Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

Introduction

Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a hearty, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines tender strips of beef with crispy cabbage, bell peppers, and a delicious stir-fry sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make, quick to cook, and packed with savory goodness. The stir-fry technique ensures that all the vegetables retain their crunch, while the beef is perfectly seared and coated with a rich, tangy sauce.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner after a long day, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something that’s both comforting and nutritious, Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is an excellent option. It’s loaded with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of creating this delicious stir fry, provide tips and tricks to elevate the dish, and suggest a few variations to suit different dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

• Quick and Easy: This stir fry comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the cabbage, this stir fry is both healthy and filling. The sauce is made with wholesome ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, which add tons of flavor without any unnecessary additives.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting the beef for other proteins like chicken, pork, or tofu. It’s a flexible recipe that can be tailored to your tastes.
• One-Pan Meal: This stir fry is a complete meal that only requires one pan, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll get a satisfying dinner without the hassle of washing multiple pots and pans.
• Great for Meal Prep: Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for several days, enjoying it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories, depending on specific ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 4-6g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Stir Fry Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds rich umami flavor)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
• 1 tablespoon water (if using cornstarch)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Special Equipment

For preparing this Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry, the following equipment will make the process smoother:

1. Large Skillet or Wok: You’ll need a large skillet or wok to cook the stir fry. A wok is ideal, as it allows for high heat cooking and better distribution of the ingredients, but a large skillet works just fine.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for thinly slicing the beef and vegetables. Properly slicing the beef against the grain ensures tenderness in the final dish.
3. Cutting Board: A cutting board is necessary for prepping the ingredients, including slicing the beef, vegetables, and garlic.
4. Measuring Spoons: Use measuring spoons to ensure the stir fry sauce is balanced and the seasoning is just right.
5. Small Bowl: A small bowl is needed to mix the stir fry sauce and cornstarch (if using) before adding it to the stir fry.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

Begin by slicing the beef against the grain into thin strips. This will help ensure that the beef stays tender when cooked. If you’re using a tougher cut of beef like flank steak, slicing it thinly is essential to make it easier to chew.

Once sliced, season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set it aside while you prepare the vegetables and stir fry sauce.

2. Make the Stir Fry Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, honey or brown sugar (if using), sesame oil, grated ginger, and cornstarch. If you’re using cornstarch, mix it with the water in a separate small bowl to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This sauce will add a sweet, tangy, and savory flavor to the stir fry.

3. Prepare the Vegetables

While the beef is resting, slice the red bell pepper and onion thinly, and shred the cabbage. Mince the garlic and set everything aside, ready to cook.

4. Cook the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced beef in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

5. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced onion and bell pepper, stirring frequently, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Next, add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and continue to stir-fry for another 4-5 minutes. The cabbage should soften slightly but still retain some crunch.

6. Add the Beef and Sauce

Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, return the beef to the skillet. Pour the prepared stir fry sauce over the beef and vegetables, tossing everything together to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is well combined, taste the stir fry and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve the Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry immediately, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfect Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

• Use Tender Beef Cuts: For the best results, use tender cuts of beef like sirloin or flank steak. These cuts are perfect for stir-frying because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re on a budget, you can also use ground beef or beef stew meat, but they may need longer cooking times.
• Slice Beef Thinly: To ensure your beef is tender, slice it thinly against the grain. If you have trouble slicing the beef thinly, try freezing the beef for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch of stir fry, cook the beef in batches. Overcrowding the pan can result in steaming the beef rather than searing it, which can lead to a less flavorful dish.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stir fry. Mushrooms, carrots, or snow peas would all work well in this dish. Just make sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly with the other ingredients.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter stir fry, add more honey or brown sugar. If you like it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a small amount of sriracha sauce to the stir fry.
• Use a High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat, so make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the ingredients. This will ensure the beef sears quickly and the vegetables maintain their crunch.

Variations of Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

• Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry with Noodles: Add some cooked noodles to the stir fry for a heartier dish. Simply cook your favorite noodles (rice noodles, soba, or egg noodles work well) and toss them in with the beef and vegetables before adding the sauce.
• Keto-Friendly Version: For a low-carb version, omit the noodles or rice and serve the stir fry on its own. You can also swap the honey or sugar in the sauce for a sugar substitute to make the dish keto-friendly.
• Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry with Broccoli: Add some broccoli florets to the stir fry for extra vegetables and nutrients. The broccoli will add an additional layer of flavor and texture that complements the cabbage and beef.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian or vegan option. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before stir-frying, and cook until crispy on the edges for the best texture.
• Spicy Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry: For a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add fresh sliced chili peppers or a tablespoon of sriracha sauce. This variation is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their stir-fries.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is great for storing and can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Simply store it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to eat, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stir fry for up to 3 months. When reheating, be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it up on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

• Steamed Rice: Serve the stir fry with a side of steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Egg Rolls: Pair this stir fry with some crispy egg rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
• Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled vegetables, like kimchi or pickled carrots, will add a tangy contrast to the savory stir fry.
• Soup: A light soup, such as miso soup or hot and sour soup, would pair perfectly with this stir fry.

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Conclusion

Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory stir fry sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger while keeping things light and healthy. Whether you’re making it with beef, chicken, or tofu, the combination of protein, vegetables, and a delicious sauce makes this stir fry a must-try. Enjoy!