This vibrant stir fry features juicy ground beef and crunchy cabbage, giving you a delicious and healthy meal! It’s quick to make and packed with flavor that everyone will love.
Making this dish is super easy for busy nights. Just brown the beef, toss in the cabbage, and your meal is ready in no time. Comfort food at its finest!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef (90% lean) keeps the dish lighter. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a different flavor and even fewer calories.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here, adding crunch and nutrition. If you can’t find it, try using Napa cabbage or even bok choy for a slightly different texture. They work well in stir-fries too!
Carrots: Though optional, carrots add color and natural sweetness. You can leave them out or replace them with bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added vitamins.
Sauces: Low-sodium soy sauce helps keep sodium levels in check. If you want a gluten-free option, try tamari instead. For the oyster sauce, you can omit it if you’re looking for a vegan or vegetarian option and still have plenty of flavor from other ingredients.
What’s the Best Way to Stir Fry Without Overcooking?
Stir frying is all about high heat and quick cooking. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding oil. This helps prevent sticking.
- Add ingredients in the order that they need the longest to cook. Start with aromatics (garlic, ginger), then beef, followed by cabbage.
- Keep stirring constantly! This allows the ingredients to cook evenly and prevents burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re making a big batch, consider dividing it into two stir-fries.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll keep your veggies crisp and your beef perfectly cooked! Enjoy your cooking!
Healthy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (preferably 90% lean)
- 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced (optional for color and sweetness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for deeper flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or other neutral cooking oil)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stir fry takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 10 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weekday dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough that the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
2. Sauté Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the chopped green onions to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until everything is fragrant and aromatic.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Sauté until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season it with a pinch of salt and black pepper as it cooks.
4. Flavor It Up:
Stir in the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and rice vinegar. Mix it all together so that the beef is well-coated with the saucy goodness.
5. Add the Veggies:
Next, toss in the sliced cabbage and carrots (if you’re including them). Stir fry everything together for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still a bit crisp. Keep stirring to ensure an even cook!
6. Finish with Flavor:
Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry and sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Stir everything well one last time.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste the stir fry! Adjust any seasoning if needed, adding more soy sauce or salt as you see fit.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with the green parts of the chopped green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you’d like. Your delicious stir fry is ready!
9. Enjoy:
Serve the stir fry hot over steamed rice or your favorite noodles for a complete meal.
This healthy Chinese ground beef and cabbage stir fry is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal quickly. Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a great choice for any night of the week. Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ for Healthy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Can I Use Different Protein in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for tofu which should be cooked until slightly crispy for extra texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce to revive it!
Can I Modify the Spice Level?
Yes! You can adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. For a milder dish, reduce the amount or omit them entirely. If you like it spicier, consider adding a splash of sriracha or crushed chili paste during the cooking process.
Is This Recipe Freezable?
Yes, you can freeze the stir fry! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.
