This Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is quick to make and super tasty! With tender beef and fresh cabbage, it’s a great mix of flavors and crunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Lean cuts like flank steak or sirloin are best for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter stir fry.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is traditional, but feel free to use napa cabbage for a slightly sweeter taste or kale for added nutrients.
Carrot: This is optional but adds color and sweetness. You can substitute with bell peppers or snap peas if you prefer.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium levels but you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute.
Oyster Sauce: This gives depth to the dish but is optional. You can skip it or use vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms.
How Do I Make Perfect Stir-Fried Beef?
The key to the perfect stir-fried beef is to slice it thinly against the grain. This helps the meat stay tender. Marinating the beef briefly with cornstarch and soy sauce is essential as it adds flavor and helps in making the beef juicy.
- Marinate sliced beef for at least 10 minutes. This tenderizes the meat.
- Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the beef; this ensures a nice sear and keeps the meat tender.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—stir fry in batches if needed to avoid steaming the beef.
With these tips, your stir fry will be delicious every time!
Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients:
Beef & Vegetables:
- 12 oz (340 g) lean beef (such as flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 small carrot, julienned (optional for color)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
Sauces & Seasonings:
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for flavor depth)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 5-8 minutes to cook, making the total time around 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a medium bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and a pinch of black pepper. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), water, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if you’re using them). Mix well and set this aside.
3. Cook the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef to the pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until it’s just browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside for now.
4. Stir-Fry Garlic and Ginger:
In the same pan, add minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. Make sure not to burn them!
5. Add the Vegetables:
Now, add the sliced cabbage (and carrots if you’re using them). Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the cabbage is just starting to soften but still has a nice crunch.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the beef to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over everything. Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the sauce is well distributed.
7. Final Touches:
Stir in the green onions for a fresh touch. Remove from the heat, and if you’d like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top as a garnish.
8. Serve!
Plate your delicious stir fry hot, over steamed brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthy finish. Enjoy your Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry!
FAQ for Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Can I Use A Different Protein Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with chicken, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the protein you choose.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This stir fry pairs excellently with steamed brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. You can also serve it with quinoa for added protein!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or soy sauce to help revive the flavors.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or any other vegetables you enjoy. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked but still crunchy!
