(Serves 4)
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about ½ medium head)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for added color and crunch)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth; use a vegetarian alternative if needed)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken the sauce)
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Heat
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the hot skillet and cook until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies
- In the same skillet, add the onion , garlic , and ginger . Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cabbage and bell pepper (if using) and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, or until the cabbage softens slightly but still retains some crunch.
4. Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, and cornstarch slurry .
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the veggies. Pour the sauce over the mixture and toss everything together. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables evenly.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the stir fry to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds , sliced green onions , and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic : These aromatics elevate the dish with authentic, restaurant-quality flavor.
- Add More Veggies : Feel free to toss in carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition and variety.
- Adjust the Sauce : Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving—add more soy sauce for saltiness, rice vinegar for tang, or sriracha for heat.
- Serve Over Rice or Noodles : Pair this stir fry with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed white or brown rice for a classic combination.
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- A side of miso soup or a simple cucumber salad for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is proof that nutritious meals can be just as flavorful and satisfying as their indulgent counterparts. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So grab your skillet, chop up those veggies, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this stir fry is a winner every time. 🥢🥬✨