Lean Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Quinoa

Ingredients

• lean beef strips 5 oz
• mixed bell peppers 1 cup
• broccoli florets 1 cup
• quinoa 1/2 cup
• soy sauce low sodium 1 tbsp
• olive oil 1 tbsp

Method

1. Prepare the quinoa. If you haven't cooked quinoa yet, rinse 1/4 cup dry quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness. Cook it according to package instructions (usually 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water, simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed). Set aside 1/2 cup cooked quinoa per serving.
   Tip: Rinsing quinoa well improves its flavor and texture.
2. Prepare the vegetables. Wash the bell peppers and broccoli thoroughly. Slice the bell peppers into thin strips and cut broccoli into small florets about 1-inch size for even cooking.
   Tip: Cut vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly.
3. Heat the pan and cook beef. Heat a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat the pan. Add the lean beef strips and stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Use a spatula to break apart any clumps if using ground beef.
   Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper browning.
4. Add vegetables and stir-fry. Add the sliced bell peppers and broccoli florets to the pan with the beef. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant and slightly crunchy.
   Tip: Keep stirring continuously to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
5. Add soy sauce and combine. Pour 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
   Tip: Add soy sauce gradually and taste to avoid over-salting.
6. Serve with quinoa. Divide the cooked quinoa evenly onto two plates. Top each with half of the beef and vegetable stir-fry mixture. Serve immediately while hot.
   Tip: Garnish with fresh herbs or sesame seeds if desired for extra flavor.

Pro tips

• Use a hot pan and cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming the beef.
• Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and better texture.