Irresistible Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Name: Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch fresh ginger, grated; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

July 6, 2025

Updated:

July 6, 2025

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There’s something magical about a sizzling wok filled with colorful vegetables and savory ground beef. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare a delectable Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry. It’s a dish that not only delights your taste buds but also makes your kitchen feel like an Asian bistro, minus the waitstaff and the overpriced menu.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my kids thought I had transformed into a culinary magician. With vibrant colors and bold flavors, this stir-fry shines on busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you just want to whip up something quick yet satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
The flavors blend beautifully, offering a delightful mix of savory and umami in every bite
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and exciting for the whole family
You can easily customize ingredients based on what you have in your fridge, adding versatility to your meal planning

When I made this for my family last week, their reactions were priceless; they couldn’t stop asking for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
Cabbage: Choose fresh green cabbage for crunch; it adds texture and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will elevate the flavor; minced finely for maximum aroma during cooking.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and spice; peel and grate before adding to release its flavor.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while enhancing the overall taste.
Sesame Oil: A splash of sesame oil at the end gives a nutty aroma that ties everything together.
Vegetable Oil: Use this for frying; it has a high smoke point, making it perfect for stir-frying.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness; sprinkle them on top before serving for extra flair.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Add these if you love some heat in your stir-fry; adjust based on preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all ingredients. Chop the cabbage into thin strips, mince garlic, and grate ginger to ensure everything is ready when you need it.

Heat Your Wok or Skillet: Place your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Sauté Garlic and Ginger First: Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger once the oil is hot. Sauté them until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds; enjoy that heavenly aroma!

Add Ground Beef to Cook Through: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef. Cook until browned completely, breaking it apart with your spatula as you go – around 5-7 minutes.

Toss in Cabbage and Seasonings: Once beef is cooked, add cabbage along with soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well until cabbage wilts but retains some crunch – about 3-5 minutes.

Serve It Up!: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately over rice or noodles for a complete meal that will impress anyone at your dinner table.

Enjoy making this delicious Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry that’s sure to become a family favorite!

You Must Know

This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry offers a delightful balance of flavors
With its savory beef and crunchy cabbage, it’s a meal that’s quick to prepare yet satisfying
The aromas of garlic and ginger will make your kitchen feel like a bustling takeout joint

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by browning the ground beef first. Then, add garlic and ginger before tossing in the cabbage for a tender-crisp finish.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your stir-fry with bell peppers or carrots for extra color. A splash of soy sauce or sesame oil can elevate the flavor even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stir-fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until hot throughout.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high heat while cooking to caramelize the beef and cabbage, enhancing their flavors
Always taste as you go; adjusting seasonings can make a big difference
Don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps everything crisp and delicious!

It was a rainy Saturday when I whipped up this dish for my family. Watching their faces light up as they dug in reminded me why I love cooking so much.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Chicken works well too; just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge and tastes great reheated.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal packed with flavor.

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