Irresistible Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry


  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
  • 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or Napa cabbage works great)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds extra umami)
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for aroma)
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for added color

For Garnish:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients

  1. Shred the cabbage, slice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Having everything prepped and ready will make the stir-fry process quick and seamless.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Drain any excess grease if needed.

3. Add Aromatics

  1. Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet and add the garlic, ginger, and onion to the other side. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Mix the beef and aromatics together.

4. Stir in the Cabbage

  1. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for 3–5 minutes, or until the cabbage softens slightly but still retains some crunch.
  2. If using carrots or bell peppers, add them along with the cabbage.

5. Season the Dish

  1. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha (if using). Mix well to coat the beef and cabbage evenly.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more soy sauce or chili sauce as desired.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  2. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or on its own for a low-carb option.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a vibrant flavor that dried ginger can’t replicate.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Add more sriracha or chili garlic sauce for extra heat, or omit it entirely for a milder dish.
  • Add Umami Boosters: A splash of rice vinegar or a dash of fish sauce can enhance the depth of flavor.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Why This Recipe Works

This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry combines the savory richness of ground beef with the fresh crunch of cabbage and bold Asian-inspired seasonings. The result is a dish that’s flavorful, satisfying, and easy to customize. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this recipe delivers big on taste and practicality.

Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

Whether you’re craving a quick and tasty dinner, looking to use up leftover cabbage, or simply want to try something new, this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, healthy ingredients, and versatility make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can customize it to suit any occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this stir-fry might just inspire others to try it too! 🥢✨


 

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