This Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is quick, colorful, and full of flavors. With tender beef and crunchy cabbage, it makes the perfect meal for busy nights!
Who knew eating healthy could be this tasty? I love how the crispy cabbage pairs perfectly with the beef, making it a dish that feels like a treat every time! 🥢
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up. Just toss everything in the pan, give it a stir, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time. Your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lean Beef: I recommend flank steak or sirloin for tender results. If you prefer a non-red meat option, try chicken breast or tofu instead. Both hold up well in stir-fries and soak up flavors nicely!
Green Cabbage: This is essential for crunch and volume. If you can’t find it, Napa cabbage or bok choy are great alternatives. They have a lovely texture and flavor that works well in stir-fry dishes.
Carrot: I love adding carrots for sweetness and color. You can switch this out with bell pepper or snap peas, which add a different crunch and sweetness to the dish!
Oyster Sauce: It adds depth, but is optional. For a vegetarian option, use mushroom sauce or simply add extra soy sauce for flavor.
Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce. If you’re avoiding cornstarch, you can use arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour as a substitute for a similar effect.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in My Stir Fry?
Getting tender beef in your stir fry is all about slicing it correctly and cooking it briefly. Follow these tips:
- Cut the beef against the grain into thin strips; this breaks down muscle fibers, making it tender.
- Make sure your skillet or wok is hot to quickly sear the beef, which helps retain moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook the beef in batches if needed to ensure it’s seared evenly.
These steps will keep your beef juicy and delicious, making your stir fry a hit!
Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Stir Fry:
- 12 oz (340g) lean beef (such as flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional for color and sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for depth)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or avocado oil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix it all together and set it aside so the flavors can meld.
2. Make the Cornstarch Slurry:
In another small bowl, stir the cornstarch and water together to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce later on.
3. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef, season it lightly with salt and pepper, and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and nearly cooked through. Once done, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
4. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Add the Veggies:
Now, add the sliced cabbage and carrot to the pan. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes or until the cabbage starts to soften while still retaining some crunch.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the pan and pour the sauce mixture over everything. Stir well to ensure everything is nicely coated.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Add the cornstarch slurry to the stir fry. Cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. It should cling beautifully to the beef and vegetables.
8. Final Seasoning:
Give it a taste and feel free to add more salt and pepper to suit your preference. Adjusting the seasoning at this point is key!
9. Serve and Garnish:
Remove from heat and transfer the stir fry to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy your Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, brimming with flavors and nutrition! It’s perfect served over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with chicken, turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables may require longer to soften compared to cabbage or carrots.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If it seems dry, you can add a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables and slice the meat ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. However, for the best texture, it’s best to cook it fresh, as stir fries are best enjoyed right after they are made!
