This Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is packed with flavors and good-for-you ingredients. Tender beef, crisp cabbage, and savory sauce come together in just minutes!
If you’re short on time, this dish is a lifesaver! I love how quick it is to whip up for a busy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a tasty way to sneak some veggies into my meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: For this stir fry, I recommend using sirloin or flank steak. They are tender and cook quickly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try chicken breast or turkey. For a vegetarian version, consider using tofu or tempeh as the protein source!
Cabbage: Green cabbage is great for stir frying because it retains its crunch. If you can’t find green cabbage, napa cabbage works well too. You can also mix in other veggies like bell peppers or bok choy for added color and nutrients.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add a nice sweetness and color. If you’re short on time, pre-cut or shredded carrots save time. You can also substitute them with bell peppers or snap peas for a different taste.
Sauces: Low-sodium soy sauce helps keep the dish healthy. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos as a substitute. For the oyster sauce, you can skip it or use a plant-based version if you’re vegetarian; it adds a depth of flavor that enhances the sauce.
How Do I Achieve Tender Beef in a Stir Fry?
Getting tender beef is all about slicing it correctly and marinating. Here’s how:
- Always slice beef against the grain to break up muscle fibers and make it more tender.
- Marinate the beef briefly with soy sauce and cornstarch. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear. This keeps the meat juicy.
These simple tips will help you achieve perfectly tender beef every time in your stir fry!
Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 12 oz (340 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for depth)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or Chinese black vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp vegetable or canola oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stir fry will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes marinating the beef, and then it’s just a matter of stir-frying the ingredients together. In no time, you’ll have a wonderfully healthy meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch (from the slurry), and a pinch of black pepper. Toss everything together until the beef is well coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is just browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside. Remember not to overcrowd the pan to keep the beef tender!
3. Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the sliced green onions. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the sliced cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become tender-crisp. You want them to stay slightly crunchy while absorbing those wonderful flavors!
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the pan. Stir in the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix everything well to blend the flavors.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Pour in the cornstarch slurry and keep stirring continuously for about 1 minute or until the sauce thickens and nicely coats the beef and vegetables. If you like it saucier, feel free to add a bit more water!
7. Add Sesame Oil:
Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry and gently toss to combine all the ingredients. This gives a lovely toasted flavor!
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Balance those flavors to your liking!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the stir fry with sesame seeds and the green parts of the sliced green onions for a fresh finish. Serve hot on its own or with steamy brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
This recipe balances the freshness of cabbage with savory beef and a light, flavorful sauce that’s low in fat while packing in nutrients. Enjoy your Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Chicken breast or turkey can be great substitutes for beef. For a vegetarian option, try using tofu or tempeh, making sure to press out excess moisture for better texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to customize the stir fry with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked to your preferred tenderness!
What Can I Serve with This Stir Fry?
This stir fry is delicious served over steamed brown rice, quinoa, or even whole grain noodles. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad!
