Savory Stir-Fried Beef and Cabbage

A Flavorful, Quick, and Nutritious Meal

Stir-fried beef and cabbage is a delicious, hearty dish packed with bold flavors and tender textures. This dish blends thinly sliced beef with crisp cabbage, all coated in a savory, umami-rich sauce. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a balance of protein and vegetables while being easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different vegetables, spices, or sauces.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye), thinly sliced
• ½ head green cabbage, shredded
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. In a small bowl, toss the sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

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

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

4. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
5. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add the shredded cabbage and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until it begins to soften.

Step 4: Combine Everything

7. Return the cooked beef to the pan.
8. Stir in the oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes.
9. Drizzle with sesame oil and mix well.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

10. Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
11. Serve hot over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili paste for extra heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap out the soy sauce for coconut aminos and serve over cauliflower rice.
• Different Proteins: Try chicken, pork, or tofu instead of beef.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrients.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh flavors.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Yes! Pre-shredded cabbage is a great time-saver. Just ensure it’s fresh for the best texture.

What cut of beef works best?

Flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are ideal because they are tender and cook quickly.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely. Replace beef with tofu or tempeh, and follow the same steps.

How do I prevent the beef from being tough?

Slice it against the grain and marinate it with cornstarch, which helps tenderize the meat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Cook fresh for the best results.

What can I serve this with?

Steamed rice, quinoa, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in water and stir it in.

Can I use red cabbage instead?

Yes, but it has a slightly different texture and a hint of sweetness.

What’s the best oil for stir-frying?

Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or avocado oil work well due to their high smoke points.

Conclusion

Savory stir-fried beef and cabbage is a perfect go-to meal when you need something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking process, it’s an excellent dish for any home cook. Try it with your favorite variations and enjoy a delicious homemade stir-fry any day of the week!

Print