If you’re craving bold flavors without the carbs, this Keto Mongolian Beef will hit the spot. Inspired by classic Asian takeout but reimagined for a low-carb lifestyle, this dish features tender, thinly sliced flank steak seared to perfection, tossed in a rich soy-ginger-garlic sauce, and finished with scallions and sesame seeds. At just 5.7g net carbs per serving, it's perfect for weeknight dinners that don’t compromise on taste or nutrition.
Why Mongolian Beef Works for Keto
Traditional Mongolian beef is often loaded with sugar and served with high-carb rice or noodles. This keto-friendly version swaps sugar-laden sauces for low-sodium soy sauce, red boat fish sauce, and natural spices while maintaining that deep umami flavor. Arrowroot starch is used instead of cornstarch for a light coating, and avocado oil ensures healthy fats for fuel. With 34g of protein and only 5.7g of carbs per serving, this dish aligns perfectly with keto macros.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. grass-fed flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
- 2 tsp. arrowroot starch
- Salt, to taste
- ¼ cup avocado oil
- 1 piece fresh ginger, grated
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup water
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp. red boat fish sauce
- 3 scallions, sliced
- 1 tsp. sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss flank steak slices with arrowroot starch and salt until evenly coated.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook steak slices in batches, about 1½ minutes per side. Transfer to a plate using a slotted spoon.
- Drain excess oil from skillet, leaving about 1 tbsp. behind.
- Add ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add water, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir to combine.
- Return cooked steak to the pan and simmer for 3 minutes to thicken the sauce and coat the meat.
- Stir in sliced scallions and simmer for 2 additional minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 266
- Net Carbohydrates: 5.7 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Total Fats: 11.7 g
- Sugars: 1.7 g
- Sodium: 1350 mg
- Fiber: 1.2 g
*Nutrition values may vary slightly depending on ingredient brands.
Health Benefits of This Keto Mongolian Beef
Grass-fed beef offers more omega-3s and antioxidants than conventional meat. Garlic and ginger bring potent anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting compounds, while red pepper flakes may help boost metabolism. The healthy fats from avocado oil make it an ideal cooking fat for keto meals, ensuring nutrient absorption and satiety.
Serving Tips
- Serve with cauliflower rice or zoodles to keep it low-carb.
- Garnish with extra scallions or chili oil for added flavor.
- Leftovers store well for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
More Keto Asian-Inspired Recipes?
This is just one of many delicious keto-friendly takes on popular Asian cuisine. Want more? Grab our free recipe collection packed with low-carb favorites.