Savory Stir-Fried Beef and Cabbage

Introduction

Savory stir-fried beef and cabbage is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender slices of beef with crunchy cabbage, all coated in a rich, umami-packed sauce. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, delivering a satisfying balance of protein and vegetables in every bite. Whether served over steamed rice or enjoyed on its own, this stir-fry is a great way to bring bold flavors to your table with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful – A delicious mix of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich flavors.
• Nutritious – Packed with protein and fiber from beef and cabbage.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable with different vegetables or spice levels.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced
• 3 cups cabbage, shredded
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• ¼ cup water or beef broth
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Cook the Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the marinated beef in a single layer and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
• Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables

• In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
• Sauté the onions for about 2 minutes until they soften.
• Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Toss in the cabbage and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes tender but still crisp.

4. Combine and Finish

• Return the beef to the pan and mix well with the vegetables.
• Add oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil, and water or beef broth. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and cabbage.
• Adjust seasoning as needed, adding red pepper flakes for spice if desired.

5. Serve

• Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
• Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
• Extra Veggies – Add carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more variety.
• Different Protein – Swap beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different take.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat for the best texture, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cabbage may become soggy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the beef extra tender?

Marinate it with cornstarch and soy sauce for at least 10 minutes. This helps lock in moisture and creates a velvety texture when stir-fried.

Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes! Flank steak, sirloin, ribeye, or skirt steak all work well. Just be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain.

What can I use instead of oyster sauce?

If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can substitute with extra soy sauce and a teaspoon of brown sugar.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free soy sauce and a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prep all ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to stir-fry fresh for optimal texture.

What other vegetables go well in this stir-fry?

Carrots, bell peppers, bok choy, and mushrooms all pair nicely with beef and cabbage.

What can I serve with this dish?

It goes well with steamed rice, noodles, or even a simple side of miso soup.

Can I use frozen cabbage?

Fresh cabbage is best, but if using frozen, thaw and drain excess water before cooking.

How do I prevent the cabbage from getting too soft?

Stir-fry it over high heat and cook just until it turns tender but still has a crunch.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

A neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, peanut, or canola oil, is ideal.

Conclusion

Savory stir-fried beef and cabbage is a simple yet delicious dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy nights, easy to customize, and pairs well with various sides. Give it a try, and you’ll have a go-to stir-fry recipe that never disappoints!

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