Coconut Axis with Brown Rice, Peas, Carrots and Broccoli - Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free with Vegetarian Suggestions

Axis in Coconut Milk with Brown Rice, Peas, Carrots and Broccoli
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free with Vegetarian Suggestions
Adapted from Stir-Fried Brown Rice with Sliced Sirloin Steak and Peas: Deliciously Organic

1 cup wild rice or brown rice, cooked (cook with 1 Tbsp coconut oil for more flavor), Texmati is a great Texas brand available at most grocery stores

coconut milk

8 oz. axis (we had some from a recent hunting trip), venison or sirloin steak, thinly sliced ***Use portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option

1 sweet onion or shallot

one bunch of swiss chard or spinach, torn into bite sized pieces, Johnson's Backyard Garden at Wednesday and Saturday Farmers' Markets or CSA membership

one bag frozen peas

2-3 carrots, Johnson's Backyard Garden at Wednesday and Saturday Farmers' Markets or CSA membership

1/2 head of broccoli or a 1/2 bag of broccoli shoots, cut into small florets, Johnson's Backyard Garden at Wednesday and Saturday Farmers' Markets or CSA membership

1-2 green garlic bulbs or 2 cloves of garlic, Milagro Farms at Wednesday and Saturday Farmers' Markets 

1/4 cup chopped cilantro
ginger, minced (optional)

hot chili or pepper sauce or lime for serving (optional)

1. Heat enough coconut milk to line the bottom of a saute pan on medium heat. Season axis, sirloin or mushroom slices with salt and pepper. 
2. Add axis, sirloin slices or mushroom slices and cook until browned on both sides. Axis is a lean meat, so do not overcook. Transfer to a plate.
3. Rinse the saute pan and add more coconut milk (or use the remaining coconut milk and add a little more) then add onions or shallots and garlic and cook on medium heat until carmelized. 
4. Add peas, carrots, broccoli and mix in with coconut milk. Add chard or spinach and cover until wilted. 
5. Make a well in the center of the pan and add garlic and ginger (if desired) and cook until fragrant. 
6. Stir with the rest of the vegetables. Add rice to warm or warm separately. 
7. On the plate add a scoop of rice layered with vegetables, sliced axis, sirloin or portobellos then top with cilantro, salt & pepper, soy sauce or pepper sauce and lime.