This Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a simple and tasty dish. It features tender ground beef and crispy cabbage cooked together in a savory sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This dish calls for ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great too! You could even try plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Cabbage: Green cabbage adds a nice crunch and a bit of sweetness. If you prefer, you can use savoy cabbage or even Napa cabbage for a different texture. Just remember that softer varieties might wilt faster, so adjust cooking time accordingly!
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is essential for that savory depth. If you need a low-sodium alternative, tamari is a fantastic choice. For a soy-free option, coconut aminos can work in a pinch.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a unique umami flavor. If avoiding shellfish, look for mushroom-based oyster sauce or simply skip it; add a bit more soy sauce instead for a similar depth.
Pepper Flakes: If you like some heat, crushed red pepper flakes are excellent. For a milder version, leave them out or use a touch of black pepper instead.
How Do I Get the Cabbage to Be Just Right in a Stir-Fry?
Sautéing cabbage correctly helps maintain its texture. Here’s how to do it well:
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding the cabbage. This helps it to cook quickly without getting soggy.
- Keep stirring! This evenly distributes heat and prevents burning. Stir-fry cabbage for just 4-5 minutes until it’s tender but still has that nice crunch.
- Don’t overload the pan! If making a big batch, cook in two rounds to avoid steaming instead of stir-frying.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly cooked cabbage that complements the ground beef beautifully!
Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal that you can whip up in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the thinly sliced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until everything is fragrant and the onion is slightly softened.
3. Add the Cabbage:
Now, it’s time to add the sliced cabbage! Stir-fry the cabbage for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s tender but still has a nice crispness. This gives the dish a wonderful texture.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well mixed and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to come together!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the stir-fry from the heat and garnish it with sliced green onions. Serve it hot over a bed of cooked rice for a complete and delicious meal!
Enjoy this flavorful and easy Chinese-inspired ground beef and cabbage stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
FAQs for Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just ensure that any meat you choose is cooked through properly.
How Do I Customize the Spice Level?
If you want to adjust the spice level, you can easily do so by reducing or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes. For a bit more heat, consider adding sriracha or chili garlic sauce during the cooking process, adjusting to your taste!
How To Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Just remember to adjust cooking times for different veggies to ensure everything cooks evenly while maintaining some crunch!
