Sesame Free Beef and Asparagus Stir-Fry
Stir-fry nights are usually a minefield when you're avoiding sesame, since traditional sauces and oils almost always sneak it in somewhere. This version sidesteps the problem entirely by building its savory depth from coconut aminos, fresh ginger, and a bright hit of apple cider vinegar — no sesame oil, no sesame seeds, no compromise on flavor. The result is a glossy, umami-rich sauce that clings to every piece of seared beef and crisp-tender asparagus in the pan. Flank steak gets a quick marinade before hitting a screaming-hot skillet, which means you get that satisfying caramelized crust without needing a restaurant wok. Garlic and scallions go in next, filling the kitchen with an aroma that makes it genuinely hard to wait for the final toss. A pinch of turmeric in the sauce adds a subtle warmth and a gorgeous golden hue that makes the whole dish look as good as it tastes. Scatter some fresh cilantro on top and dinner is done — fast, clean, and completely safe to dig into.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the beef
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tsp arrowroot starch
- ½ tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
For the sauce
- 3 tbsp coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp arrowroot starch
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
For the stir-fry
- 1 lb asparagus, woody ends snapped off, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 3 scallions, white and light green parts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ tsp salt, plus more to taste
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with 2 tbsp coconut aminos, 1 tsp arrowroot starch, and 1/2 tsp grated ginger. Toss to coat evenly and let the beef marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: 3 tbsp coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp arrowroot starch, 1 tsp grated ginger, and turmeric until the starch is fully dissolved. Set aside.
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