If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, quick to whip up, and wonderfully satisfying, this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. It’s a perfect harmony of tender ground beef, crisp cabbage, and a savory sauce that brings everything together in a vibrant, colorful meal. Whether you’re short on time or just want something both healthy and delicious, this stir fry checks all the boxes with easy ingredients, minimal prep, and big taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this dish truly shine, you only need simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that unmistakable Asian-inspired essence that makes this stir fry so irresistible.
- Coconut aminos: A tasty, gluten-free alternative to soy sauce that adds rich umami depth without overpowering the dish.
- Rice vinegar: Offers a subtle tang that brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the beef.
- Sesame oil: Just a little goes a long way in delivering that signature nutty aroma and warmth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle kick, giving the dish an exciting hint of heat.
- Avocado oil: Perfect for high-heat cooking and keeps the beef nicely browned and flavorful.
- Onion, chopped: Builds a fragrant base with its natural sweetness and slight crunch when cooked.
- Garlic, minced: Essential for that savory backbone and aromatic punch.
- Ginger, grated: Brings a fresh, spicy zest that complements both the meat and veggies effortlessly.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein star that’s rich and satisfying, soaking up all those beautiful flavors.
- Cabbage, thinly sliced: Adds incredible texture with its crisp yet tender bite while absorbing the sauce perfectly.
- Shredded carrot: Introduces a lovely pop of color and natural sweetness to brighten the plate.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that sharpen and round out all the taste layers.
- Green onion slices and sesame seeds: For garnish, they bring a fresh crunch and eye-catching finish.
How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the sauce
Start by whisking together the coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This combination forms the flavor-packed sauce that will coat every ingredient with a delicious glaze, so make sure it’s mixed well before moving on to stir fry.
Step 2: Sauté the onion
Heat your avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it gently, stirring occasionally until it turns translucent and tender. This step softens the onion’s sharpness and releases its natural sweetness, setting up a lovely flavor base.
Step 3: Infuse with garlic and ginger
Add the grated ginger and minced garlic next and let them cook briefly—about a minute—until their amazing aromas burst forth. This brief cooking time helps these fresh ingredients reveal their full flavor without becoming bitter or burnt.
Step 4: Brown the ground beef
Now it’s time for the star: ground beef. Add it to the skillet and break it apart with your spoon while cooking for around five minutes. Make sure it’s fully browned with no pink spots remaining. All that wonderful beefy flavor is the ultimate savory foundation for the stir fry.
Step 5: Cook the veggies with sauce
Stir in the thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrot. Pour in the sauce mixture you made earlier and toss everything together. Continue cooking for about five minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly and the sauce to thicken and cling beautifully to every bite.
Step 6: Season and garnish
Give it a quick taste, then season with salt and pepper as you like. Finish this dish with a generous sprinkle of fresh green onion slices and toasted sesame seeds to add vibrant color and a subtle crunch that completes the experience perfectly.
How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling your stir fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds isn’t just pretty—it elevates the dish with freshness and a gentle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender beef and cabbage. You might also try a squeeze of lime for a pop of brightness or a drizzle of sriracha if you like things spicy.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up every last bit of sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a similar texture without the grains. Light sides like a crisp cucumber salad or simple miso soup also complement the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stir fry inside lettuce cups for a fresh and hands-on meal that kids and adults alike will love. You can also turn it into a noodle bowl by tossing in cooked rice noodles or serve over quinoa for added protein and texture contrast. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro can bring an added layer of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftover stir fry into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This dish actually tastes great the next day, as the flavors continue to meld and deepen.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe later, it freezes well. Pack portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to prevent the vegetables from getting too soggy. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce. Alternatively, use a microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly without drying out the beef.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles all work wonderfully in this stir fry. Just adjust cooking times until your choice is fully cooked and browned.
Is coconut aminos the same as soy sauce?
Not quite. Coconut aminos is a soy-free, gluten-free sauce made from fermented coconut sap. It’s slightly sweeter and less salty than soy sauce, making it a great alternative, especially for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage and carrot to save time?
Yes, using pre-shredded vegetables can speed up prep without sacrificing taste. Just make sure they’re fresh and crisp for the best texture in your stir fry.
How spicy is this Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild to moderate heat level that can be easily adjusted. If you prefer less spice, start with half the amount or leave it out entirely and add chili sauce on the side.
What can I do to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Simply mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the skillet near the end of cooking. This will help thicken the sauce quickly without altering the flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is truly a gem to have in your culinary repertoire. It’s fast, flavorful, wholesome, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or close friends, it brings everyone together around the table with smiles and happy appetites. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
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: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful weeknight meal combining savory ground beef with crunchy cabbage and a tangy, slightly spicy sauce. Perfectly balanced with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness from coconut aminos, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
For the 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
- Green onion slices and sesame seeds for garnish
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 while you prepare the stir fry.
- Sauté the onion: Heat the 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 ginger and garlic: Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and aromatic, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for about 5 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink.
- Combine vegetables and sauce: Add the thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrot to the skillet along with the prepared sauce. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes until the cabbage wilts and the sauce reduces slightly.
- Season and serve: Taste the stir fry and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve warm, garnished with freshly sliced green onions and a scattering of sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer more heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha.
- For gluten-free individuals, ensure your sesame oil and rice vinegar are certified gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of water or broth if the stir fry looks dry while cooking.
