Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.

• Healthy & Balanced: Packed with protein and fiber, offering a nutritious meal.

• Customizable: Easily swap proteins or add extra veggies to suit your preferences.

• Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, and Whole30-compliant.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or preferred cooking oil)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

• 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced (about 8 cups)

• ½ cup shredded carrots

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Stir Fry Sauce

• ½ cup coconut aminos (or soy sauce)

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 2 teaspoons sesame oil

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set aside.

2. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Stir in the sliced cabbage and shredded carrots. Pour the prepared stir fry sauce over the mixture. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and tender, about 5 minutes.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.

• Sauce Adjustments: Add a splash of lime juice or a drizzle of honey for a tangy or sweet twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the dish seems dry.

FAQs

How do I slice cabbage for stir fry?

For optimal texture, cut the cabbage into thin strips, about ¼ inch wide. Remove the tough core before slicing.

Can I use a different oil?

Yes, you can substitute avocado oil with other neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, when using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, this recipe is gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli to enhance the dish.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce to add more heat.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Yes, using pre-shredded cabbage can save time and effort.

What can I serve this stir fry with?

Serve over steamed white rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze this stir fry?

Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 1 month. Ensure it's cooled completely before freezing.

How do I reheat frozen stir fry?

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines savory flavors with nutritious ingredients. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your preferences. Enjoy the delightful blend of textures and flavors in every bite!