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If you’re craving a quick, flavorful dinner that combines bold Asian flavors with hearty, wholesome ingredients, then you are going to love this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe. Packed with savory ground beef, crisp cabbage, and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes and transforms simple pantry staples into an irresistible meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but fuss-free, and it bursts with fresh, vibrant textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet essential to building the authentic taste and satisfying texture that make this stir fry so comforting. Each one plays a unique role, from the savory depth of coconut aminos and sesame oil to the fresh crunch of cabbage and carrot.
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos: a naturally sweet, soy-free sauce that adds umami without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: brings a gentle tang that brightens the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tsp sesame oil: gives a toasty, nutty aroma that makes this stir fry irresistible.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: adds a subtle kick, balancing the sweetness and saltiness.
- 1 tbsp avocado oil: a neutral cooking oil perfect for searing the beef and softening the onion.
- 1 onion (chopped): adds sweetness and depth when caramelized.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): infuses the dish with pungent warmth and scent.
- 1 inch ginger (grated): adds zest and a slight peppery aroma that lifts the dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: the hearty protein base that makes the meal satisfying and filling.
- 1 head of cabbage (thinly sliced, about 8 cups): delivers crunch and mild sweetness that balances the beef.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot: adds color and a gentle natural sweetness.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Green onion slices and sesame seeds: fresh, crunchy garnishes that add visual appeal and texture.
How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by stirring together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This simple sauce is the backbone of the dish, balancing sweet, salty, nutty, and spicy notes perfectly. Set it aside while you prep the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This gentle caramelization develops the flavor base for the stir fry.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Ground Beef
Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger for about one minute until their aroma fills your kitchen. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon. Cook until the beef is fully browned and cooked through, roughly 5 minutes. This step builds the hearty protein foundation of the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables with the Sauce
Now, stir in the thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrot. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and cook, stirring frequently, until the cabbage wilts and softens and the sauce thickens slightly—about 5 minutes. The vibrant colors and textures meld deliciously here.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Give your stir fry a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish warm, generously sprinkled with fresh green onion slices and sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and pop of color.
How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions and sesame seeds are classic garnishes for a reason. They not only enhance the presentation with their vibrant green and nutty speckles but also add a fresh and crunchy contrast to the tender stir fry. Feel free to toss in a few cilantro leaves or a drizzle of sriracha if you like a spicy twist.
Side Dishes
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even simple noodles. A light miso soup or crisp cucumber salad can round out the meal with refreshing flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this stir fry over crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb, handheld delight. Alternatively, pile it into warm, toasted buns for an Asian-inspired sandwich or wrap it in rice paper for fresh spring rolls. The possibilities are endless, and each way brings out a new dimension of this tasty recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen after sitting, making the stir fry even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to store it separately from any rice or noodles if you made them.
Freezing
This recipe freezes very well. Portion the stir fry into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep nicely for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or a drizzle of oil if it seems dry. Microwave reheating works fine too—just cover the dish to retain moisture and heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based crumbles work wonderfully in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your protein is fully cooked and flavorful.
Is there a gluten-free option for the sauce?
Yes, using coconut aminos as noted in the recipe naturally makes this dish gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check any other condiments or sides you serve with it to maintain gluten-free status.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?
Definitely! Snap peas, bell peppers, mushrooms, or bok choy would all be delicious additions. Add them in stages according to their cooking times so everything remains perfectly crisp-tender.
How spicy is this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes give it a mild, warm heat that complements the other flavors. You can always adjust the amount to make it milder or spicier based on your preference.
What’s the best way to make this recipe kid-friendly?
Simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder taste. You can also finely chop the vegetables so they blend in more easily, making it a hit even with picky eaters.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe—it’s quick, delicious, and packed with wholesome ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for an everyday favorite to keep in your rotation, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting taste of a homemade Asian-inspired meal that feels anything but ordinary.
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PrintEasy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that combines savory ground beef with crunchy cabbage and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this stir fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner and serves up a balanced meal with minimal fuss.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Stir Fry
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (or your favorite cooking oil)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 inch ginger (grated)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 head of cabbage (thinly sliced – about 8 cups)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Green onion slices (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, stir together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Set this sauce mixture aside as it will be added later to infuse flavor into the stir fry.
- Cook the onion: Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and slightly soft, approximately 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for the dish.
- Add ginger, garlic, and ground beef: Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic into the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned, about 5 minutes. This ensures the beef is cooked through and well incorporated with the aromatics.
- Incorporate vegetables and sauce: Add the thinly sliced cabbage, shredded carrot, and sauce mixture to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook until the cabbage is wilted and tender, and the sauce has reduced slightly, about 5 minutes. This step melds all the flavors and softens the vegetables to create a balanced texture.
- Season and garnish: Taste the stir fry and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish warm, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Use coconut aminos as a soy-free alternative to soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- For a vegetarian version, swap ground beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh.
- To save time, prep vegetables ahead or use pre-shredded carrots and pre-sliced cabbage.
