Tender beef and crisp cabbage come together in this savory stir-fried beef and cabbage dish, perfect for quick and satisfying weeknight meals. This recipe showcases a delicate balance of flavors, thanks to soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces, along with the subtle warmth of garlic and ginger. As a versatile, healthy meal, stir-fried beef and cabbage can easily be served with rice or noodles, creating a complete dish that’s both comforting and packed with savory umami goodness.
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- Optional: 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- To start, combine the sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a mixing bowl.
- Ensure the beef is thoroughly coated, mixing well. Allow the beef to marinate for 10-15 minutes; this tenderizes it and infuses it with flavor.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Meanwhile, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil in a small bowl.
- Blend the ingredients until smooth, then set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Next, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Carefully arrange the marinated beef in a single layer in the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef browns around the edges. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Cabbage
- Using the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed to prevent sticking.
- Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until their aroma becomes fragrant.
- Now, add the chopped cabbage and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly while keeping some crunch.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- At this stage, return the cooked beef to the skillet, pour in the prepared sauce, and add the beef broth or water.
- Stir to coat the beef and cabbage evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is well absorbed and the cabbage reaches a tender-crisp texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- For a finishing touch, garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve this savory stir-fried beef and cabbage hot over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
Variation
- Spicy Kick: For extra heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha.
- Low-Sodium Option: Consider using low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the sodium content, making the dish more heart-friendly.
- Add Vegetables: Alternatively, incorporate thinly sliced bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
- Meat Alternative: You can substitute the beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
Cooking Note
- Marinating Tip: Marinating the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch not only infuses flavor but also creates a tender, juicy texture by helping the beef retain its moisture during cooking.
- Cabbage Texture: Avoid overcooking the cabbage, as it’s best when it retains some crunch to provide texture contrast in the dish.
- Avoiding Overcrowding: If using a small skillet, cook the beef in batches to ensure even browning.
Serving Suggestions
- This savory stir-fried beef and cabbage pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles for a comforting meal.
- For added refreshment, serve it with a side of cucumber salad or pickled vegetables.
- A sprinkle of chopped scallions or fresh cilantro on top will add a pop of color and extra flavor.
Tips
- Cutting the Beef: For tenderness, slice the beef against the grain to prevent toughness.
- Prepping Ahead: To make the cooking process smooth and quick, chop all ingredients beforehand since stir-frying requires constant attention.
- Customizing the Sauce: Adjust the sauce’s sweetness or saltiness by modifying the hoisin or soy sauce based on your preference.
- Keeping the Wok Hot: Ensure the wok or skillet is properly heated before adding the ingredients, as this helps achieve a perfect sear on the beef.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 280
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 800mg (varies based on soy sauce brand)
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just be sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use a combination of soy sauce and a little extra hoisin sauce for a similar flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce for regular soy sauce, and check that the hoisin sauce you use is also gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli would complement this stir-fry well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, mix in some red pepper flakes, chili paste, or Sriracha to the sauce.
Conclusion
In summary, savory stir-fried beef and cabbage is a versatile, healthy, and quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings. With tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and a rich sauce that’s easy to whip up, this dish delivers on both flavor and nutrition. Whether enjoyed over rice or noodles, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try customizing it with your favorite vegetables or a bit of spice to make it your own!
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Savory Stir-Fried Beef and Cabbage
- Total Time: 25
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- Optional: 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- To start, combine the sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a mixing bowl.
- Ensure the beef is thoroughly coated, mixing well. Allow the beef to marinate for 10-15 minutes; this tenderizes it and infuses it with flavor.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Meanwhile, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil in a small bowl.
- Blend the ingredients until smooth, then set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Next, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Carefully arrange the marinated beef in a single layer in the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the beef browns around the edges. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Cabbage
- Using the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed to prevent sticking.
- Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until their aroma becomes fragrant.
- Now, add the chopped cabbage and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly while keeping some crunch.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- At this stage, return the cooked beef to the skillet, pour in the prepared sauce, and add the beef broth or water.
- Stir to coat the beef and cabbage evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is well absorbed and the cabbage reaches a tender-crisp texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- For a finishing touch, garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve this savory stir-fried beef and cabbage hot over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
Cooking Note
- Marinating Tip: Marinating the beef with soy sauce and cornstarch not only infuses flavor but also creates a tender, juicy texture by helping the beef retain its moisture during cooking.
- Cabbage Texture: Avoid overcooking the cabbage, as it’s best when it retains some crunch to provide texture contrast in the dish.
- Avoiding Overcrowding: If using a small skillet, cook the beef in batches to ensure even browning.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 800mg
- Protein: 18g