Lorenzo Devereaux
This Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage dish is a flavor-packed stir-fry that delivers the perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich notes. The combination of tender ground beef, crisp cabbage, and a light soy-based sauce makes it both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner while still feeling like a restaurant-quality meal.
What makes this dish shine is its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a wholesome meal that pairs well with steamed rice or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. The cabbage softens beautifully while keeping a bit of crunch, and the ground beef absorbs all the sauce, making every bite irresistible.
What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?
For a healthier version of this recipe, lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) is ideal. It keeps the dish light without sacrificing flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, an 80/20 blend will add more depth due to its higher fat content, but you might want to drain the excess fat after browning.
Ingredients for the Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage
Ground Beef – The star protein that soaks up all the savory flavors.
Cabbage – Brings a natural sweetness and a slight crunch to balance the richness of the beef.
Carrots – Adds a hint of sweetness and color, making the dish visually appealing and more nutritious.
Garlic – Essential for that classic Chinese stir-fry aroma.
Ginger – A warm, slightly spicy note that brightens the entire dish.
Soy Sauce – Provides the salty, umami base of the sauce.
Oyster Sauce – Adds a deeper, slightly sweet umami flavor.
Sesame Oil – For a nutty finish that rounds out the stir-fry.
Green Onions – A fresh garnish that adds a mild oniony bite.
Cornstarch Slurry (optional) – Helps thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.
How To Make the Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add a drizzle of sesame oil, then toss in minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Add sliced cabbage and thinly sliced carrots to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the beef and aromatics. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften but still has some crunch.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a splash of water. Pour the sauce over the beef and veggies. Toss everything together to coat evenly.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water). Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Serve hot with steamed rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Serving and Storing Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage
This dish is best served immediately while the cabbage still has a slight crunch. Pair it with freshly steamed rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for extra protein. For a lighter option, serve it over cauliflower rice or enjoy it as a low-carb stir-fry bowl on its own.
To store, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the sauce.
What to Serve With Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage?
Steamed Jasmine Rice
Classic and fluffy, it perfectly absorbs the flavorful sauce.
Garlic Stir-Fried Green Beans
A crisp and garlicky side that complements the savory beef.
Egg Drop Soup
Light, warming, and ideal for balancing the stir-fry’s rich flavors.
Pickled Cucumbers
A refreshing, tangy side that cuts through the savory notes.
Spring Rolls
For a crunchy appetizer or side dish with contrasting textures.
Spicy Kimchi
Adds a fiery, fermented bite that pairs well with the umami flavors.
Sesame Noodles
A nutty, slightly sweet noodle dish that’s great as a side or second main.
Want More Ground Beef Recipes?
If you love this Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage, you’ll probably enjoy these other delicious ground beef creations:
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe – A comforting pasta dish with rich, creamy sauce.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta – A quick one-pan dinner for busy nights.
• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – Perfect for a hearty, cheesy bake.
• Cheesy Hamburger Casserole – A family-friendly, cheesy favorite.
• Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir-Fry Recipe – A healthy, veggie-packed alternative.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up with chili flakes? Did you swap in ground turkey for a lighter twist?
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Healthy Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage
Equipment
- Skillet or Wok
- Spatula
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 450 g ground beef
- 4 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 pieces green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain fat if necessary.
- Push beef aside, add sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cabbage and carrots. Cook 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
- Mix soy sauce and oyster sauce with a splash of water. Pour over beef and vegetables.
- Optional: add cornstarch slurry, cook 1–2 minutes until thickened.
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.