Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

This Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is your go-to dish for busy weeknights! With its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s not just quick to prepare but also perfect for a family meal or even meal prep. In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying dish that caters to paleo and Whole30 diets. Whether served over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles, this stir fry stands out with its delicious taste and simple preparation.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sauce
• For the Stir Fry
• For Garnish
• How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
• Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 2: Heat the Oil
• Step 3: Sauté Onions
• Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger
• Step 5: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 6: Combine Vegetables
• Step 7: Season and Serve
• How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
• Over Rice
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Noodles
• As a Salad
• How to Perfect Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
• Reheating Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry healthy?
• Can I customize Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
• How do I store leftovers of Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Health-Conscious: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s both paleo and Whole30-friendly.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preference.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of coconut aminos and sesame oil creates a deliciously rich flavor.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for preparing ahead of time and storing for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need to create this easy Asian ground beef and cabbage stir fry.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Offers ample space for frying all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Helps combine sauce ingredients smoothly, ensuring an even distribution of flavor.
• Chopping board: Provides a safe surface for cutting vegetables, keeping your kitchen tidy.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup coconut aminos
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

For the 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

For Garnish

• Green onion slices
• Sesame seeds

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How to Make Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside while you cook the stir fry.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow it to warm up for about a minute before adding other ingredients.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook while stirring frequently until they become translucent, roughly 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.

Step 5: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until browned, about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Vegetables

Stir in the shredded cabbage and carrots along with the prepared sauce. Cook while stirring until the cabbage wilts and sauce thickens—approximately 5 minutes.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste your stir fry and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor.

How to Serve Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

This delicious stir fry is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a cozy bowl or a vibrant plate, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Over Rice

• White Rice: Classic choice that absorbs the flavors of the stir fry.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option packed with fiber and nutrients.
• Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb alternative perfect for paleo or Whole30 diets.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Butter Lettuce Leaves: Soft, pliable leaves that make great handheld wraps.
• Romaine Lettuce: Crisp and sturdy, ideal for holding generous portions.

With Noodles

• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free option that complements the stir fry’s texture.
• Soba Noodles: Buckwheat noodles add a nutty flavor that’s delightful.

As a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Add fresh greens to create a light and refreshing salad topped with the stir fry.
• Cabbage Slaw: Use additional cabbage mixed with carrots for extra crunch.

How to Perfect Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

To ensure your Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture, making your dish more vibrant.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming. This helps achieve that perfect stir-fried texture.
• Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste as you go to find the right balance of flavors. Adjust salt, pepper, and spice level according to your preference.
• Preheat Your Skillet: A well-heated skillet ensures ingredients cook evenly and develop great color.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal veggies or whatever you have on hand for variety and nutrition.
• Garnish Generously: Top with green onions and sesame seeds right before serving for added flavor and presentation.

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Best Side Dishes for Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Pairing side dishes with your stir fry can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to serve alongside.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add color and nutrients; simply steam until tender.
2. Fried Rice: Flavorful rice mixed with peas, carrots, and eggs complements the stir fry beautifully.
3. Miso Soup: Light yet flavorful soup adds an authentic touch while being easy to prepare.
4. Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side that balances the savory flavors of the stir fry; quick pickling is easy!
5. Egg Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with veggies provide a crunchy contrast; store-bought versions save time.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in vinegar offer a cool complement to the warm dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the cabbage too long can make it soggy. Stir-fry just until wilted for a crisp texture.
• Using too much sauce: Adding too much sauce can overpower the dish. Start with less, and adjust to taste.
• Not browning the beef properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to bland flavors. Cook until fully browned for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting garlic and ginger will reduce flavor complexity. Always include these for a fragrant dish.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can make your stir fry flat. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the stir fry cools completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 weeks.
• Label containers with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stir fry in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for about 2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry healthy?

This dish is packed with lean protein from ground beef and fiber-rich cabbage, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Can I customize Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies or swap proteins according to your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This stir fry is perfect for meal prep; simply portion it out into containers after cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, swap ground beef for tofu or tempeh, adjusting cook times as needed.

Final Thoughts

Easy Asian Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is not only quick but also versatile! With endless customization options, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit your taste preferences. Whether you serve it over rice or noodles, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!