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If you are craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, the Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender ground beef and crisp cabbage with a bright medley of garlic, ginger, and savory sauces, creating a dish that’s bursting with umami and subtle sweetness. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome yet exciting, and it’s surprisingly simple to make with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe has its own important role, from the rich sesame oil that infuses warmth and depth to the crunchy vegetables that add freshness and texture. Using fresh aromatics like garlic and ginger really elevates the flavor, making this stir fry both comforting and vibrant.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced: Brings a wonderful crunch and mild earthiness to balance the beef.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned: Adds a pop of color and natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Provides a nutty aroma that’s signature in Asian cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a pungent, savory kick that livens up every bite.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Infuses warmth and a slight zestiness to the dish.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: The salty, umami-rich backbone of the stir fry.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to brighten the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional): Provides a mildly sweet layer, perfect if you prefer a touch of indulgence.
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that awakens the palate.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Garnish the dish with mild oniony freshness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle for visual appeal and a delicate crunch.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essentials to season and balance the overall dish.
How to Make Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Sesame Oil
Start by warming the sesame oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok. This oil will serve as the flavor foundation, infusing the dish with its signature toasty, nutty aroma as you stir-fry the other ingredients.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the hot skillet and break it up with your spatula. Allow it to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and fragrant. This step builds the rich meaty flavor that pairs beautifully with the veggies. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the stir fry light and healthy.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Now stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about one minute until you can smell their wonderful fragrance. These aromatics are key to capturing the authentic taste of this Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe, adding brightness and warmth.
Step 4: Toss in Cabbage and Carrots
Time to add the thinly sliced cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir-fry everything together for 5 to 7 minutes, making sure the vegetables become tender yet retain a delightful crispness. This contrast of textures is what makes the dish so satisfying and enjoyable.
Step 5: Pour in the Sauces
Pour the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and, if you’re using it, the hoisin sauce into the skillet. Mix thoroughly to coat every piece of meat and vegetable. This sauce blend creates a harmonious balance of salty, tangy, and sweet notes that make the dish irresistibly tasty.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and add salt and black pepper as needed. These seasonings bring the flavors together and let you customize the dish to your liking.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the stir fry from heat, then sprinkle on fresh chopped green onions and sesame seeds. These final touches add color, a fresh bite, and subtle crunch, making every mouthful a delight.
How to Serve Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only brightens the dish visually but also adds layers of texture and freshness. For a bit of extra zing, you can drizzle a little additional sesame oil or a squirt of fresh lime juice just before serving.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy brown rice to soak up every last bit of the sauce. You could also serve it alongside simple vegetable dumplings or add a crunchy cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe in lettuce cups for a light, hand-held option. Alternatively, pile it over cooked noodles or into a warm tortilla for an Asian fusion wrap that’s bound to impress your family or guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover stir fry in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The beef will stay tender and the vegetables maintain a nice bite if stored properly, making it a perfect next-day meal prep option.
Freezing
If you want to save this for longer, freezing is a great choice. Portion the stir fry into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture of the cabbage might soften a bit once thawed, but the flavors remain delicious.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If it seems a bit dry, splash in a small amount of water or soy sauce to restore moisture and enhance the taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the classic choice, ground pork, turkey, or chicken all work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and enjoy the variations in flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
This recipe is mild by default, but adding crushed red pepper flakes is a simple way to add heat. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste or omit it altogether for a gentle flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute and make sure the hoisin sauce you choose is gluten-free or simply leave it out. This keeps all the flavors intact while catering to gluten-free diets.
What’s the best way to slice the cabbage?
Thinly slicing the cabbage ensures it cooks quickly and retains a nice crunch. Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for even, thin strips that blend beautifully with the other ingredients.
Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?
Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn are excellent additions that add more color and texture. Just add them according to their cooking times to maintain crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out: simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s quick enough for busy evenings yet impressive enough to serve on special occasions. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular in your cooking rotation, bringing ease and joy to your table.
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Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal combining lean ground beef with crisp cabbage and carrots, infused with garlic, ginger, and a savory soy-based sauce. It’s a nutritious, protein-packed dish perfect for a satisfying dinner that’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
Vegetables
- 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
Oils & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the beef and vegetables.
- Cook the beef: Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the dish lean.
- Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant, which enhances the flavor base.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the sliced cabbage and julienned carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until they become tender but remain crisp, ensuring a pleasing texture.
- Add sauces: Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce if using. Stir thoroughly to coat the beef and vegetables evenly with the savory sauce.
- Season: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste, adjusting the spice and seasoning level to your preference.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving to add freshness and a nutty crunch.
Notes
- To keep this dish lean, use lean ground beef and drain excess fat while cooking.
- Hoisin sauce is optional but adds a nice sweetness; omit for a less sweet dish.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness.
- This stir fry is excellent served over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Fresh ginger and garlic are key for authentic flavor; avoid substituting with powders.
