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Healthy Chinese ground beef stir fry with cabbage served in a bowl
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Healthy Chinese Ground Beef & Cabbage Stir Fry

A quick and delicious stir fry packed with ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and savory Asian flavors, ready in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Chinese
Keyword: Healthy, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Wok

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef Use 93% lean or higher for a healthier option.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced About half a medium head.
  • 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, minced About 1 tablespoon.
  • 1 large carrot, julienned or sliced thin
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce Optional, for sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch Optional, for thickening.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes Optional, for heat.
  • 2 green onions sliced For garnish.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds For garnish.

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until well browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan with the beef. Stir fry for 2 minutes, until fragrant and the onion begins to soften.
  • Mix in the sliced cabbage and carrot. Toss everything together and stir fry for 3–4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp but not mushy.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and cornstarch (if you want a thicker sauce). Pour the sauce over the beef and veggies. Stir well to coat everything and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until the sauce is slightly thickened.
  • Sprinkle with black pepper and red chili flakes (if desired). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet.