This quick and delicious Asian ground beef and cabbage stir fry is packed with savory flavors, tender-crisp vegetables, and a rich, umami sauce. It’s a perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights, ready in under 30 minutes. Serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete dish. Plus, it’s paleo and Whole30-friendly, making it a great choice for various dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Healthy & Balanced – Loaded with protein and fiber.
- Customizable – Swap the protein, adjust the spice, or add more veggies.
- Diet-Friendly – Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, and Whole30-compliant.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before starting, gather all your ingredients and tools to ensure smooth cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok – Provides even cooking and enough space for stir-frying.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Helps break up the ground beef without scratching cookware.
- Sharp knife & cutting board – Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
- Mixing bowls – Useful for combining the sauce ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- ½ cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce for a non-paleo option)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
For the Stir Fry
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or any preferred cooking oil)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced (about 8 cups)
- ½ cup shredded carrot
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Green onions (sliced) & sesame seeds (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
- Set the sauce aside while preparing the stir fry.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until translucent.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the Vegetables & Sauce
- Stir in shredded cabbage and carrots.
- Pour in the prepared sauce and mix well.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the cabbage softens and the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
5. Taste & Adjust Seasoning
- Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This stir fry is versatile and can be served in multiple ways to suit different preferences.
- Over Steamed Rice – A classic option that pairs well with the flavorful sauce.
- With Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb alternative for a lighter meal.
- Over Noodles – Use rice noodles, soba noodles, or zucchini noodles for variety.
- As a Lettuce Wrap Filling – Spoon the stir fry into lettuce cups for a fresh and crunchy bite.
- With a Fried Egg on Top – Adds protein and richness to the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe
1. Overcooking the Cabbage
Cabbage should be tender but still have a slight crunch. Cooking it too long can make it mushy and watery. To prevent this, stir-fry over medium-high heat and remove from heat once softened.
2. Skipping the Aromatics
Garlic and ginger add depth to the dish. Skipping them results in a bland stir fry. Always sauté them briefly before adding other ingredients.
3. Not Browning the Beef Properly
Ground beef should be fully browned before adding the vegetables. If it’s not cooked through, the dish may have an unbalanced texture and flavor. Cook the beef until no pink remains and it develops a slight crust for the best taste.
4. Adding Too Much Sauce
Too much liquid can make the stir fry watery. Start with the recommended amount of sauce, then add more as needed. If the dish seems too wet, allow it to cook uncovered for a few minutes to let excess moisture evaporate.
5. Using High Heat Without Stirring
Since this is a stir fry, frequent stirring is necessary to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. Use medium-high heat and stir often.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with This Stir Fry
Pairing this dish with a complementary side makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
The mild flavor of jasmine rice balances the savory stir fry sauce perfectly.
2. Cauliflower Rice
A great alternative for those following a low-carb or Whole30 diet.
3. Garlic Green Beans
Sautéed with garlic and sesame oil, green beans add a fresh and crunchy contrast.
4. Miso Soup
A light and flavorful soup that complements the umami flavors of the stir fry.
5. Asian Cucumber Salad
A tangy and refreshing salad made with cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds.
6. Egg Drop Soup
A simple yet comforting soup that pairs well with the rich flavors of the dish.
7. Sesame Roasted Broccoli
Oven-roasted broccoli with sesame seeds and a hint of soy sauce for added crunch and depth.
8. Spring Rolls
Fresh or crispy spring rolls with a dipping sauce can make the meal feel more complete.
Each of these side dishes enhances the flavors and textures of the stir fry, creating a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze portions in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
Recipe Tips & Variations
Boost the Vegetables
Add bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make it Spicier
Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha or chili paste for extra heat.
Switch the Protein
Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef. For a plant-based version, crumbled tofu or tempeh works well.
Thicken the Sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of arrowroot powder or cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then stir it into the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.
Lower the Sodium
Use reduced-sodium coconut aminos or soy sauce to control salt levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this stir fry is great for meal prep. Store in individual portions and reheat as needed.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or finely chopped mushrooms.
What can I use instead of coconut aminos?
Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari can be used as an alternative.
How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?
Cook it just until it starts to soften and avoid over-stirring to maintain some crunch.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of stir-frying.
Conclusion
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal that fits into various diets. Whether you are meal-prepping or looking for a fast weeknight dinner, this dish is a great choice.
Try it with different vegetables, proteins, or spice levels to suit your taste. Serve with rice, noodles, or a side of greens for a balanced meal.
This recipe is easy to customize, making it a go-to option for busy schedules. Enjoy a delicious homemade stir fry without the need for takeout.
Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients
Sauce
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Stir Fry
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or preferred cooking oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1- inch piece of ginger grated
- 1 head of cabbage thinly sliced (about 8 cups)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Green onion slices and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, carrots, and prepared sauce. Cook, stirring, until the cabbage softens and the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Adjust the spice level: Increase the red pepper flakes for more heat or omit them for a milder dish.
Protein swaps: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.
Storage Tips Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 weeks for longer storage.
Meal Prep Tips Allow the stir fry to cool completely before portioning into containers.
For a complete meal, add a base of rice before topping with the stir fry.
Seal and refrigerate, then reheat in the microwave for about 2 minutes before serving.
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