This quick stir-fry features ground beef and crunchy cabbage, all sizzled together with delicious flavors. It’s a simple and tasty meal that’s ready in no time!
I love how this dish comes together in just one pan. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights, and the best part? You can always add extra veggies if you’re feeling fancy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of your dish! If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken also works well. For a vegetarian option, consider using textured vegetable protein or crumbled tempeh for a different twist.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is my go-to for this recipe, but you can substitute it with Napa cabbage or even bok choy. If cabbage isn’t your thing, shredded carrots or bell peppers can add a nice crunch too.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is perfect, but if you’re watching your sodium, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth of flavor, but if you prefer a vegetarian/vegan alternative, you can use mushroom sauce or simply skip it. It’ll still taste great!
How Do I Ensure the Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the ground beef to perfection can be key to a successful stir-fry. Here’s how:
- Use a hot skillet or wok to ensure a good sear.
- Break the meat into small pieces with your spatula as it cooks to allow for even browning.
- Once fully cooked, don’t forget to drain any excess fat. This keeps your dish from becoming too greasy.
Taking these steps will help you achieve juicy and flavorful beef that complements the crisp veggies beautifully!
Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated or minced
For the Sauces:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll have it ready in about 25 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot to get the best stir-fried flavor!
2. Add Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil, stirring them for about 30 seconds. The amazing aroma will fill your kitchen!
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra fat, feel free to drain it off for a cleaner dish.
4. Combine the Sauces:
Now, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice wine (if you’re using it). Also, mix in the sugar and black pepper. Stir well to combine all those delicious flavors!
5. Add the Cabbage:
Once you’ve got everything mixed, toss in the sliced cabbage. Stir-fry it with the beef for about 4-5 minutes, until it’s tender but still has a bit of crunch to it. Yum!
6. Finish with Sesame Oil:
Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and toss everything together. This step adds a lovely nutty flavor!
7. Serve It Up:
Remove the skillet from heat and prepare to serve! Spoon the stir-fry over bowls of hot cooked rice.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top your stir-fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Enjoy your delicious, easy Chinese-style ground beef and cabbage stir-fry!
It’s a quick, healthy, and tasty dish perfect for any night of the week!
FAQ for Easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using crumbled tofu or textured vegetable protein instead of ground meat.
What if I Don’t Have Oyster Sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can simply omit it or substitute with hoisin sauce for a sweet and savory flavor. Alternatively, a combination of soy sauce and a splash of sugar can work as a replacement in a pinch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat. You can add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the dish if it thickens up in the fridge.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Stir-Fry?
Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, or even snap peas for extra nutrition and color!
