Stir-Fried Beef and Cabbage

A Flavorful and Quick Stir-Fry Dish

Stir-fried beef and cabbage is a delicious and easy dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp, slightly sweet cabbage in a savory sauce. This dish is packed with umami flavors from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, making it a satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner.
• Healthy and Nutritious: High in protein and fiber while being low in carbs.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that are widely available.
• Customizable: You can add more vegetables or adjust the spice level to your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced against the grain
• 3 cups cabbage, shredded
• 1 small carrot, julienned (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Sauce Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
• In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients until smooth.
• Chop the cabbage and julienne the carrot.

2. Marinate the Beef

• Toss the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of the prepared sauce. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

3. Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
• Add the beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
• Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the cabbage and carrot, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.

5. Combine Everything

• Return the cooked beef to the pan.
• Pour in the remaining sauce and stir well to coat.
• Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the ingredients.

6. Serve

• Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
• Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the sugar and use a low-carb soy sauce alternative.
• Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas.
• Teriyaki Style: Swap the sauce for a homemade teriyaki sauce for a sweeter twist.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat for the best texture, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the beef tender?

Slice it thinly against the grain and marinate it with a little cornstarch and soy sauce before cooking.

Can I use ground beef instead of sliced beef?

Yes! Ground beef works well and makes this dish even quicker to prepare.

What’s the best type of cabbage for this recipe?

Green cabbage is the best choice, but Napa cabbage also works well for a softer texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, stir-fry the vegetables fresh when reheating.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs are a great substitute.

What side dishes go well with this stir-fry?

Steamed rice, noodles, or a light soup complement this dish perfectly.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended, as cabbage can become too soft when thawed.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce.

What oil should I use for stir-frying?

A high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil is best.

Can I add eggs to this stir-fry?

Yes, scrambled eggs can be mixed in for added protein.

Conclusion

Stir-fried beef and cabbage is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and highly customizable, making it a staple in any home kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade stir-fry!

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