Beef and Veggie Stir-Fry

This beef and vegetable stir-fry bowl transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without the fuss of complex cooking techniques.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when takeout was tempting me daily. After making it once, my family requested it three times the following week and it's now our go-to quick dinner when schedules get crazy.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Creates a hearty protein base. Choose 85% lean for the best flavor while keeping fat reasonable.
• Shredded cabbage: Adds crunch and bulks up the bowl with minimal calories. Pre-shredded saves precious minutes.
• Matchstick carrots: Provide natural sweetness and vibrant color. The thin cuts ensure quick cooking.
• Green onions: Offer a mild onion flavor that doesn't overpower the dish. Use both white and green parts.
• Soy sauce: Delivers the classic umami foundation. Low-sodium varieties work wonderfully if watching salt intake.
• Hoisin sauce: Brings sweet and tangy complexity. Worth adding even though it's optional.
• Sesame oil: Creates authentic Asian flavor. A little goes a very long way.
• Garlic and ginger: Form the aromatic base. Fresh versions provide the brightest flavor.
• Sesame seeds: Add pleasant texture and visual appeal. Toast them lightly for enhanced flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and has developed some caramelized brown bits. Drain excess fat if desired but leaving a little enhances flavor.

Create the Sauce Base:

Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and grated ginger directly to the beef. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the aromatics. Pour in soy sauce, hoisin sauce if using, and drizzle the sesame oil. Stir everything together to coat the beef evenly with the sauce mixture.

Add Vegetables:

Add the shredded cabbage and matchstick carrots to the skillet. Toss everything together using tongs to help distribute the vegetables evenly throughout the beef mixture. Cook for just 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables slightly wilt but still maintain some crispness. Overcooking will make them soggy.

Serve and Garnish:

Divide the mixture between serving bowls while hot. Sprinkle generously with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. For best presentation, arrange the green onions in one direction rather than scattered randomly.

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I always keep a bag of shredded cabbage in my refrigerator specifically for this recipe. My daughter who typically avoids vegetables will happily devour this entire bowl, which makes this working mom particularly proud of this simple creation.

Meal Prep Magic

This stir-fry bowl reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Prepare a double batch and portion into microwave safe containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight in the refrigerator. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Simple Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken works perfectly in place of beef for a lighter option. If using poultry, add an extra teaspoon of oil to the pan before browning since these leaner meats contain less natural fat.

Vegetable options are endless. Try bell peppers, snow peas, broccoli slaw, or mushrooms in place of or in addition to the cabbage and carrots. Just remember to add firmer vegetables first and more delicate ones toward the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice depending on your carb preferences. For a complete meal experience, add a fried egg with a runny yolk on top that creates a luxurious sauce when broken. Sriracha or chili oil makes an excellent tableside condiment for those who enjoy heat. A side of kimchi adds probiotic benefits and complements the flavors beautifully.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasonings as needed based on your choice of protein.

→ Can I add more vegetables to this stir-fry?

Absolutely! You can include bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.

→ Is hoisin sauce necessary for this dish?

Hoisin sauce is optional but adds a slight sweetness and depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or substitute with a small amount of honey or brown sugar.

→ Can this stir-fry be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stir-fry ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

→ What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

This stir-fry is delicious on its own, but you can serve it over rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a more filling meal.