This Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty meal! With juicy ground beef and crunchy cabbage, it’s packed with flavor and nutrition.
You can whip this up in a flash, making it perfect for busy nights. I love serving it over rice for a filling dinner that my family enjoys every time! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use any type of ground meat, like turkey, chicken, or pork, if you prefer. Each option gives the dish a different flavor. I often lean towards beef for that classic taste!
Cabbage: Green cabbage gives this dish a nice crunch, but you can also swap it for napa cabbage or bok choy for a different texture and taste. If you’re looking for more veggies, throw in some bell peppers or carrots!
Soy Sauce: This is crucial for umami flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try tamari or coconut aminos as a tasty substitute. I love using low-sodium soy sauce to keep the salt level balanced in my dishes.
Condiments: Oyster sauce and hoisin sauce both add depth. If you don’t have them, try a mix of soy sauce with a touch of sugar. It won’t be the same, but it still works well in a pinch!
How Do You Ensure Your Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your ground beef just right is key to a delicious stir-fry. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet well before adding oil; this helps prevent sticking.
- Add the ground beef and let it sit for a minute before stirring. This allows it to brown nicely.
- Break it up gently with a spatula and cook until there’s no pink left. Don’t rush—this will take about 5-7 minutes.
- If there’s extra grease, don’t forget to drain it. This helps keep the dish light and delicious.
Using these tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked beef every time! Enjoy making your stir-fry with confidence!
Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 green onions, chopped
Sauces and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooking Oil:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so the total time is around 25 minutes. This quick stir-fry is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be nice and hot before adding the ingredients.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant and turn a light golden brown. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. If there’s a lot of grease, you can drain some of it off.
4. Add the Cabbage:
Stir in the sliced cabbage. Cook everything together for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the cabbage to soften a bit while still keeping some crunch.
5. Mix in the Sauces:
Now, it’s time to add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir everything well so the sauces coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Season the Stir-Fry:
Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. Give it another good mix to blend all the flavors together.
7. Add the Green Onions:
Toss in the chopped green onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This will add a fresh and vibrant crunch to your dish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the stir-fry from heat and serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious and easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Another Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Each option offers a unique flavor and can make this dish a bit lighter or richer, depending on your choice!
What if I Don’t Have Cabbage?
No worries! If you’re out of cabbage, you can use other vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or sliced bell peppers. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as different vegetables may soften at different rates.
Can I Prepare This Stir-Fry in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the stir-fry and let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want extra heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes, a splash of Sriracha, or even some sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking. Adjust to your spice preference for the perfect kick!
