If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and flavor-packed dinner that comes together in no time, then this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is the perfect recipe for you. This savory dish combines tender ground beef with crisp cabbage, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic spices for a meal that’s satisfying and delicious. It’s the kind of dish that’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight rotation, thanks to its simplicity, wholesome ingredients, and vibrant flavors.
Why Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a Must-Try
Chinese-inspired stir-fries are beloved for their ability to create delicious, hearty meals in a fraction of the time it takes to prepare a traditional dinner. This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry recipe takes full advantage of that speed and ease, delivering a meal that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a busy weeknight. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and mushrooms creates a satisfying meal, while the soy sauce, sesame oil, and oyster sauce provide the perfect depth of flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a quick, flavorful dinner for one, this dish checks all the boxes.
The best part about stir-fries like this one is how easily they can be tailored to your preferences. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the level of seasoning based on your taste. The versatility of this dish makes it a go-to for anyone who loves a quick, homemade meal.
Ingredients for Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
This stir fry requires simple, easy-to-find ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
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1 pound ground beef – Ground beef provides the base for this dish, offering a hearty, protein-packed foundation.
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4 cups green cabbage, sliced – Cabbage adds crunch and freshness, balancing the rich beef and savory sauces.
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1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced – Shiitake mushrooms provide a deep, earthy flavor, but you can use any variety of mushrooms you like.
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4 green onions, chopped – Green onions add a mild, fresh onion flavor that complements the richness of the beef.
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2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is essential for adding aromatic depth to any stir fry.
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1-inch ginger, minced – Fresh ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy note to the dish, a hallmark of many Chinese-inspired recipes.
Sauces and Oils:
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3 tablespoons soy sauce – Soy sauce brings saltiness and umami, which are the building blocks of this dish’s flavor.
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional) – If you want to enhance the umami flavor, the oyster sauce is a great addition, but it’s optional if you prefer a lighter sauce.
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1 tablespoon sesame oil – Sesame oil provides a nutty, rich flavor that’s key to Chinese stir-fries.
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking) – Vegetable oil is used to sauté the ingredients in the pan.
Seasoning:
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Salt and pepper to taste – These basic seasonings round out the flavor and bring everything together.
For Serving:
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Cooked rice – Serve this stir fry over steamed rice to create a complete meal that’s both satisfying and filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Making this stir fry is quick and straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal ready in less than 30 minutes:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break up the beef as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Cook the beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, drain it off to avoid a greasy dish.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Once the beef is browned and cooked through, it’s time to add the aromatics. Stir in the minced garlic, minced ginger, and chopped green onions. Sauté everything together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic and ginger to release their fragrance. This step is key for building flavor, as the heat helps bring out the essential oils in the garlic and ginger.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Now, it’s time to add the cabbage and mushrooms. Add the sliced cabbage and mushrooms to the skillet, stirring everything together. Cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage wilts slightly but still retains some crispness. The mushrooms will soften and release their moisture, adding a deep umami flavor to the dish.
Step 4: Season the Stir Fry
Once the vegetables are tender-crisp, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the stir fry is ready, serve it over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with additional chopped green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy the meal hot, and relish in the combination of savory beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful seasonings.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few tips to help you make the best stir fry possible:
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Use a large skillet or wok: A spacious cooking surface ensures that your ingredients cook evenly without crowding. This helps with getting that perfect sear on the beef and vegetables.
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Adjust the seasoning: If you prefer a more intense flavor, feel free to add a bit more soy sauce or a dash of chili flakes for heat. The beauty of stir-fry is how adaptable it is to your taste preferences.
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Add extra veggies: This recipe is flexible, so you can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to boost the nutrition and flavor.
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Rice options: Serve the stir fry over any type of rice you prefer—brown rice for a healthier option or jasmine rice for a fragrant, soft texture.
Nutritional Information
This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is not only delicious but also a nutritious meal. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving (based on 4 servings):
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Calories: 350-400
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Protein: 25-30 grams
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Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams (depending on rice used)
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Fat: 20-25 grams
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Fiber: 3-4 grams
This dish is rich in protein from the ground beef and provides a good amount of fiber from the cabbage and mushrooms. The sesame oil offers healthy fats, making it a well-balanced meal.
Why This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This stir-fry recipe is ideal for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and requires minimal prep. With a cooking time of about 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying, flavorful meal on the table in no time. Plus, it uses common ingredients that are often found in your pantry or fridge, making it easy to whip up even when you’re short on time or ingredients.
The recipe is also easily customizable, allowing you to swap out ingredients based on what you have available. Don’t have mushrooms? No problem—try using bell peppers or snap peas. Want a spicier kick? Add some chili paste or fresh red chilies. This flexibility makes the recipe perfect for those nights when you want a healthy dinner but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, here are a few other recipes that you’ll enjoy. These dishes feature similar ingredients or cooking methods, perfect for anyone who loves stir-fried meals and flavorful bowls.
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Grilled Shrimp Bowl – A deliciously smoky shrimp dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a light dinner.
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Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl – A vibrant, zesty rice bowl featuring juicy chicken and grilled street corn, ideal for a fresh and healthy meal.
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Sweet Chili Chicken – Tender chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy chili sauce that pairs wonderfully with steamed rice.
FAQs About Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This stir fry can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer turkey, chicken, or pork, feel free to substitute the ground beef with your choice of protein. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you use.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you need a gluten-free version of this stir fry, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Oyster sauce contains gluten, so skip that ingredient or use a gluten-free version if you can find one.
Can I add more vegetables to this stir fry?
Yes! This recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to add any other vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, to make it even more nutritious and flavorful.
Conclusion
This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a fantastic choice for a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition. It’s simple to make, requires minimal prep time, and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal that comes together in a flash, this stir fry is sure to hit the spot. Don’t forget to try some of the related recipes, and enjoy the world of delicious stir-fries!
Print
Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry: Quick & Tasty
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, savory dish loaded with tender beef, crisp cabbage, and earthy shiitake mushrooms. It’s seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of oyster sauce (optional), making it a flavorful, satisfying meal. Perfect for busy nights, this stir fry comes together in just 20 minutes and pairs perfectly with steamed rice.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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4 cups green cabbage, sliced
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1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or any preferred mushrooms)
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4 green onions, chopped (plus additional for garnish)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 inch ginger, minced
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Cooked rice (for serving)
Instructions
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Cook Ground Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, ginger, and green onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add Vegetables: Add sliced cabbage and mushrooms to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
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Season: Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
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Serve: Spoon the stir fry over cooked rice and garnish with additional green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
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Substitutes: If you don’t have shiitake mushrooms, feel free to use button or cremini mushrooms.
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Flavor Boost: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg