This Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty meal! With juicy ground beef and crunchy cabbage, it’s a delightful mix of flavors that come together fast.
You know what I love? This dish is so simple and perfect for busy weeknights. Just toss everything in the pan, and dinner is ready in no time. Plus, it’s colorful and fun to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe shines with ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great too and brings a lighter touch to the dish.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here, but feel free to use Napa cabbage or even kale for a twist. Both have great textures and flavors!
Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a zesty kick. If you only have ground ginger, use about a quarter teaspoon. It’s not as vibrant but still adds flavor.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a depth of flavor but if you’re vegetarian, substitute it with soy sauce or mushroom sauce for a similar taste.
Hoisin Sauce: It’s optional but adds a sweetness. If you don’t have it, a bit of honey or brown sugar can work too.
How Do I Make Sure the Cabbage Stays Crisp?
The key to keeping cabbage crispy is timing! Start by cooking the beef and garlic first, then add the cabbage closer to the end of cooking.
- Add it in after the sauces to avoid overcooking. A few minutes of stir-frying will wilt it slightly but keep its crunch.
- Always use high heat to quickly cook the cabbage while avoiding mushiness.
Enjoy the texture contrast in every bite!
Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir-fry takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and another 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a tasty meal ready in just about 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Grab a large skillet or wok and put it over medium-high heat. Pour in the vegetable oil and let it heat up for a minute or so.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they smell amazing. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Sauces:
If there’s extra fat in the pan, feel free to drain it. Then, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), and the crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything well to coat the beef with those yummy flavors.
5. Stir-Fry the Cabbage:
Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender but still crisp. The vibrant color is so inviting!
6. Finish with Sesame Oil:
Drizzle the sesame oil over the mixture. Carefully toss everything to combine—we want all the flavors to mingle!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Take your stir-fry off the heat and garnish it with the sliced green onions. Serve it hot over a bed of cooked rice, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Bon appétit and enjoy your flavorful Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry!
FAQ about Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu (for a vegetarian option) can be great substitutes. Adjust cooking times as needed based on your choice!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the stir-fry! Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It should last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve This Stir-Fry With Besides Rice?
If you’re looking for alternatives, this dish also pairs well with quinoa, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even noodles for a different texture!
