Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry

Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry

When you need something quick, filling, and full of bold flavor—without spending an hour over a hot stove—this Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry is your new go-to dish.
It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and brimming with savory-sweet stir-fry sauce and crunchy, nutrient-dense veggies.

Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a meal prep Sunday, or a summer dinner that won’t heat up your kitchen, this recipe checks every box.

🥄 Why You’ll Love This Stir Fry

  • Fast and easy: Done in under 30 minutes.

  • Nutritious and hearty: High-protein, veggie-loaded, and lower-carb.

  • Bold flavor: Sweet, savory, and garlicky in every bite.

  • Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

  • Summer-ready: Light, fresh, and satisfying without being heavy.

📝 Ingredients (6 Servings)

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)

  • ½ head green cabbage, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup shredded carrots

  • ½ cup diced onion

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

  • 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar

  • 1 tbsp sesame oil

  • 1 tsp sriracha or red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

⏱ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

  • Total Time: ~25 minutes

  • Yield: 6 servings

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add the diced onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in Vegetables

Add the cabbage and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes, until the veggies are softened but still slightly crisp.

Step 4: Add Sauce

Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sriracha. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve warm over rice, noodles, or on its own for a low-carb option.

🌞 Why It’s a Perfect Summer Dish

  • One pan = less cleanup: Ideal for low-effort summer nights.

  • Quick cook time: No long simmering or baking needed.

  • Light but filling: Packed with protein and fiber to keep you full.

  • Customizable: Adjust spice, sweetness, or veggies to your preference.

  • Meal-prep friendly: Cools and stores beautifully for next-day meals.

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Go low-carb: Serve in lettuce wraps or with cauliflower rice.

  • Use ground turkey or chicken: For an even leaner option.

  • Boost the veggies: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms.

  • Make it saucier: Double the sauce if serving over noodles or rice.

  • Add crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or cashews before serving.

🧊 Storage & Meal Prep

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze cooled stir fry in single portions for up to 2 months.

  • Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or water to refresh.

🍲 What Makes This Stir Fry “Healthy”?

This version skips sugary bottled sauces and deep-frying. Instead:

  • Lean beef keeps it lower in saturated fat.

  • Cabbage and carrots pack in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

  • Sesame oil adds flavor in small, heart-healthy amounts.

  • It’s naturally gluten-free with tamari and can be made low-carb or paleo-friendly.

Leave a Comment