Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat)

Pf Chang’s Copycat Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that brings Asian flavors right into your home. This Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat) recipe delivers tender beef coated in a sweet and savory sauce with a subtle kick of spice, making it perfect for any dinner gathering or weeknight meal. Enjoy the convenience of this keto-friendly recipe that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the beef.
• Keto-Friendly: Low in carbs and rich in protein, this dish fits seamlessly into your ketogenic lifestyle.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use flank steak or flatiron steak based on your preference, making it customizable.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish over cauliflower rice or steamed veggies for a beautiful and nutritious meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet provides even heat distribution, ensuring the beef cooks perfectly without burning.
• Cutting board: Helps keep your workspace organized while allowing for safe chopping of ingredients.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your sauce.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 1 Tablespoon avocado oil
• 2 teaspoons minced ginger
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 Cup soy sauce or coconut aminos
• 1/2 cup water
• 3/4 cup sugar-free granulated sweetener

For the Beef

• 1 1/2 pounds flank steak or flatiron steak
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For Garnish

• 5 stems green onions, cut diagonal into 2-inch pieces

For Thickening

• 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum

How to Make Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients. Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Allow it to become hot but not smoking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced ginger and garlic to the skillet. Stir them for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.

Step 4: Add Sauce Ingredients

Pour in soy sauce (or coconut aminos), water, and sugar-free sweetener. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Cook the Beef

Add sliced beef to the skillet. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to coat the beef evenly with the sauce.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle xanthan gum over the mixture while stirring continuously. This will help thicken your sauce beautifully in just a minute or two.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and stir in red pepper flakes and green onions. Serve immediately over cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for an added touch of nutrition!

How to Serve Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat)

Serving Easy Keto Mongolian Beef is all about enhancing the dish’s flavors and presentation. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal experience.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice provides a low-carb alternative that complements the beef perfectly. It’s easy to prepare by simply grating cauliflower and sautéing it in a bit of oil.

With Steamed Broccoli

• Steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and crunch to your plate. It balances the richness of the beef while offering essential nutrients.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the beef in crispy lettuce leaves for a fun, hand-held meal. This option keeps it light and adds a refreshing crunch.

On Zucchini Noodles

• Zucchini noodles make a great pasta substitute. Toss them with the beef and sauce for a delicious, low-carb delight.

Topped with Sliced Green Onions

• Fresh green onions sprinkled on top add flavor and visual appeal. They enhance the dish’s overall freshness.

How to Perfect Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat)

Perfecting your Easy Keto Mongolian Beef is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure you create a flavorful dish every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh flank steak or flatiron steak for tenderness and rich flavor. Marbling helps keep the meat juicy during cooking.

• Marinate Early: Allow your beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances flavor absorption and improves tenderness.

• Cook at High Heat: Use high heat when cooking to quickly sear the beef. This creates a nice crust while keeping the inside tender.

• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar-free sweetener to suit your taste preferences. Some may prefer it sweeter or less sweet.

• Thicken Your Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, mix xanthan gum with water before adding it to avoid clumps. This will help achieve that perfect glaze.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat)

Complementing your Easy Keto Mongolian Beef with suitable side dishes can transform your meal into something special. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms in garlic butter for an earthy side that pairs well with beef.

2. Spicy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and chili flakes adds a nice contrast.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil make for a nutritious accompaniment.

4. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brings brightness to your plate.

5. Creamed Spinach: A rich, creamy side dish that offers comfort while remaining keto-friendly.

6. Riced Broccoli: Similar to cauliflower rice but with broccoli; it’s an excellent way to add greens into your meal without extra carbs.

7. Stir-Fried Snow Peas: Quick stir-fried snow peas retain their crispness, providing a delightful crunch alongside your beef.

8. Zesty Avocado Salad: A simple salad with avocado cubes, lime juice, and cilantro adds creaminess and freshness that complements the flavors of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat), it’s common to encounter a few pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cut of beef: Selecting a tough cut can lead to chewy meat. Always use flank steak or flatiron steak for tenderness.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking for too long can dry out the meat. Aim for a quick sear on high heat to retain moisture and flavor.
• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness. Allow your beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
• Not adjusting sweetener levels: Overdoing it with sweeteners can overpower the dish. Start with less and adjust according to taste.
• Forgetting to incorporate veggies: While this recipe focuses on beef, adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers can boost nutrition and color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat)

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place beef in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid, and reheat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat):

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken breast or thighs for beef in this recipe while keeping the flavors intact.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos, this Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat) is completely gluten-free.

How do I make it spicier?

To increase the heat, add more red pepper flakes or include sliced fresh chili peppers during the cooking process.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.

What can I serve with Easy Keto Mongolian Beef?

This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that stays within keto guidelines.

Final Thoughts

Easy Keto Mongolian Beef (PF Chang’s Copycat) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding various vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a flavorful meal right at home!