Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Looking for a delicious and healthy dish that comes together in just 15 minutes? This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is packed with bold flavors, authentic techniques, and simple ingredients. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes!
• Authentic Chinese Flavors: Uses traditional stir-fry techniques and seasonings.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Loaded with cabbage, fresh peppers, and lean ground beef.
• Customizable: Swap the protein or adjust spice levels to your preference.
• Perfect with Rice: A complete meal when served over steamed rice.

Tools Needed

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• Wok or Large Skillet: Ideal for high-heat stir-frying.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Mixing Bowls: Perfect for preparing the sauce ahead of time.
• Tongs or Spatula: Helps toss ingredients evenly.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 fresh red chili peppers (or substitute with red bell pepper)
• 2 dried Chinese chili peppers (seeds removed)
• 2 green onions, chopped (whites and greens separated)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (Chinese sweet rice wine)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons black vinegar (or substitute with balsamic vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or substitute with mushroom sauce for vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons chili oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop cabbage, onion, green onions, garlic, and ginger. Remove seeds from fresh and dried chili peppers.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same wok, add chili oil, garlic, ginger, and dried chili peppers. Stir-fry until fragrant.
4. Deglaze with Shaoxing Wine: Pour in Shaoxing wine and cook until alcohol evaporates.
5. Cook the Vegetables: Add onion and fresh chili peppers, stirring until softened. Then, add cabbage and toss until slightly wilted.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked beef to the wok, add the sauce, and stir to coat all ingredients evenly.
7. Final Touch: Add green onion tops, stir, and serve immediately.
8. Serve: Best enjoyed over steamed rice with a drizzle of sauce from the wok.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Tips for Perfect Chinese Ground Beef Stir-Fry Recipe

• Use High Heat: Ensures a proper stir-fry with great texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Remove it from the wok after browning to keep it juicy.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust sweetness and acidity to your taste.
• Prep Everything First: Stir-frying is fast-paced, so have all ingredients ready.
• Deglaze Properly: Shaoxing wine enhances flavor but must be cooked off.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or Sriracha.
• Vegetarian Option: Use firm tofu instead of beef and mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free vinegar.
• Extra Crunch: Add sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a wok over medium heat with a splash of water.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as cabbage texture may change.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Sauce Prep: Having your sauce mixed beforehand speeds up cooking.
• Overcrowding the Wok: Cook in batches to maintain high heat.
• Not Removing Chili Pepper Seeds: The dish can become overly spicy if left in.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Let ingredients come to room temperature before cooking.
• Forgetting the Final Toss: Ensure an even coating of sauce by tossing thoroughly.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of protein?
A: Yes! Chicken, pork, or shrimp work well in this recipe.

Q: What if I don’t have Shaoxing wine?
A: Substitute with dry sherry or chicken broth.

Q: How can I make this dish milder?
A: Reduce the number of dried chili peppers or use bell peppers instead.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, cook the beef and prep the veggies in advance for a quicker meal.

Q: What’s the best way to serve this dish?
A: Over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With a balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine!