If you are craving a dish that is quick to whip up yet packed with layers of bold flavors and satisfying textures, then this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is exactly what you need in your weeknight dinner rotation. This vibrant stir fry brings together tender ground beef, crisp cabbage, and a deliciously savory sauce that hits all the right notes—from umami depth to just the right touch of spice. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug but comes together faster than you might expect, making it a true kitchen hero.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The brilliance of this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, crunch, and color that makes this stir fry so memorable and enjoyable.
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos: A naturally sweet and savory alternative to soy sauce that adds rich umami flavor.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness.
- 2 tsp sesame oil: Infuses the stir fry with a nutty aroma that’s absolutely irresistible.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Delivers just the right kick to awaken your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tbsp avocado oil or your favorite cooking oil: Provides a high smoke point perfect for searing and sautéing.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth that nicely complements the savory beef.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Packs a punch of bold flavor that’s essential for any great stir fry.
- 1 inch ginger, grated: Brings a fresh, zesty lift that enhances the Asian-inspired profile.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this dish nourishing and filling.
- 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced (about 8 cups): Offers a satisfying crunch and a subtle sweetness when cooked.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot: Adds a pop of color and a gentle natural sweetness for balance.
- Salt & pepper to taste: The basic seasonings that fine-tune the final flavor.
- Green onion slices and sesame seeds for garnish: Fresh, vibrant garnishes that bring texture and a finished look.
How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Begin by whisking together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Setting this sauce aside allows the flavors to meld while you work on the stir fry; it’s going to be the magic elixir that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat your chosen cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in your chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent and beautifully soft, about five minutes. This step releases sweetness from the onions, creating a rich flavor base that complements the savory beef.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Next, stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic. Cook for another minute or so until you can really smell those wonderful, fragrant aromas filling the kitchen. This brief aromatics step is crucial for layering the distinctive Asian-inspired flavors in your stir fry.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef
Now it’s time for the star of the show: the ground beef. Add it to the skillet and break it apart as it cooks for about five minutes until it’s evenly browned and no pink remains. This process develops a savory richness that forms the hearty heart of this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables with the Sauce
Throw in the thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrot, then pour your prepared sauce over everything. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Let it cook for about five minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt and the sauce thickens slightly, soaking into every bite.
Step 6: Final Taste and Serve
Before plating, take a moment to taste your stir fry and season with salt and pepper as needed. Then serve it up warm, topped generously with fresh green onion slices and sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and crunch that elevate this dish to next-level deliciousness.
How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds not only add wonderful contrast in texture but also bring freshness and nuttiness that balance the savory richness of the stir fry perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pairing this stir fry with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy cauliflower rice makes for a complete, comforting meal. If you want to add more veggies to your plate, consider serving alongside sautéed bok choy or snap peas for a crisp, vibrant touch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe in crisp lettuce cups or wrap it in warm tortillas for an Asian-inspired taco. Not only does this add a playful element to your meal, but it also makes for an easy handheld option perfect for casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from this dish store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as tasty, if not better.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe on hand for longer, it freezes well. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture of any added vegetables might soften slightly after freezing.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This helps maintain that fresh, just-cooked texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well and lighten the dish if you prefer. Just be sure to cook thoroughly and adjust seasoning to your taste since these meats are milder.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially because it uses coconut aminos instead of traditional soy sauce, which often contains gluten.
How spicy is the dish with the crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle, warm heat that can easily be adjusted—use less if you prefer milder flavors or omit entirely if you’re sensitive to spice.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the vegetables you add.
What can I use if I don’t have avocado oil?
You can substitute avocado oil with any neutral high-heat oil like canola, vegetable, or light olive oil. These will work perfectly for sautéing without overpowering the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe quickly becomes a favorite because it combines simple ingredients into a dish bursting with bold, comforting flavors and delightful textures. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, it delivers incredible taste with minimal fuss. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and make it a regular part of your culinary lineup—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it can become a staple everyone raves about!
Print
Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner perfect for busy schedules. Featuring tender ground beef, crisp cabbage, and vibrant seasonings like ginger, garlic, and a savory coconut aminos-based sauce, this dish comes together in about 25 minutes. It’s a wholesome, low-carb meal that’s delicious served on its own or with a side of steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Sauce
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Stir Fry
- 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
Garnish
- Green onion slices
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld while you get the stir fry ready.
- Sauté Onions: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step helps release the flavors of the aromatics and infuses the oil.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, for about 5 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink.
- Cook Vegetables with Sauce: Add the thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrot to the skillet, then pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt and the sauce to reduce slightly for concentrated flavor.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the stir fry and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve warm, garnished with freshly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For extra heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
- Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.
