Description
A quick and healthy Chinese-inspired stir-fry featuring lean ground beef and crisp green cabbage, enhanced with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for authentic flavor. Ready in 20 minutes, this nutritious meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, combining vibrant vegetables and protein in a one-pan dish that is flavorful without heaviness.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 green onions, sliced
Sauces and Oils
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup low-sodium broth or water
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Finely chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic and ginger, and slice the green onions. Having all ingredients ready before cooking makes the process smooth and efficient.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until no longer pink and beginning to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Add Aromatics and Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then pour in the soy sauce and a splash of broth or water to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
- Toss in the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir frequently to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender but still retains some crispness.
- Finish with Green Onions and Sesame Oil: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sliced green onions and toasted sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the cabbage to retain nutrients and a satisfying crunch.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce and adjust seasoning gradually to control saltiness.
- Add broth or water sparingly to soften the cabbage without making the dish watery.
- Stir constantly over high heat to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg