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Low-Carb Cabbage and Beef Stir Fry

Low-Carb Cabbage and Beef Stir Fry

A quick, flavorful, and low-carb dinner option featuring tender beef strips stir-fried with crunchy green cabbage and aromatic garlic and ginger in a savory soy-sesame sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is nutritious, filling, and easily customizable to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 8 oz flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain

Vegetables

  • 4 cups green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized strips
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Sauces and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for cooking)

Optional

  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness, chop the cabbage into bite-sized strips, and mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped and ready makes the cooking process smooth and fast.
  2. Sear the Beef: Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the beef and set aside to keep it juicy and flavorful.
  3. Stir Fry the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add another splash of oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt. This quick step builds a flavorful base for the dish.
  4. Cook the Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir frequently. Cook until the cabbage softens slightly but still retains crunch, around 4-5 minutes. This keeps the stir fry balanced with both tender and crisp textures.
  5. Combine and Season: Return the beef to the skillet with the cabbage. Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes allowing flavors to meld and the beef to warm back up.
  6. Finish with Green Onions and Serve: Stir in chopped green onions off the heat for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy a satisfying Low-Carb Cabbage and Beef Stir Fry that’s as good as any takeout.

Notes

  • Slice Beef Thinly: Cutting beef thin ensures it cooks quickly and remains tender.
  • High Heat Cooking: Use a hot pan or wok to get a nice sear and preserve texture.
  • Don’t Overcook Cabbage: Keep it slightly crunchy to maintain contrast with tender beef.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a big difference in flavor intensity.
  • Add Sauce Gradually: Adjust soy sauce to taste to avoid overpowering saltiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: low-carb, beef stir fry, cabbage, keto, quick dinner, healthy, gluten free, Asian-inspired, easy meal