Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s packed with bold flavors, vibrant textures, and downright satisfying simplicity, this Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Combining tender slices of beef with crisp, fresh cabbage and a melody of colorful vegetables, this stir fry is easy to whip up in around 25 minutes and offers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends with a quick Asian-inspired meal, this Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe never fails to deliver big on taste with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and essential, each bringing its own magic to the dish—from the juicy beef to the fresh crunch of cabbage and the aromatic punch of garlic and ginger.

• 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced: Choosing tender cuts and slicing thinly against the grain ensures every bite melts in your mouth.
• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded: Fresh cabbage adds a refreshing crunch and soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly.
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
• 2 carrots, julienned or thinly sliced: Brings a natural sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the dish.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the stir fry with warm, savory aromatics.
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger: Adds a zesty kick that complements the beef beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Provides salty umami richness to tie all flavors together.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional): Enhances the savory depth, making your stir fry extra indulgent.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Imparts a nutty aroma and silky mouthfeel when added to the veggies.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking): Perfect for searing the beef to a flavorful crispness.
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): Balances the salty and tangy notes for a rounded sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that wakes up the palate.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional): Gives a bright tang to lift the overall flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish): Delivers a fresh, mild oniony finish.

How to Make Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by thinly slicing the beef against the grain to keep it tender; then shred your cabbage, slice the onion, and julienne the carrots for varying textures. Don’t forget to mince the garlic and grate fresh ginger—those little flavor bombs will take your stir fry from good to unforgettable.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the beef and stir-fry it quickly for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s beautifully browned but still juicy. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside to keep it from overcooking while you prepare the veggies.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

Use the same skillet but now add the sesame oil. Toss in the garlic, ginger, onion, and carrots, sautéing for about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll start to smell that aromatic ginger and garlic mingle as the onions soften and the carrots slightly sweeten—this builds the heart of your dish’s flavor.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage

Next, add your shredded cabbage to the pan. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally so it softens just enough but maintains a crispness that keeps each bite lively. This stage is all about balancing tenderness with crunch, which makes this stir fry such a joy to eat.

Step 5: Combine and Flavor

Now it’s time to reunite the components. Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sugar (if you like a little sweetness), and black pepper. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly, allowing the sauce to coat each ingredient evenly. Let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish off your Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe by sprinkling on sesame seeds and chopped green onions if you have them—these add lovely texture and a fresh burst of color. Serve this vibrant stir fry hot, alongside steamed rice or your favorite noodles, or simply enjoy it on its own for a satisfying low-carb meal.

How to Serve Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions is a classic, but you can also add a few red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a drizzle of sriracha for those who love some heat. These simple garnishes elevate the dish and make each bite feel special.

Side Dishes

This Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice, chewy udon noodles, or even a side of steamed dumplings. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside a crisp cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to contrast the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Make it a one-pan feast by serving your stir fry in lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld twist. You can also turn it into a filling for rice paper rolls or stuff it into steamed bao buns—delicious and fun ways to enjoy this dish beyond the ordinary plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as tasty. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing the container to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe, allow it to cool fully, then place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months, making it a convenient option for busy days when you crave home-cooked warmth without the prep.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat in a skillet or wok, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. If the stir fry seems a touch dry, add a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh that saucy goodness. Microwave reheating works too—just cover the dish and heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking the beef.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir fry?

Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak work best for tenderness and quick cooking, you can substitute with ribeye, skirt steak, or even thinly sliced chuck. Just remember to cut thinly against the grain to keep it tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap regular soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free or omit it altogether. This will keep all those delicious flavors intact without gluten.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?

Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli florets, or mushrooms all make great additions. Just add them in during the vegetable stir-fry step according to their cooking times to keep everything crisp-tender.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chili garlic sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking, or drizzle sriracha over the finished dish. You can adjust the heat level to suit your taste for that extra layer of excitement.

What’s the best way to slice the beef for stir-fry?

Freeze the beef for about 15 minutes before slicing; this firms it up and makes thin slicing much easier. Always slice against the grain to maximize tenderness and ensure the beef cooks quickly and evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe is a joyful celebration of fresh ingredients, quick prep, and comforting flavors that come together in a way that feels both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just stepping into the world of stir-frying, this recipe is a fantastic go-to that will warm your kitchen and your heart. So go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your cooking rotation!

Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A quick and flavorful Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry combining tender slices of beef with crisp shredded cabbage and vibrant vegetables, flavored with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Perfect for a nutritious, 25-minute weeknight meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with rice or noodles.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef

• 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain

Vegetables

• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Sauces & Oils

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Thinly slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. Prepare the vegetables by shredding the cabbage, slicing the onion thinly, and julienning the carrots. Mince the garlic cloves and grate fresh ginger to bring aromatic flavor to the dish.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the meat is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside to prevent overcooking.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the sesame oil. Sauté the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced onion, and julienned carrots for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened, which helps develop their flavors.
4. Add the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cabbage softens but retains a pleasant crunch, maintaining texture in the dish.
5. Combine and Flavor: Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce if using, rice vinegar for tang (optional), sugar if desired to balance flavors, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly and heat through for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve the stir fry hot, either on its own for a low-carb option or accompanied by steamed rice or noodles for a more filling meal.

Notes

• For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and omit oyster sauce or use a gluten-free alternative.
• To make it spicier, add sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes during the vegetable stir-fry step.
• Be sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender.
• This dish cooks quickly; prepping ingredients beforehand is key for smooth cooking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian