This Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal! Juicy beef mingles with crunchy cabbage and bright veggies, bringing color and flavor to your plate.
I love making this stir fry because it’s so simple. Just chop, toss, and stir-fry. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. Your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lean Beef: I like using flank steak for its flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can also use sirloin, or even chicken or tofu for a leaner option.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is great for this stir fry because it holds its crunch. You could easily swap it with Napa cabbage or even bok choy for a different texture.
Carrot: Fresh carrot adds a nice color and sweetness. If you don’t have carrots, bell peppers or snap peas are excellent substitutes that will give you that fresh crunch.
Sauces: Low-sodium soy sauce keeps it healthy, but if you need to avoid soy entirely, try coconut aminos or tamari. Omit the oyster sauce for a vegetarian option!
Sesame Oil: This adds great flavor, but feel free to replace it with a bit of olive oil if you’re out. However, I find that sesame oil gives a distinct flavor that’s hard to beat!
How Do I Make Sure My Beef Stays Tender?
Getting tender beef is all about the slicing and cooking method. Here’s how:
- Always cut your beef against the grain. This helps break up the fibers and makes it more tender.
- Don’t overcook the beef. As soon as it browns, take it out. It will continue cooking a bit more when you add it back in later.
- Marinating the beef for about 15-30 minutes in a little soy sauce or cornstarch can also help keep it juicy.
With these tips, you’ll have a stir fry that’s flavorful and satisfying every time!
Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1/2 lb (225g) lean beef (such as flank steak), thinly sliced
- 3 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, can be reduced or omitted for healthier version)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or other neutral oil) for cooking
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious stir fry will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook. So, in just 25 minutes, you’ll have a fresh and healthy meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch dissolved in the beef broth or water. Give it a good stir to mix everything together, and then set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. You want the beef to just start browning but not fully cook; it will finish cooking later. When it’s ready, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
In the same wok, add the minced garlic, ginger, and onion. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until they become aromatic and fragrant.
4. Add the Veggies:
Now it’s time to add the carrot and cabbage! Stir-fry the veggies for 3-4 minutes, or until they’re tender but still have a nice crunch.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the pan. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, so the beef is fully cooked, and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season and Garnish:
Before serving, taste your stir fry and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you like. It adds a lovely finishing touch!
Serve your Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry hot, along with steamed brown rice or your preferred whole grain for a satisfying, nutritious meal!
FAQ for Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Can I Use a Different Protein in This Stir Fry?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken, shrimp, or tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly — tofu may need a few more minutes to crisp up if you’re using firm tofu.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce can do wonders! You could also toss in some sliced fresh chili peppers when stir-frying the garlic and ginger for an extra kick.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Slice the beef, chop the vegetables, and mix the sauce a day before. Store everything separately in the refrigerator. Stir-frying is quick and can be done in under 15 minutes, making it a great option for a weeknight meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up gently in a skillet or microwave. If it seems dry, just add a splash of water or broth while reheating to bring back some moisture.
