Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make, look no further than this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry! This recipe has been a beloved favorite in my kitchen for years. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend cooking. The combination of ground beef and fresh cabbage creates a hearty meal that is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor.

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this stir-fry checks all the boxes. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table. Plus, if you serve it over rice or noodles or wrap it in crisp lettuce leaves, you’ll have an unforgettable culinary experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the tender beef and crunchy cabbage.
• Versatile Ingredients: Make use of whatever veggies you have on hand for added nutrition.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Leftovers store well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep!
• Delicious Flavor: The savory sauce elevates simple ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create your delicious Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry:

For the Stir-Fry

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or fresh ginger for an extra kick of heat.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein like crumbled tofu or tempeh.

How to Make Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic and ginger, and slice the green onions. Having everything ready makes cooking quick and stress-free!

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked. This step is crucial because browning adds depth of flavor. If there’s any excess fat in the pan, drain it off as needed.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger

Once the beef is browned, add in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them in for about one minute until they become fragrant. This will infuse your dish with amazing aromas that are hard to resist!

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Now it’s time to add that crunchy cabbage! Sauté it with the beef mixture for another five minutes until it’s slightly wilted but still retains its crunch. This texture contrast makes every bite delightful.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, cornstarch, and sesame oil until smooth. Pour this mixture over your stir-fried ingredients. It’s this sauce that brings everything together beautifully!

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Stir well to combine everything and cook for an additional two minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions on top. Enjoy this flavorful dish with rice or noodles—or even in crisp lettuce wraps!

With this guide in hand, I hope you’re inspired to whip up your own Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry soon! It’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Pro Tips for Making Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Cooking is all about finding what works best for you, and with these pro tips, your stir-fry will shine even brighter!

• Prep Ahead: Having all your ingredients chopped and measured before cooking streamlines the process and helps prevent any last-minute stress. This ensures a smooth cooking experience, especially when you’re on a time crunch.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat allows the beef to brown nicely while keeping the cabbage crunchy. This high temperature enhances the flavor by creating a slight caramelization on the beef and vegetables.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Not only does this add nutrition, but it also creates a colorful dish that’s visually appealing and delicious.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy some heat, consider adding chili flakes or fresh ginger to elevate the flavor profile. A little spice can really enhance the overall taste of the stir-fry.
• Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating gently ensures you maintain the dish’s texture and flavor for your next meal.

How to Serve Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Serving your stir-fry beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to present this dish with flair.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color, making each bite more refreshing.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This classic pairing absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
• Garlic Green Beans: Quickly sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crisp contrast to the tender beef and cabbage.
• Miso Soup: A light miso soup serves as a warm, comforting side that balances out the richness of the stir-fry.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing adds a cool crunch that complements the warm stir-fry perfectly.

With these serving suggestions, your Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry will not only be delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy sharing this delightful meal with family or friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for quick weeknight dinners or lunches throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stir-fry to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Freezing

• Cool the stir-fry fully before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish!

Can I customize the Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli. You can also add chili flakes for a spicy kick.

What can I serve with Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry?

This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles. You can also use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a fresh twist!

How long will leftovers of Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is excellent for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry as much as I do! It’s a quick, satisfying meal that brings together great flavors while being nutritious. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it at a casual gathering, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to try out different veggies or spices to make it your own. Happy cooking!