For those following a ketogenic diet, steak is a fantastic option. It's naturally low in carbs, high in protein, and incredibly versatile. This article explores a variety of keto-friendly steak recipes, from Asian-inspired stir-fries to classic grilled dishes, providing options for every palate and skill level.
Keto Chinese Pepper Steak
Craving Chinese takeout but sticking to your keto goals? This Easy Chinese Pepper Steak delivers all the flavor of the classic dish without the added sugar and starch. With only 3.4g net carbs per serving, it's a family-friendly meal that's quick and easy to prepare.
Key Ingredients and Techniques
- Steak: Flank steak or top sirloin are recommended, sliced thinly against the grain.
- Velveting: This traditional Chinese technique involves tossing the meat with baking soda to tenderize it. The steak is coated with baking soda for about 15 minutes, then rinsed thoroughly. This step significantly improves the texture of the steak.
- Peppers and Onions: Red and green bell peppers add color and flavor, while a small amount of onion (1/4 of a large onion) provides flavor without adding too many carbs.
- Tamari: A gluten-free soy sauce alternative with more flavor and fewer carbs than coconut aminos.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: Adds a spicy kick with zero carbs. Sriracha can be used as a substitute, but it does contain a small amount of carbs.
- Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil enhances the flavor of the stir-fry sauce.
- Glucomannan: Used to thicken the sauce. Xanthan gum can also be used.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the sauce: Whisk together all of the sauce ingredients and set aside.
- Tenderize the beef: In a large bowl, toss the steak slices with the baking soda to coat. Let stand 15 minutes to tenderize, then rinse thoroughly with water.
- Stir fry the beef: In a large skillet or wok over medium high heat, add 1 tablespoon of the oil. Add slices of meat in a single layer and sear quickly, about 1 minute on each side (depending on how thinly you sliced it). Remove to a plate and repeat with more oil and more meat until all the meat has been cooked to your liking.
- Stir fry the vegetables: Add the vegetables to the pan and stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes, until becoming tender.
- Put it together: Add the meat and any accumulated juices back into the pan. Stir in the sauce and cook until thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper (and more chili garlic sauce if you like!). Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Tips for Success
- Slice the steak thinly: Partially freezing the steak makes it easier to slice thinly.
- Sear the steak in batches: This ensures even cooking and a better sear on each piece.
- Thicken the sauce if needed: If the sauce is too thin, push the meat and vegetables to one side of the pan and whisk in another quarter teaspoon of glucomannan or xanthan gum.
Keto Steak with Garlic Butter Mushrooms
This recipe combines a perfectly cooked steak with flavorful garlic butter mushrooms, making it a satisfying and decadent keto meal.
Why This Recipe Works
Steak is naturally low-carb, and this recipe pairs it with garlic butter mushrooms, a delicious and keto-friendly alternative to traditional sides like garlic bread or fries. The dish is also healthy, providing protein, minerals, and heart-healthy benefits from garlic.
Key Ingredients
- Steak: Top sirloin is a lean and flavorful cut.
- Mushrooms: Provide fiber, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium and copper.
- Garlic: Adds flavor and offers heart-healthy benefits.
- Ghee: Used for its delicious flavor and ability to withstand high heat.
Grilling Instructions
- Prepare the steak: Preheat your grill to high heat. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, combine 4 teaspoons of ghee and 1 teaspoon of fresh minced garlic, then spread half of the mixture all over one side of the steak. Sprinkle generously with salt.
- Grill the steak: When the grill is hot, place the steak on the grill, butter side-down, and cook for 4-5 minutes. Rub the remaining ghee mixture all over the top side, flip the steak, and cook until your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from heat, cover, and let it rest while the mushrooms cook.
- Prepare the mushrooms: Combine the mushrooms, 2 teaspoons melted ghee, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
- Grill the mushrooms: Place two squares of foil on top of each other (shiny side inwards) and place the mushrooms in the center in a single layer. Wrap the sides up tightly to make a packet. Place the mushroom packet on the hot grill, so the folds of the packet are facing up, and grill for 5 minutes. Flip and grill another 4-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender.
Tips for a Perfect Steak
- Bring the steak to room temperature: This ensures even cooking.
- Salt the steak: Season the steak with salt before grilling.
- Grill on indirect heat: This prevents the ghee from catching fire.
- Let the steak rest: Allow the steak to rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Keto Steak With Garlic Butter Mushrooms with low-carb sides such as Low-Carb Potato Salad With Cauliflower, Easy Sautéed Fresh Green Beans With Crispy Prosciutto, Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes With 5 Ingredients, or Low-Carb Keto Cucumber Salad.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Other Keto Steak Recipe Ideas
Beyond the featured recipes, here are some other keto-friendly steak dishes to explore:
- Keto Steak Fajitas: Use skirt steak marinated in avocado oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper. Serve with bell peppers, onions, and Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice or Cabbage Rice.
- Keto Garlic Butter Steak Bites: Quick and easy steak bites made with sirloin steak, garlic butter, and parsley. Serve with low-carb veggies, salad, or cauliflower mash.
- Steak and Eggs: A simple and satisfying keto breakfast or dinner option. Use any cut of steak you like, such as sirloin or ribeye, and cook it in a heavy-bottomed skillet with butter. Serve with fried or scrambled eggs.
- Caprese Steak: A perfectly cooked steak topped with the flavors of a Caprese salad.
- Spicy Thai Beef Salad: A steak and salad combination with a spicy Thai flavor.
- Sizzling Steak Fajitas: Recreate the restaurant experience at home with sizzling steak fajitas.
- London Broil: A classic steak dish.
- Classic Beef and Broccoli: A healthy, homemade version of a Chinese takeout favorite.
- Air Fryer Steak: A perfectly seared steak cooked in an air fryer.
- Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: Your favorite sandwich without the carbs.
- Flank Steak with Chimichurri: A flavorful and quick 20-minute meal.
- Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps: Enjoy the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a low-carb lettuce wrap.
- Reverse Sear Steak: Try this technique for a perfectly cooked steak.
- Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak: The bright and acidic flavors balance out the steak.
- Steak au Poivre: Pair this classic steak with cauliflower waffles for a keto-friendly meal.
- Baked Stuffed Peppers: While not technically steak, this is a great recipe for stuffed peppers.
General Tips for Cooking Steak
- Choose the right cut: Consider your budget and cooking method when selecting a cut of steak.
- Season generously: Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to experiment with other seasonings.
- Use a hot pan or grill: This creates a good sear and helps to lock in the juices.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the steak in batches to ensure even browning.
- Let the steak rest: Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
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