Introduction
In the mood for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner that’s bursting with bold Asian flavors? Look no further than this Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry. It’s the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, nourishing, and versatile. Packed with lean protein, crunchy vegetables, and umami-rich seasonings, this stir fry is an ideal go-to for anyone craving a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a last-minute dinner, this one-pan dish is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about this Chinese-inspired stir fry. First, it’s incredibly fast—you can have dinner on the table in just 25 minutes. It’s also a nutrient-packed option, thanks to the combination of lean ground beef, fresh cabbage, carrots, and aromatic herbs and spices. The stir-frying method keeps the veggies crisp and vibrant while allowing the beef to absorb all the savory-sweet flavors of soy sauce, sesame oil, and hoisin.
Even better? This dish is naturally low-carb and high in protein, making it suitable for a variety of dietary lifestyles. It’s also meal-prep friendly—make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week with minimal fuss. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is foolproof and forgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Necessary Tools
To make this easy skillet dinner, you’ll need:
- Large skillet or wok
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Grater (for fresh ginger)
- Serving bowls or plates
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are some easy swaps and additions:
- Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.
- Veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
- Sauces: Replace hoisin with oyster sauce or a splash of maple syrup and a touch of miso for depth.
- Toppings: Garnish with crushed peanuts, cashews, or a drizzle of chili crisp for extra texture and flavor.
- Grains: Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even soba noodles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: Add sesame oil to a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Beef: Add ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sauté the Veggies: Toss in sliced cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, or until just tender.
- Add the Sauce: Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin (if using). Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Season: Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prep everything first: Stir-frying is fast, so have your ingredients sliced and ready before you begin.
- Use high heat: A hot skillet helps sear the beef and keep the veggies crisp.
- Drain the beef well: To avoid greasy stir fry, remove excess fat after browning.
- Cut cabbage evenly: Thin, uniform slices cook faster and more evenly.
- Double the batch: This dish makes fantastic leftovers. Store portions for easy meals later in the week.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is delicious on its own but even better when paired creatively:
- Over jasmine rice or brown rice for a classic combo
- With steamed cauliflower rice for a low-carb version
- Inside lettuce wraps for a fresh, crunchy twist
- As a filling for rice paper rolls with a dipping sauce
- Topped with a fried egg for an extra protein boost
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- This recipe also freezes well—store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- Add a splash of water or soy sauce if the stir fry seems dry.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of cabbage?
Absolutely. It’s a great time-saving hack and adds a variety of textures.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild unless you add crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust to your spice preference.
What’s the best way to slice cabbage?
Use a sharp knife or mandoline to thinly slice it into even strips.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and check that your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
