Name: Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 small onion, sliced; 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional); 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening); 2 green onions, sliced; Sesame seeds, for garnish

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If you’re hunting for an irresistible weeknight dinner, let me introduce you to Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry. This vibrant skillet dish is a family favorite for a reason: it’s loaded with flavor, color, and crunch, and comes together in a flash. Each bite is a balance of savory beef, sweet-tender cabbage, and a whisper of ginger and garlic, all swirled through a glossy sauce. Whether you’re new to stir frying or a seasoned pro, this is one recipe you’ll want to make on repeat for both taste and convenience.

Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The true magic of this dish is in its simplicity—each ingredient has a starring role, coming together to create layers of flavor and texture. This is one of those recipes where every component matters and contributes to the overall delicious result.

Ground Beef: Rich and hearty, ground beef is the foundation of this stir fry, bringing depth and satisfying protein.
Sesame Oil: For irresistible nutty aroma and authentic Asian flavor, a splash of this oil is a must.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with warm, savory notes and a mouthwatering fragrance.
Fresh Ginger: Adds a subtle zing that lifts the whole stir fry; freshly grated makes all the difference!
Onion: Sliced onion brings sweetness and a little crunch, perfectly balancing the stronger flavors.
Green Cabbage: Crisp and colorful, cabbage is the star vegetable, providing volume and a delightful crunch.
Carrot: For a pop of color and natural sweetness—julienned or shredded carrots work beautifully.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This umami-rich sauce seasons everything perfectly without being overly salty.
Rice Vinegar: Brings a floral tang that perks up the rich flavors and adds brightness.
Hoisin Sauce (optional): For an extra layer of sweet-savory complexity, just a spoonful will do.
Cornstarch Slurry (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, this quick mix gives you that luscious texture.
Green Onions: Sliced fresh on top, they add color, crunch, and a subtle bite.
Sesame Seeds: Just a sprinkle creates a lovely finish—plus, they look gorgeous!

How to Make Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until it’s beautifully browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep things lighter and the flavors clear.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onion. Let these sauté for a few minutes; the kitchen will immediately smell incredible. The onion should start to soften and everything will become fragrant, which is your cue for the next step.

Step 3: Add Cabbage and Carrot

Now, stir in the thinly sliced cabbage and carrots. Cook this vibrant mix for about five to seven minutes, stirring often. You’re aiming for veggies that are tender yet still retain a pleasant, fresh crunch.

Step 4: Sauce and Simmer

Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce if you’re using it. Stir everything well to coat. Let it simmer gently for just a minute or two so the flavors meld and the sauce slightly soaks into the vegetables and beef.

Step 5: Thicken and Finish

If you love a glossy, clingy sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and stir for another minute. The sauce will thicken quickly. Remove the pan from the heat and scatter sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top for that finishing touch. Serve hot and savor every bite!

How to Serve Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Garnishes

For a fresh and tasty finishing touch, scatter extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds right before serving. If you like a little heat, a few chili flakes or a swipe of sriracha is fantastic for spice lovers. These garnishes are more than just decoration—they add freshness and crunch that put this dish over the top.

Side Dishes

This Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is terrific on its own, but it shines even brighter served over fluffy steamed rice, nutty brown rice, tender noodles, or low-carb cauliflower rice. To set a feast-worthy spread, consider simple steamed broccoli, quick pickled cucumbers, or a bowl of miso soup.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, you can stuff the stir fry into lettuce cups for a hands-on meal, or spoon it over crispy noodles for a fun texture contrast. Another idea: roll up leftovers inside rice paper for delicious homemade spring rolls the next day. There are so many ways to let Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry take center stage!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry stores like a dream. Just scoop any cooled leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It stays fresh and tasty for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches or a quick second dinner.

Freezing

If you want to make this dish even farther in advance, you can absolutely freeze it! Once cooled, portion the stir fry into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until everything is piping hot. If the dish looks a little dry, splash in a spoonful of water or extra soy sauce. The microwave is a fine option too, but just heat in short bursts and stir often so nothing dries out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While ground beef gives Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry its signature richness, ground turkey, chicken, or even pork work well if you want to switch things up without sacrificing flavor.

Is Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry gluten-free?

It easily can be. Just use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in place of traditional soy sauce, and be sure to check the labels on hoisin and other sauces for hidden gluten ingredients.

What’s the best way to slice the cabbage?

For even stir frying, aim for thin shreds using a sharp knife or a mandoline. The thinner the slices, the faster and more evenly the cabbage will cook while retaining just the right amount of crunch.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! This recipe is flexible. Bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms are wonderful additions. Just toss them in when you add the carrots and cabbage for a heartier and even more colorful Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry.

How can I make this dish spicy?

If you love a little kick, stir in some chili flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or diced fresh chili peppers along with the aromatics. Adjust the heat level to your taste and enjoy the fiery twist!

Final Thoughts

Few dinners are as rewarding, speedy, and satisfying as Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry. It’s one of those dishes that makes you look forward to dinner all day long. Give it a try in your kitchen—you might just discover a new go-to favorite that disappears as quickly as you can dish it up!

Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

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4.5 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of savory ground beef, crunchy vegetables, and a delicious sauce makes this stir fry a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Stir Fry:

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 small onion, sliced

Vegetables:

4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
1 large carrot, julienned or shredded

Sauce and Garnish:

¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Instructions

Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, cook ground beef in sesame oil until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
Sauté Aromatics: Add garlic, ginger, and onion; sauté until fragrant and onion softens.
Add Vegetables: Stir in cabbage and carrot; cook until tender-crisp.
Make Sauce: Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce; simmer.
Thicken (Optional): For a thicker sauce, stir in cornstarch slurry; cook until thickened.
Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, top with green onions and sesame seeds; serve hot.