Savory Low-Carb Cabbage and Beef Stir Fry: Quick, Flavorful, and Keto-Friendly π₯¬π₯©π₯
Introduction
Looking for a hearty, nutritious dinner thatβs quick to make and fits your low-carb lifestyle? This Savory Low-Carb Cabbage and Beef Stir Fry is your answer! Itβs packed with lean ground beef, caramelized cabbage, and bold Asian-inspired flavors, all while keeping carbs to a minimum.
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone following a ketogenic, paleo, or low-carb diet, this stir fry is both satisfying and flexible β easy to customize with your favorite seasonings or add-ins.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded π₯¬
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for cooking
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Tips for Success
- Use Lean Ground Beef: It keeps the dish lighter and less greasy. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- Slice Cabbage Thinly: The finer the shred, the faster it cooks and caramelizes.
- Balance the Flavors: Adjust soy sauce and vinegar to taste β more vinegar for tang, more soy for umami.
- Spice It Up: Like it hot? Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil.
- Low-Carb Sides: Serve with cauliflower rice or a soft-boiled egg for a complete keto meal.
- Make It a Bowl: Top with sliced avocado, sesame seeds, or pickled veggies for a fusion-inspired bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Shred the cabbage, slice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Set everything out for easy access.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Once fully cooked, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
3. SautΓ© the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 2β3 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent, and the mixture is fragrant.
4. Add the Cabbage
Increase the heat to high. Add the shredded cabbage and stir-fry for 5β7 minutes, or until the cabbage wilts and starts to caramelize. You want some golden bits for flavor!
5. Bring It All Together
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2β3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Optional: Pair with cauliflower rice or serve in lettuce wraps for a fully low-carb meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving β Approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Net Carbs: 6g
Note: Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Whether you’re watching your carbs, doing meal prep, or just want a flavorful dish without the guilt, this Cabbage and Beef Stir Fry hits the mark. It’s savory, simple, and full of bold, comforting flavors β no rice required. π₯’π₯