u003cstrongu003eCan I use a different type of meat?u003c/strongu003e

Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are all excellent substitutes. Just note that leaner meats may need a bit more oil or moisture from sauce.

u003cstrongu003eIs this dish spicy?u003c/strongu003e

Only mildly, depending on how much chili you add. It’s easy to keep it mild or turn up the heat with more chili flakes or chili oil.

u003cstrongu003eCan I make it vegetarian?u003c/strongu003e

Yes! Try crumbled tofu, plant-based ground meat, or a combo of mushrooms and lentils for a satisfying plant-based version.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Definitely. It reheats very well and tastes just as delicious (if not better) the next day.

What’s the best way to slice the cabbage?

Cut the cabbage in half through the core, then cut each half into quarters. Remove the core and slice into thin, even shreds for quick, even cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure to cook the ingredients in batches to avoid overcrowding your pan, which can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying.

Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

Description

A fast and comforting stir-fry made with ground beef, green cabbage, garlic, and soy sauce. This Cantonese-inspired winter meal is perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight cooking.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium green cabbage (about 1.5 lbs), thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
2 tbsp vegetable oil

Stir Fry Sauce:

2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp sesame oil
1/2 tbsp chili flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Ingredients:
Thinly slice the cabbage, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Mix the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
Brown the Beef:
Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking up the meat until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
Add another tbsp oil to the pan if needed. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Cabbage:
Add sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp. Cook longer if you prefer a softer texture.
Combine & Finish:
Return the beef to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir everything together. Cook for 2–3 minutes so the flavors combine and coat all the ingredients.
Serve:
Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or on its own.

Notes

Use napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for a different texture.
Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more variety.
Make it low-carb by serving over cauliflower rice.
For vegetarian, use crumbled tofu or plant-based ground.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes