This Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal! Tender beef and crunchy cabbage are mixed with tasty sauces to make every bite delicious.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something healthy without all the fuss. I love serving it over rice for a filling meal that doesn’t weigh you down!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using flank steak or sirloin for tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try lean cuts like top round or even turkey if you want a lighter protein.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is great, but you can use Napa cabbage or bok choy for a different texture and flavor. Both are delicious options and add a unique twist!
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil works, but I like using avocado oil for its high smoke point. If you’re health-conscious, consider olive oil, though it has a lower smoke point.
Oyster Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor, but if you’re vegetarian or want to skip it, you can use soy sauce or hoisin sauce as an alternative. It won’t be the same, but still good!
Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce nicely. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can swap cornstarch with arrowroot powder. Just mix it with cold water same way!
What’s the Best Way to Slice Beef for Stir Fry?
Slicing beef correctly is crucial for tenderness and flavor absorption. Always slice against the grain, which means cutting across the muscle fibers. This shortens them and makes the beef easier to chew.
- First, put the beef in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up; this makes slicing easier.
- Use a sharp knife and cut thinly for quicker cooking.
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper before cooking, so the flavors enhance the beef!
How Can I Make Sure My Cabbage Stays Crunchy?
A key to maintaining the crunchiness of cabbage is to avoid overcooking it. Stir-fry it quickly over high heat, which allows it to soften slightly while keeping its bite.
- Cook cabbage for only 3-4 minutes until it wilts but still has a vibrant color.
- If you prefer your cabbage crisper, add it to the pan later, after you’ve cooked the garlic and ginger.
Enjoy your Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry! It’s a great mix of flavors and textures that comes together in no time.
Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 12 oz (340 g) lean flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 3 green onions, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick 20-minute meal! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by slicing your flank steak or sirloin thinly against the grain. Slicing against the grain helps keep the meat tender. Toss the beef slices with a pinch of salt and pepper to season and add flavor.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set this sauce mixture aside; it will add delicious flavor to your stir fry!
3. Cook the Beef:
In a large wok or skillet, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the beef slices in a single layer—let them cook undisturbed for about 1 minute to get a nice sear. Then stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beef is nearly cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set it aside.
4. Sauté Aromatics:
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the wok. Toss in the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the chopped green onions. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant—this step adds a ton of flavor!
5. Add the Cabbage:
Next, add the sliced cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften but retains some crunch. Remember, we want it bright and vibrant!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the beef to the wok along with the sauce mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well coated and heated through. It should smell amazing!
7. Thicken the Sauce:
Pour the cornstarch slurry into the wok. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the beef and cabbage—this will only take a minute or so.
8. Final Seasoning:
If you’d like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Remove your stir fry from the heat and garnish with the green parts of the chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you like. Serve hot over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Enjoy!
This Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is not only quick to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy this delicious meal with family or friends for a wholesome dinner!
FAQ for Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Can I Use Beef Other Than Flank Steak or Sirloin?
Absolutely! You can use any lean cut of beef, such as top round or even thinly sliced pork or chicken. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for tenderness.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian or Vegan?
To make it vegetarian or vegan, substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh, and use a plant-based oyster sauce or skip it altogether. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers and carrots for extra flavor and nutrition!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Stir Fry?
Yes! It’s a great way to clean out your vegetable drawer. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, broccoli, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition!
These FAQs should help clarify common questions and adjustments for your Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry. Enjoy cooking!
