Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Published:

by Sofia

This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a delightful dish that you can whip up in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a quick meal for unexpected guests, this stir fry features savory flavors and wholesome ingredients. With its paleo and Whole30-friendly attributes, it can easily cater to various dietary needs while satisfying your cravings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those hectic evenings.
  • Flavorful Dish: The combination of coconut aminos, sesame oil, and ginger creates a deliciously rich taste.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with different vegetables or proteins according to your preference.
  • Healthy Choice: Packed with nutritious veggies and lean protein, it’s a wholesome meal option.
  • Easy Cleanup: Cook everything in one skillet for minimal mess and hassle.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly and prevents overcrowding.
  • Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining sauce ingredients before adding them to the stir fry.
  • Wooden spoon: Great for breaking up ground beef without damaging your skillet’s surface.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

  • 1/2 cup coconut aminos
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

For the Stir Fry

  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or preferred cooking oil)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced (about 8 cups)
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For Garnish

  • Green onion slices and sesame seeds
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How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Cook the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook while stirring until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Incorporate Vegetables and Sauce

Stir in the shredded cabbage, carrots, and prepared sauce. Cook while stirring until the cabbage wilts and the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste your stir fry and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize for everyone’s taste. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or something a bit more elaborate, here are some great serving suggestions.

Over Rice

  • White Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy white rice absorbs the flavors of the stir fry well.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
  • Cauliflower Rice: Perfect for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is light and complements the dish perfectly.

With Noodles

  • Rice Noodles: These gluten-free noodles soak up the sauce beautifully and add a unique texture.
  • Soba Noodles: Made from buckwheat, soba noodles provide a hearty base with an earthy flavor.

As Lettuce Wraps

  • Romaine or Butter Lettuce: Use leaves as wraps for a fun and fresh way to enjoy your stir fry. Just fill and roll!

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

  • Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch and enhance the dish’s flavor.
  • Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds give a nice crunch and elevate the presentation.

How to Perfect Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

To achieve an exceptional stir fry every time, consider these helpful tips. They will help you maximize flavor and texture while keeping the cooking process simple.

  • Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your beef with salt and pepper early on. This enhances its flavor right from the start.
  • High heat cooking: Use high heat when cooking to ensure quick browning of ingredients without steaming them. This keeps everything crisp.
  • Fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables. They not only taste better but also retain more nutrients.
  • Prep ahead of time: Chop all your ingredients before starting to cook. This makes the process smoother and quicker.
  • Adjust sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thin, let it cook longer to thicken. If too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
  • Taste as you go: Always taste your dish throughout cooking to adjust seasonings for your preference.
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Best Side Dishes for Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your stir fry can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some delicious options that go wonderfully with Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry.

  1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color, nutrition, and pairs well with the savory flavors of the stir fry.
  2. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting flavors that complement this dish nicely.
  3. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame make for a protein-rich side that’s both fun to eat and nutritious.
  4. Asian Slaw Salad: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brightens up the meal.
  5. Pickled Vegetables: Serve tangy pickled cucumbers or radishes on the side for a zesty contrast in flavors.
  6. Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in vinegar adds crunch and freshness to balance out the warmth of the stir fry.
  7. Egg Fried Rice: For those who love rice dishes, egg fried rice offers additional flavor that pairs excellently with beef and cabbage.
  8. Dumplings: Steamed or pan-fried dumplings filled with veggies or meat make for an exciting addition to your meal spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, it’s easy to make small errors that can affect the dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

  • Using low-quality beef: Low-quality ground beef can lead to a greasy stir fry. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • Overcooking vegetables: Cooking cabbage too long can make it mushy. Stir fry just until wilted to maintain texture.
  • Skipping the sauce: The sauce is essential for flavor. Don’t leave it out; whisk it together before starting the stir fry.
  • Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland food. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
  • Crowding the pan: Overcrowding prevents proper browning of the beef. Cook in batches if necessary for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • Can be stored for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread stir fry on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry healthy?

This stir fry is packed with vegetables and uses lean ground beef, making it nutritious while being low in calories.

Can I customize the Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?

Absolutely! You can add more veggies or swap proteins to suit your taste preferences.

How do I store leftovers of Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

What can I serve with Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?

Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just portion into containers with your choice of base.

Final Thoughts

Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights!


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Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry


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  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Discover the perfect weeknight meal with this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry. Ready in under 30 minutes, this flavorful dish combines savory ground beef with tender cabbage and aromatic spices, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings or unexpected guests. Packed with nutritious ingredients and paleo-friendly, this stir fry can easily be customized to suit your dietary preferences. With its quick preparation and minimal cleanup, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 head of cabbage (8 cups, thinly sliced)
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1-inch piece of ginger (grated)
  • 1/2 cup coconut aminos
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes; set aside.
  2. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add chopped onion; cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
  4. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add ground beef; break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
  6. Mix in shredded cabbage and carrots along with the prepared sauce; stir until the cabbage wilts (about 5 minutes).
  7. Season with salt and pepper as needed; serve warm garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 570mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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