This Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal! With tender beef, fresh cabbage, and a mix of bright veggies, it’s loaded with flavor and good for you.
I love how easy it is to whip up on busy nights. Just toss everything in the pan and voilà! Perfect for when you need a fast and filling dinner without the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Flank steak and sirloin are great options for this stir fry. If you want a leaner choice, consider using skirt steak or even chicken breast for a lighter meal.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is preferred for its crunch and sweetness. However, you can use Napa cabbage or even bok choy if you want something a bit different.
Oyster Sauce: While it’s optional, it adds a rich flavor. If you’re avoiding seafood, try using mushroom sauce as a substitute for a similar umami taste.
Hoisin Sauce: This sweet sauce balances the dish nicely. If you prefer a healthier option, you can make a homemade version with peanut butter and soy sauce.
Vegetable Oil: This is a neutral oil, but you can use canola or grapeseed oil as alternatives. For more flavor, try using sesame oil for cooking.
How Do I Get the Beef Tender and Flavorful?
Getting your beef tender and flavorful is key for this stir fry. Here’s how to do it:
- Always slice the beef against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, making it easier to chew.
- Marinate the beef with soy sauce—even a short soak of 10-15 minutes makes a difference!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking. Give the beef space to sear properly, which locks in juices.
- Remove the beef just before it’s fully cooked; it will continue cooking when added back to the vegetables.
How to Make Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 lb (450g) lean beef (such as flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or other neutral oil for cooking)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10-15 minutes of preparation time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In just about 30-35 minutes, you can have a delicious, healthy meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by thinly slicing the beef against the grain. This makes it tender and easier to chew. In a bowl, toss the beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Let it marinate while you prepare the other ingredients, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
2. Sauté Garlic and Ginger:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant, but be careful not to burn them!
3. Cook the Beef:
Add the marinated beef to the pan, laying it in a single layer. Let it sear without stirring for 1 minute. Then stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is not fully cooked but is browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside for now.
4. Stir-Fry Veggies:
In the same pan, toss in the sliced onions and carrots. Stir-fry them for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. Then add the sliced cabbage and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
5. Combine Everything:
Bring the cooked beef back into the pan. Add the remaining tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, and the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine everything effectively.
6. Thicken the Sauce:
Pour the cornstarch slurry into the pan with the beef and veggies. Stir continuously for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens and coats everything nicely.
7. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Once satisfied, take the pan off the heat.
8. Serve:
Garnish your stir fry with sliced green onions. Serve it hot alongside steamed brown rice or quinoa for a healthy, complete meal!
FAQ about Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Can I Substitute the Beef?
Absolutely! If you want to switch it up, you can use chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.
Is There a Low-Sodium Option for the Sauce?
Yes! Simply use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the oyster sauce or choose a low-sodium version. You can also enhance the flavor with additional garlic and ginger for extra depth without adding more salt.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or sauté on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This stir fry is versatile, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the vegetables you choose so they stay crisp and vibrant.
