Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

Featured in: Flavor Rush

This Chinese-inspired stir-fry combines seasoned ground beef with crisp cabbage in a rich, umami-packed sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's a perfect low-carb weeknight dinner that's both satisfying and full of bold flavors. The dish features aromatic ginger and garlic, with optional heat from Sriracha. Versatile and easy to customize, you can swap proteins or add cauliflower rice for an even lighter meal.

Updated on Fri, 30 Jan 2026 22:07:04 GMT
Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry served hot with steamed rice, featuring savory beef and crisp green cabbage. Save
Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry served hot with steamed rice, featuring savory beef and crisp green cabbage. | fryflick.com

Whip up a flavorful and healthy dinner in under 30 minutes with this Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry. This dish combines juicy lean beef with the satisfying crunch of fresh cabbage, all brought together by a rich, savory umami sauce that rivals your favorite takeout.

Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry served hot with steamed rice, featuring savory beef and crisp green cabbage. Save
Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry served hot with steamed rice, featuring savory beef and crisp green cabbage. | fryflick.com

This stir-fry is a nutritional powerhouse that doesn't compromise on taste. Whether you are looking for a quick post-work meal or a meal-prep friendly option, this recipe delivers deep aromatics of ginger and garlic paired with the subtle heat of Sriracha.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
  • 1 small head green cabbage (about 1.5 lb/700 g), cored and thinly sliced
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch (2.5 cm) piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp ground white pepper
  • 1/2 tsp sugar or sweetener (optional)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
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Instructions

Step 1
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, Sriracha (if using), white pepper, and sugar/sweetener. Set aside.
Step 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes.
Step 3
Add the garlic, ginger, and white part of the green onions. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4
Add the sliced cabbage and optional carrot. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until the cabbage is just tender but still crisp.
Step 5
Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss well to coat. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce is slightly reduced.
Step 6
Remove from heat. Garnish with the green part of the green onions and serve immediately.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best texture, ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the beef to get a good sear. Avoid overcooking the cabbage; it should remain vibrant and retain a slight bite to contrast with the tender beef.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile. You can swap the ground beef for ground chicken, pork, or turkey. To make the dish gluten-free, simply use tamari and ensure your oyster sauce is a gluten-free variety.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this stir-fry on its own for a light low-carb meal, or pair it with steamed jasmine rice. For an even lower-carb option, it tastes fantastic served over a bed of steamed cauliflower rice.

This easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry recipe is topped with fresh green onions, ready for a low-carb weeknight dinner. Save
This easy Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry recipe is topped with fresh green onions, ready for a low-carb weeknight dinner. | fryflick.com

Enjoy this savory, balanced meal that brings authentic stir-fry flavors to your kitchen with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

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Recipe Guide

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or pork work excellently as substitutes for beef. Adjust cooking time slightly as leaner meats may cook faster.

How do I keep the cabbage crisp?

Cook the cabbage over high heat for 5-7 minutes only, stirring frequently. Don't overcrowd the pan, as this creates steam and makes cabbage soggy.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari and ensuring your oyster sauce is labeled gluten-free. Always check product labels carefully.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

Serve over steamed cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or pair with jasmine rice or noodles for a more traditional meal. It's also delicious on its own.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Can I make this spicier?

Absolutely! Increase the Sriracha or chili garlic sauce, add red pepper flakes, or toss in sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking for extra heat.

Chinese Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry

Quick stir-fry with tender beef, crisp cabbage, and savory umami sauce. Low-carb and ready in 25 minutes.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
15 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created by Olivia Parker


Complexity Easy

Heritage Chinese

Output 4 Portions

Dietary guidelines No dairy, Carb-Conscious

Components

Proteins

01 1 pound lean ground beef

Vegetables

01 1 small head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
02 3 green onions, sliced
03 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 1 inch piece fresh ginger, grated
05 1 medium carrot, julienned

Sauces & Seasonings

01 3 tablespoons soy sauce
02 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
03 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
04 1 tablespoon sesame oil
05 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce
06 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
07 1/2 teaspoon sugar or sweetener

Oils

01 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Method

Phase 01

Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, white pepper, and sugar. Set aside.

Phase 02

Brown the ground beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.

Phase 03

Infuse aromatics: Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and the white portions of green onions. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.

Phase 04

Cook the vegetables: Add sliced cabbage and carrot. Stir-fry for 5 to 7 minutes until cabbage is tender yet retains crispness.

Phase 05

Finish with sauce: Pour prepared sauce over the mixture and toss thoroughly to coat. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through and sauce slightly reduces.

Phase 06

Plate and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with green portions of green onions. Serve immediately.

Tools needed

  • Large wok or skillet
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula

Allergy details

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains soy from soy sauce and oyster sauce
  • Contains shellfish from oyster sauce
  • Verify all sauce labels for additional allergens

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 310
  • Fats: 19 g
  • Carbohydrates: 9 g
  • Proteins: 24 g