Description
A quick and delicious stir-fry balancing caramelized ground beef, tender-crisp cabbage, and an umami-forward sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
- 6 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar or honey
- 2 tbsp water or low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water (slurry)
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Crushed red pepper flakes or fresh sliced chiles (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or Chinese parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prep: Thinly slice cabbage and onion, mince garlic and ginger, and whisk the sauce ingredients together. Set cornstarch slurry aside.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add neutral oil and the ground beef, season lightly with salt, and cook until deeply browned (4–6 minutes).
- Push the beef to the side. If needed, add another teaspoon of oil, then add onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir until fragrant (30–45 seconds).
- Add sliced cabbage and toss to combine. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the cabbage softens but remains bright.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage. Stir to coat and bring to a gentle simmer. Add cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens (about 30–60 seconds).
- Finish with toasted sesame oil, half the scallions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with remaining scallions and additional sesame seeds.
Notes
For best texture, avoid microwaving leftovers; gently reheat on the stove.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg