Savory Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Name: Savory Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium green cabbage, shredded; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp minced garlic; 1 medium onion, sliced; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/4 cup sliced green onions

🕒 Prep: 5 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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Savory Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, satisfying dish that brings together hearty flavors with just a handful of ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender beef with crispy cabbage for a delightful contrast of textures.

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Ingredients for Savory Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Ground beef is the meaty backbone of this recipe, providing rich flavor and protein. Opt for a leaner cut to keep it light. Green cabbage adds a delightful crunch and soaks up the savory sauce beautifully. Soy sauce infuses umami depth, while olive oil ensures everything cooks smoothly without sticking. Minced garlic and sliced onion are classic aromatics that build a fragrant flavor base. Black pepper and salt season the dish, with a splash of sesame oil for a nutty finish. Finally, sliced green onions add a fresh, zesty garnish.

Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, add a splash of rice vinegar during the last minute of cooking.
If you like spice, throw in some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
Use a large enough pan to avoid overcrowding, which can cause the ingredients to steam rather than fry.
Shred the cabbage thinly for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This stir-fry pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or a bowl of warm quinoa for a wholesome meal. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice. A side of pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad would complement the flavors nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?: Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as an alternative.
How do I store leftovers?: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
What other vegetables can I add?: Bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas are great additions for extra color and nutrition.

Savory Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not smoke. Add the ground beef and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned, about 5 minutes. This is the foundation of our stir-fry, so let it develop some color.

Next, stir in the sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook these together until the onions turn translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. This step pulls out the sweetness of the onions and the aroma of the garlic, setting a savory tone for the dish.

Now, it's time for the star — add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Stir it in well to ensure it mingles with the beef and onions. Season with soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Stir fry everything together for another 5-7 minutes, just until the cabbage is tender-crisp. You want it to maintain a bit of bite, not get soggy.

Finally, drizzle the stir-fry with sesame oil for that rich, nutty aroma. Toss everything to coat evenly, and then remove from heat. Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor, and serve it hot.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare — ready in under 30 minutes.
Minimal ingredients — simple pantry staples.
Flavorful and satisfying without being heavy.
Great for meal prep — reheats well.
Versatile — easily customizable with your favorite veggies or spices.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 medium green cabbage, shredded

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp minced garlic

1 medium onion, sliced

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp sesame oil

1/4 cup sliced green onions

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in sliced onions and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes.

4. Add shredded cabbage to the pan and stir well to combine.

5. Season with soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Stir fry for another 5-7 minutes until cabbage is tender-crisp.