A Flavorful, One-Pan Dinner in 30 Minutes
This Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, protein-packed dish that layers savory beef, crisp cabbage, and bold Asian flavors into one satisfying meal. With lean beef, minimal oil, and a tangy-sweet sauce, it’s a lighter take on classic stir fry comfort—perfect for busy cooks who still crave depth of flavor.
A weeknight staple that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥩 Lean Beef Base: High in protein, low in fat—ideal for healthy yet hearty meals.
- 🥬 Crispy Cabbage Crunch: Adds texture and fiber without weighing you down.
- 🧄 Garlic-Ginger Pop: A fragrant foundation that boosts umami without extra calories.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—no fancy tools or techniques needed.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or lunch boxes.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher – or substitute with ground turkey or tofu)
- 1 small green cabbage , thinly sliced (or 4 cups pre-shredded cabbage)
- 1 large carrot , julienned or shredded (optional – adds sweetness and color)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (or olive oil for lighter version)
- 2 cloves garlic , minced (or 1 tsp garlic paste)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger , grated (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for milder taste)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional – for sweetness and depth)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes , to taste (optional – for heat)
For Serving (Optional):
- 1–2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for crunch and nutty finish)
- 2–3 green onions , chopped (for freshness and color)
- Cooked brown rice, quinoa, or noodles (to soak up the sauce)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef , breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in garlic and ginger , cooking for 1 minute until fragrant and golden.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Veggies
Add shredded cabbage and carrot to the pan.
Stir fry for 5–7 minutes , tossing occasionally, until cabbage softens slightly but retains a bit of crunch.
Step 4: Add the Sauces
Pour in:
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Hoisin sauce (if using)
Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve Warm
Transfer to a serving plate and top with:
- Chopped green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or on its own for a low-carb option.
Each bite brings together:
- Savory, seasoned beef pockets
- Crisp, sweet cabbage and carrots
- Bold, tangy soy-rice vinegar sauce
- And that classic Asian-inspired finish
Tips for Success:
- 🥢 Use Cold Hands: Helps crumble beef without sticking.
- 🧈 Oil Hack: Use just enough oil to coat the pan—avoid greasy stir fries.
- 🧁 Hoisin Swap: Substitute with honey or maple syrup for a lighter version.
- 🥦 Add More Veggies: Stir in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra crunch.
- ❄️ Meal Prep Magic: Keeps well refrigerated for 3–4 days—reheat with a splash of water or broth.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a full meal.
- Great in lettuce wraps, over fried rice, or with a side of egg rolls.
- Ideal with a cold drink like iced tea, beer, or lemon water.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 – approximate):
(With regular beef and soy sauce – per serving)
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~8g
This Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry proves that healthy meals don’t have to be boring to be satisfying. With its tender beef, crisp cabbage, and bold Asian flavors—it’s a must-cook for lovers of quick, comforting dishes.
