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Quick Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

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4.9 from 86 reviews

A quick and flavorful one-pan beef and cabbage stir-fry recipe that combines tender ground beef with fresh vegetables and a savory sesame-soy sauce. Perfect for a nutritious lunch, this dish is easy to prepare and can be served over rice or a low-carb alternative.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • 2 tsp light brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) tamari or gluten-free soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or more to taste)
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) water

For the Stir Fry:

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1/2 small green cabbage, finely shredded (approximately 3 cups)
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced into thin matchsticks
  • 4 scallions, thinly chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil, avocado oil, or any neutral oil
  • 1 tbsp freshly minced ginger, peeled
  • 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine toasted sesame oil, tamari or gluten-free soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, brown sugar or alternative sweetener, ground black pepper, and toasted sesame seeds if using. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are well mixed. Set aside.
  2. Cook the beef and aromatics: Heat a large sauté pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chosen oil, then immediately add the chopped garlic, minced ginger, and ground beef. Stir continuously, breaking apart the meat, until the beef is fully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add the vegetables: Incorporate the finely shredded cabbage and carrot matchsticks into the pan with the cooked beef. Stir and cook for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while maintaining some crunch.
  4. Combine with the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the ingredients evenly. Add the sliced scallions and increase the heat slightly. Continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and absorb into the mixture.
  5. Serve: Remove the pan from heat and serve immediately. This dish pairs well alone or served over steamed rice, noodles, cauliflower rice, or spiralized zucchini as a lower-carb alternative.

Notes

  • You can substitute tamari with regular soy sauce if gluten is not a concern.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup according to taste.
  • For a spicier version, add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the beef.
  • This recipe is versatile; try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety.
  • Use a non-stick skillet for easier cooking and cleaning.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.