crisp texture and balances the dish.
Enjoy as Leftovers
- Wrap in Lettuce Leaves: Use leftover beef as a filling in lettuce wraps for a fresh, crunchy bite.
- In a Stir-Fry: Add any remaining beef to your favorite stir-fry for an easy next-day meal.
How to Perfect Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
Perfecting your Gluten Free Mongolian Beef involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve delicious results every time.
- Use Quality Flank Steak: Select high-quality flank steak for tenderness and flavor.
- Marinate If Possible: Marinating the beef in coconut aminos for 30 minutes enhances flavor depth.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak in batches to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Adjust Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, add more arrowroot starch during cooking.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning and flavors based on personal preference throughout preparation.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dish fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
Complementing your Gluten Free Mongolian Beef with side dishes can enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options that work well together.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious; it mirrors the flavors of the beef while adding color.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Elevate plain rice with garlic for an aromatic side that pairs perfectly.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with savory beef.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and texture, making a great counterbalance to the dish.
- Miso Soup: A warm miso soup serves as a comforting starter before enjoying your main dish.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a light, gluten-free alternative to traditional noodles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Gluten Free Mongolian Beef, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using the wrong cut of beef: Choosing a tough cut can lead to chewy meat. Opt for flank steak or another tender cut to ensure your dish is flavorful and tender.
- Overcrowding the pan: If you add too much steak at once, it will steam instead of sear. Cook the beef in batches to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Neglecting seasoning: Skipping seasoning on the flank steak can result in bland meat. Always season both sides generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing the sauce can lead to a watery consistency. Allow it to simmer long enough until it thickens for optimal flavor.
- Forgetting to coat with arrowroot starch: This step is crucial for achieving a nice crust on the beef. Ensure each slice is well-coated before cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
- Consider portioning out individual servings for easy meals later on.
Reheating Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute increments until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Gluten Free Mongolian Beef:
Can I make Gluten Free Mongolian Beef AIP-compliant?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar for rice vinegar and omit black pepper while using compliant ingredients.
What can I serve with Gluten Free Mongolian Beef?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers of Gluten Free Mongolian Beef?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?
Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots based on your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten Free Mongolian Beef recipe is not only delicious but also customizable. You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust seasonings according to your taste. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal prep, allowing you to enjoy takeout-style goodness at home without gluten or soy. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!

Gluten Free Mongolian Beef
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Gluten Free Mongolian Beef, a homemade take on the classic dish that satisfies your cravings without compromising dietary needs. This quick and easy recipe features tender flank steak, vibrant broccoli, and a rich sauce made with coconut aminos instead of soy. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish can be served over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a wholesome meal. The combination of fresh ingredients and savory notes makes it a family favorite that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb flank steak
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tsp arrowroot starch (plus additional for coating)
- 1 1/2 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, beef broth, arrowroot starch, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to create the sauce; set aside.
- In a deep skillet heated with avocado oil, cook broccoli until tender; remove and set aside.
- Season flank steak with salt and pepper; slice into bite-sized pieces and coat with arrowroot starch.
- Cook beef in batches in the same skillet until crispy; remove from pan.
- Pour sauce into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits; simmer until thickened.
- Return beef and broccoli to the skillet; toss to coat before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the flank steak in coconut aminos for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Feel free to substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas based on preference. This dish reheats well and is perfect for meal prep.