Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage

This savory beef and cabbage stir fry is my answer to a nutritious dinner when I want something hearty but light I love that it comes together in no time and satisfies a craving for classic takeout flavors with way less oil and salt The mix of tender ground beef sweet cabbage and a gingery soy sauce glaze just never disappoints

I first cooked this dish when I had extra cabbage to use up and it has quickly become one of my go to worknight meals The aroma of fresh ginger and garlic sizzling just always signals a cozy evening ahead

• Lean ground beef: choose a quality option with less fat for lighter flavor
• Green cabbage: sliced thin for crunch and heartiness select a head that feels heavy for its size
• Carrot: julienned for color and a sweet note firm carrots work best
• Sesame oil: brings classic Asian aroma and deep toastiness look for toasted sesame oil for best taste
• Garlic: fresh and minced for bold flavor
• Fresh ginger: grated finely to infuse the dish with zest opt for plump unwrinkled ginger root
• Low sodium soy sauce: offers deep umami with less saltiness
• Rice vinegar: brightens the flavors for a perfect stir fry balance use unseasoned rice vinegar
• Oyster sauce: gives richer depth and a classic finish optional but really delivers restaurant style results
• Cornstarch: mixed with water helps the sauce cling to every bite
• Crushed red pepper flakes: add a pop of heat if you like spice
• Green onions: sliced for brightness and a touch of bite
• Cooked jasmine or brown rice: a perfect base for serving optional but very filling

Each ingredient plays a part in making the stir fry both flavorful and healthy The best results always come from using fresh crisp produce and getting your hands on good beef

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:

Wash and thinly slice the cabbage peel and julienne the carrot mince garlic grate your ginger prep green onions and have your sauces measured out

Brown the Beef:

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium high then add sesame oil Once hot add ground beef Break apart with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink Drain excess fat if needed for a lighter meal

Build the Aromatic Base:

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to browned beef Cook and stir for one minute until fragrant letting their flavors infuse into the beef

Cook the Vegetables:

Add thinly sliced cabbage and julienned carrot to the skillet Cook for four to five minutes stirring frequently until the cabbage wilts slightly but still keeps a little crunch

Add the Sauce:

Stir in soy sauce rice vinegar and oyster sauce making sure everything gets coated Let the mixture simmer briefly to meld flavors

Thicken the Stir Fry:

Pour in the cornstarch and water slurry Stir well and allow the sauce to bubble and thicken until it coats beef and veggies nicely usually one to two minutes

Season and Garnish:

Taste the stir fry and add red pepper flakes if you want more heat Finish with green onions scattered on top for color and freshness

Serve:

Enjoy hot straight from the pan or spoon over a bowl of steamed rice for a satisfying meal that feels like takeout but is made at home

Pin it

What makes this dish special for me is always the fresh ginger I love how that gentle heat and fragrance fills the kitchen and my family always notices when there is just the right amount One snowy night this was the meal that warmed everyone up and it became an instant favorite

Best Ways to Store Leftovers

Let the stir fry cool to room temp then refrigerate in an airtight container It will stay tasty for three days Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving To freeze divide into individual containers and enjoy within a month though the veggies may lose a bit of crunch

Tasty Ingredient Swaps

If you do not have beef ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives Swap out cabbage for bagged slaw or even thinly sliced Brussels sprouts The sauce is still delicious with coconut aminos or tamari in place of soy If you skip oyster sauce add a splash more soy and a pinch of sugar

Serving and Side Ideas

This stir fry pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine or nutty brown rice For a lighter meal try serving in lettuce cups or over cooked quinoa Add steamed broccoli on the side or top with toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch It is also great tucked into meal prep bowls for lunch

Recipe Roots and Inspiration

Chinese stir fry techniques have shaped this recipe but using ground beef and simple sauces makes it truly weeknight friendly The method draws from traditional kitchen wisdom—high heat quick cooking vibrant veg and a balance of salty sour and a hint of sweet in every bite

Pin it

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use another type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well and keep the dish lighter while still delivering flavor.

→ How do I keep the cabbage crisp?

Cook the cabbage briefly over high heat, stirring often, to soften slightly while maintaining some crunch.

→ Is the oyster sauce essential?

Oyster sauce adds depth, but you may skip it or substitute with hoisin or extra soy sauce if needed.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Steamed jasmine or brown rice is classic, but cauliflower rice or noodles also pair nicely.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.