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Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

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4.7 from 123 reviews

A quick and flavorful one-pan beef and cabbage stir-fry recipe featuring a savory sesame-soy sauce, tender ground beef, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for a nutritious lunch that’s easy to prepare and packed with satisfying textures and umami-rich flavors.

Ingredients

Sauce

  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  • 2 tsp light brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) tamari or gluten-free soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or more to taste)
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) water

Stir Fry

  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1/2 small green cabbage, finely shredded (approximately 3 cups)
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced into thin matchsticks
  • 4 scallions, thinly chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil, avocado oil, or any neutral oil
  • 1 tbsp freshly minced ginger, peeled
  • 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the toasted sesame oil, tamari or soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, brown sugar (or chosen sweetener), freshly ground black pepper, and toasted sesame seeds if using. Stir vigorously until well mixed and set aside.
  2. Cook the Beef Mixture: Warm a large sauté pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil of choice, then immediately add the chopped garlic, minced ginger, and ground beef. Cook while stirring and breaking apart the meat until fully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add Vegetables: Incorporate the shredded cabbage and carrot matchsticks into the pan with the cooked beef. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften while still retaining a slight crunch.
  4. Add Sauce and Scallions: Pour the pre-mixed sauce into the skillet, tossing the ingredients well to coat everything evenly. Add the sliced scallions, increase the heat slightly, and continue cooking for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and is absorbed by the mixture.
  5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. This dish pairs well on its own or over steamed rice, noodles, cauliflower rice, or spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
  • Adjust the sweetness and pepper quantity in the sauce to taste.
  • Use any neutral oil like avocado or olive oil for cooking.
  • Serve with rice or noodles, or opt for low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini.
  • To add more vegetables, feel free to include bell peppers or snap peas.