Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

Stir-fries are a staple in Chinese cuisine, known for their quick preparation and delightful flavors. The combination of savory ground beef and tender cabbage creates a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. This easy Chinese ground beef and cabbage stir fry recipe brings these ingredients together with a deliciously savory sauce, creating a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quick yet flavorful dinner. The balance of tender beef and crunchy cabbage, paired with a hint of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, makes each bite a satisfying experience. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or an experienced cook, this recipe is simple to follow and incredibly versatile. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal the whole family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chinese ground beef and cabbage stir fry is the epitome of comfort food with a twist. The ground beef is savory and juicy, while the cabbage adds a lovely crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender meat. The sauce, made with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, coats the beef and cabbage in a flavorful glaze that’s both rich and savory. It’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t require any complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze. You can also customize it to your tastes by adding extra veggies or adjusting the seasonings to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or something to impress your guests, this recipe will check all the boxes.

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Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Cabbage, shredded
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, minced
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce (optional)
• Sugar
• Sesame oil
• Green onions, chopped (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra color and flavor.
• Spicy Stir Fry: Add chili garlic sauce, red pepper flakes, or a few slices of fresh chili for a spicy kick.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Rice Noodles: Serve the stir fry with rice noodles instead of rice for a different texture and a more authentic Chinese feel.
• Tofu Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with crumbled firm tofu for a plant-based protein.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Shred the cabbage and set it aside. Mince the garlic and ginger, and chop the green onions if you’re using them. Have all the ingredients ready to go as stir-frying happens quickly.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pan or wok, heat a little sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger

Once the beef is cooked, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Cabbage

Add the shredded cabbage to the pan and toss it with the beef. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the cabbage is wilted but still slightly crunchy.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), a pinch of sugar, and a splash of sesame oil. Pour this mixture over the beef and cabbage, stirring to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Final Stir and Serve

Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce if needed. Garnish with green onions and red pepper flakes, if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Stir-fry the cabbage just enough to retain its crunch. Overcooking it will make it limp and soggy.
• High Heat is Key: Stir-frying at high heat helps to develop those characteristic crispy edges on the beef while keeping the cabbage tender-crisp.
• Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce by adding more sugar or soy sauce to taste. You can also experiment with hoisin sauce or chili paste for different flavor profiles.
• Use a Wok: If you have a wok, it’s the best tool for stir-frying, allowing the heat to distribute evenly.

How to Serve

This Chinese ground beef and cabbage stir fry is perfect on its own or served over steamed white rice or brown rice. You can also pair it with noodles for a more substantial meal. For an extra touch, serve it alongside some crispy spring rolls or a bowl of hot soup. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a simple side of steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy would complement the dish perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Freezing

You can freeze this stir fry for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the stir fry in a hot pan with a little sesame oil or water to prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground pork instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground pork is a great alternative and will provide a slightly different flavor. You can also use a combination of beef and pork for a balanced taste.

2. How do I prevent the beef from becoming greasy?

If the ground beef releases too much fat, you can drain it before adding the garlic and ginger to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the ground beef with crumbled firm tofu, and use vegetable broth or soy sauce for the seasoning.

4. What type of cabbage is best for stir-frying?

Green cabbage is typically used in stir-fries, but napa cabbage can also be a good choice for a lighter, more delicate texture.

5. How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or chili paste to the sauce to give the dish an extra spicy kick. You can also add sliced fresh chili peppers when cooking.

6. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for additional color and flavor.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you’re cooking for a larger group. Just make sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure everything cooks evenly.

8. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute for the regular soy sauce and oyster sauce.

9. Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially when served with low-carb options like cauliflower rice.

10. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the beef and cabbage ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to stir-fry. The sauce can also be made in advance.

Conclusion

This easy Chinese ground beef and cabbage stir fry is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and a savory sauce, it’s a meal that’s simple to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this stir-fry delivers on taste, texture, and ease. Try it out tonight and enjoy a delicious homemade Chinese meal in no time!

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