Beef bulgogi (Korean style beef)

If you're looking for a simple, delicious, and deeply nourishing meal that aligns with a gluten-free lifestyle and supports women’s health, this Korean-inspired beef bowl is for you.

This dish checks all the boxes: it's full of flavor, rich in protein, naturally gluten-free, and easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. It's also a beautiful example of how you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to support your body, your hormones, and your energy levels.

RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 lbs thinly sliced beef (ribeye, NY strip, or your preferred cut)

For the Marinade:

• 1 small apple

• 1 small red onion

• 5 Tbsp gluten-free soy sauce (or coconut aminos)

• 3 Tbsp honey

• 2 Tbsp rice vinegar

• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

• 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

To Serve:

• Steamed white rice

• Kimchi

• Sliced cucumber tossed with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: If you can’t find pre-sliced beef, freeze your chosen cut (ribeye or NY steak work well) for easier slicing. Once partially frozen, slice it thinly across the grain.

2. Make the marinade: Add the apple, onion, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, pepper, sesame oil, and garlic powder to a blender. Blend until smooth.

3. Marinate the beef: Place the sliced beef in a large bowl, pour the marinade over, and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to let the flavors absorb.

4. Cook the beef: Heat a large skillet over high heat until hot. Add the marinated beef in batches and cook quickly, flipping often. Let it brown slightly for the best flavor.

5. Serve: Plate the beef with warm rice, spicy kimchi, and sesame-dressed cucumber slices. Enjoy hot!

Why This Meal Supports Women’s Health

• Protein-Packed for Muscle & Hormone Support:
  With over 40 grams of protein per serving (from 2 lbs of beef divided among 4 servings), this dish helps stabilize blood sugar, support lean muscle mass, and aid in hormone production. Protein is essential for women, especially if you're working on balancing hormones, managing stress, or recovering from workouts.

• Gluten-Free by Design: Every ingredient in this recipe is naturally gluten-free—no guesswork needed. We use gluten-free soy sauce (or coconut aminos if preferred), ensuring this dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac. Remember: conventional soy sauce contains wheat, so always choose wisely.

• Quick & Easy to Prepare: No time? No problem. With just a few minutes of prep and an hour of marinating, this beef cooks in under 10 minutes. It’s perfect for busy moms, professionals, or anyone who wants real food fast.

• Full of Flavor Without the Guilt: The marinade—a sweet and tangy blend of apple, onion, honey, sesame oil, and vinegar—infuses the beef with bold flavor that tastes indulgent but is actually anti-inflammatory and nourishing. There’s no refined sugar, and you control the ingredients.

• Balanced with Gut-Friendly and Fresh Sides:
  Serving the beef with steamed white rice, probiotic-rich kimchi, and crisp cucumbers tossed in sesame oil brings fiber, healthy fats, beneficial bacteria, and texture. It’s a complete meal that leaves you satisfied, not sluggish.

This bowl is a staple in my kitchen because it reminds me that eating healthy doesn’t have to be restrictive or boring. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and adaptable—and it shows that a gluten-free, whole food lifestyle is absolutely delicious and doable. Let food be your nourishment and your joy.

As usual, these are my thoughts and ideas, not medical advice. You are encouraged to create your own recipes or search for some suited to your needs. I am just sharing my recipes, hoping that I can inspire some of you to make healthier food choices.

Please remember that we all have different nutritional needs and that food affects us differently. If you are not sure which foods are best for you, reach out for a free phone consultation. 

In good health,

Ioana