Diabetic-Friendly Thai Basil Beef: Low-Carb Meal Prep

Craving a flavorful and healthy meal that's also quick to prepare? Look no further than this delicious Basil Beef with Cauliflower Rice & Broccolini recipe! This dish expertly blends the vibrant tastes of Thai-inspired cuisine with the benefits of low-carb, keto-friendly ingredients. Forget heavy, carb-laden meals; this recipe delivers a satisfying and nutritious experience without compromising on flavour. The tender beef, infused with fragrant basil and a touch of spice, is perfectly complemented by the lightness of cauliflower rice and the nutritional punch of broccolini.

This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead. Its simple yet elegant approach makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the simple step-by-step instructions below!

Tools Needed

  • Frying pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Ingredients

  • Beef (flank steak)
  • Coconut oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 4 cloves
  • Red bell pepper: 1/2 medium
  • Onion: 1/2 medium
  • Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons
  • Brown sweetener: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
  • Basil leaves: 3/4 cups
  • Cilantro: optional
  • Cauliflower rice (frozen): 1 large bag
  • Broccolini: 350g
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Chili pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Beef and Vegetables

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Slice beef thinly and cook until lightly browned (medium rare). Remove from pan.
  • Lower heat to low. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Add sliced red bell pepper and diced onion. Cook until softened and almost caramelized.
Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Slice beef thinly and cook until lightly browned (medium rare). Remove from pan.Lower heat to low. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.Add sliced red bell pepper and diced onion. Cook until softened and almost caramelized.
Prepare the Beef and Vegetables

Step 2. Combine and Simmer the Beef Stir-fry

  • Return beef to the pan. Add soy sauce, brown sweetener (optional), and basil leaves. Stir until basil is wilted.
Return beef to the pan. Add soy sauce, brown sweetener (optional), and basil leaves. Stir until basil is wilted.
Combine and Simmer the Beef Stir-fry

Step 3. Prepare the Cauliflower Rice

  • Cook frozen cauliflower rice in a dry frying pan over low to medium heat until slightly crispy. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook frozen cauliflower rice in a dry frying pan over low to medium heat until slightly crispy. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Cauliflower Rice

Step 4. Prepare the Broccolini

  • In the same pan, sauté broccolini with olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili pepper flakes until tender.
In the same pan, sauté broccolini with olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili pepper flakes until tender.
Prepare the Broccolini

Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)

Tips

  • Use any preferred oil instead of coconut oil. Vegetable oil is not recommended.
  • If you prefer your beef more cooked, continue cooking after browning.
  • Adjust seasonings to your preference. You can use different sweeteners or omit them completely.
  • Microwave the meal prep bowl for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the beef with chicken or another protein?

Yes! Chicken breast, pork tenderloin, or even shrimp would work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

2. How can I make this recipe even lower in carbs?

Use a riced cauliflower with a lower moisture content (squeeze out excess moisture before cooking) and consider reducing the amount of added sauce slightly.

3. How long can I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving.


This Diabetic-Friendly Thai Basil Beef recipe offers a delicious and convenient way to manage your blood sugar while enjoying a satisfying meal. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and low-carb vegetables makes it a perfect addition to any diabetic-friendly diet. Enjoy this flavorful and healthy dish as a satisfying weeknight dinner or meal prep for a busy week!