Learned this from my Chinese friend and we’ve been making it ever since!
Chinese Cabbage & Beef Stir Fry
This Low Carb Chinese Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Savory ground beef is combined with tender-crisp Chinese cabbage, aromatic garlic and ginger, and a simple blend of soy sauce and sesame oil for a satisfying dish packed with flavor. With minimal preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s an excellent option for a light yet filling dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Chinese cabbage (Napa cabbage), sliced | 1 medium head |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1 tbsp |
| Green onions, sliced | 2 |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks.
Tip: Allow portions of the beef to remain undisturbed briefly while cooking to develop additional flavor and light browning.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet.
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Stir in the sliced Chinese cabbage and continue cooking for approximately 5 minutes, until it begins to soften.
Tip: Avoid overcooking the cabbage so it retains some texture and freshness.
Step 4: Season the Stir Fry
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Add the red pepper flakes if using.
Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the cabbage to become tender.
Remove from the heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy on its own for a low-carb meal.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for extra volume.
- Pair with steamed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad.
- Add extra red pepper flakes for additional heat.
This easy stir fry delivers a delicious combination of savory beef, tender cabbage, and aromatic seasonings, making it a dependable recipe for any night of the week.
