Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Beef: Lean beef sirloin or flank steak works best for this stir fry. You can substitute with chicken breast or tofu for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just remember to adjust cooking time as chicken will take a bit longer to cook through.

Cabbage: Green cabbage gives a nice crunch, but you can also use napa cabbage or bok choy if you prefer. These options will offer different flavors and textures that are equally delicious!

Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice for flavor without all the salt. If you’re gluten-free, consider tamari or coconut aminos as an excellent substitute.

Oyster Sauce: I love oyster sauce for its rich flavor, but if you want a vegetarian option, try mushroom sauce or a little hoisin sauce instead. They have similar sweetness and depth!

Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. They all mix well and boost the meal’s nutrition. Just cut them similarly for even cooking.

How Do I Get My Beef to Stay Tender?

Getting tender beef in your stir fry is all about preparation! Always slice against the grain; this cuts through the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender. Also, marinating the beef, even for a short time, helps with tenderness and flavor.

• Marinate the beef with soy sauce and a little cornstarch for 10-15 minutes. This method adds flavor and creates a light coating that keeps the beef juicy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking. Cook in batches if needed to ensure the beef sears rather than steams. Aim for a hot skillet to seal the juices in!

With these tips and ingredient options, you’re set for a flavorful and healthy meal. Enjoy making your stir fry!

Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Stir Fry:

• 1 lb (450g) lean beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional for extra color and crunch)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce for a lighter taste)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or canola oil
• 1/4 cup low-sodium beef broth or water
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, to thicken sauce)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious stir fry will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick 25-minute meal from start to finish! Perfect for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:

In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a pinch of black pepper. Marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prep the vegetables. This marinading helps to infuse flavor into the beef!

2. Cook the Beef:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until it’s browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Once cooked, carefully remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

3. Flavor the Base:

Using the same pan, add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir quickly until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds. This will create a wonderful aroma that enhances the dish!

4. Add the Vegetables:

Next, toss in the sliced cabbage, and carrots (if using). Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften but still has a nice crunch. You want vibrant colors and fresh textures!

5. Combine Ingredients:

Return the cooked beef to the pan. Pour in the beef broth (or water), soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together evenly.

6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):

If you’d like a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.

7. Taste and Season:

Before serving, taste your stir fry. Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preference. Adjust it to suit your taste!

8. Garnish and Serve:

Lastly, garnish your stir fry with the green parts of the green onions and sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Enjoy your healthy and flavorful Chinese beef and cabbage stir fry!

FAQs About Healthy Chinese Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?

Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak are great options for their tenderness, you can also use skirt steak or even ground beef. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut you choose.

What Can I Substitute for Cabbage?

If you’re not a fan of cabbage, bok choy and napa cabbage are excellent alternatives. Both will provide a similar crunch and flavor while keeping the dish light and healthy.

Can I Make This Stir Fry Ahead of Time?

You can prep the ingredients in advance! Slice the beef and vegetables and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to cook and enjoy the stir fry fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry!