Name: Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or preferred cooking oil); 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated; 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 8 cups); 1/2 cup shredded carrot; Salt and pepper, to taste; Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional); 1/2 cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Why I Love This Recipe

I appreciate this recipe for its simplicity and versatility. The combination of ground beef and cabbage is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients. The savory sauce, infused with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil, brings everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to various dietary preferences, making it a staple in my meal rotation.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon avocado oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
1 medium onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
1 pound lean ground beef
1 head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 8 cups)
1/2 cup shredded carrot
Salt and pepper, to taste
Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

For the Sauce:

1/2 cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Directions

In a small bowl, I whisk together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes to create the sauce. I set this aside.
I heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. I add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
I stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
I add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. I cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
I incorporate the sliced cabbage and shredded carrot into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the beef mixture.
I pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. I continue to cook for another 5 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
I season with salt and pepper to taste. Before serving, I garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is 15 minutes, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Protein Swap: I sometimes substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Add-ins: Adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas enhances the nutritional value and adds variety.
Spice Level: For a spicier kick, I increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha.
Low-Carb Option: Serving this stir fry over cauliflower rice keeps it low in carbohydrates while adding extra vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or I microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Yes, using pre-shredded cabbage saves time and works well in this recipe. I ensure it’s fresh and not overly dry for the best texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. I often prepare this stir fry in advance and portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While I can freeze the stir fry, I find that the texture of the cabbage changes upon thawing. For best results, I consume it within a few days of preparation.

What can I serve with this stir fry?

I like to serve it over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. It’s also delicious wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

By using coconut aminos or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, I ensure the stir fry remains gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is a flavorful and nutritious dish that I enjoy making regularly. Its quick preparation and adaptability to various dietary needs make it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. I hope you find it as satisfying and convenient as I do.