Introduction to Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
As a home cook at heart, passion knows how much of a whirlwind life can be with work and motherhood most notably between these two professions for so many of us. Here is my gift to you, the recipe for Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage. Shockingly fast to prepare, 25 minutes start to finish, and su-per-duperly flavored; this will go over very well with even the pickiest of eaters and health-minded diners. Think of it as a very simple stir-fry, teeming with protein and bright veggies within the realms of low-carb goodness. It’s an excellent culinary choice which is supposed to bring contentment with each serving.
Why You’ll Love This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage. Quickie, right? No more mad dashes at dinnertime; this baby goes from kitchen to table in 25 minutes. All the pretty, vibrant flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil are dancing on your palate with each spoonful, all with conveniently light ingredients. All of the things a busy schedule — in need of something hearty — can handle.
Ingredients for Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage dish is packed with flavors and nutrients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground beef: The star of the show! Rich in protein and satisfying, it forms the hearty base of the dish.
- Onion: Diced finely, it adds sweetness and depth, creating a fragrant undertone as it cooks.
- Green cabbage: Shredded, it brings crunch and a refreshing quality, while also being low in carbs.
- Garlic: Minced garlic lends a robust flavor that enhances the overall profile of the dish.
- Soy sauce: Or coconut aminos for a lower sodium option; it provides an umami punch that ties all the flavors together.
- Sesame oil: Just a tablespoon brings a nutty aroma, elevating the dish with a hint of Asian flair.
- Rice vinegar: It adds a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the beef and the earthiness of the cabbage.
- Ground ginger: A warm spice that adds warmth and a slight zing, giving the dish that authentic Mongolian taste.
- Red pepper flakes: Optional, but these little gems add just the right amount of heat to wake up the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Green onions: Sliced, they make a beautiful garnish and offer fresh flavor and color.
- Toasted sesame seeds: Optional for garnish, they add a delightful crunch and eye-catching appeal!
Exact quantities can be found at the bottom of the article, making it easy for you to get started!
How to Make Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
Now that we have our ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. I’m here to guide you through each step of making this Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage dish. I promise, it’s almost as easy as boiling water!
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and let it sizzle. You want it to brown nicely. This will take about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat after it’s done!
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the finely diced onion and minced garlic with the beef.
Stir them together for about 2-3 minutes. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be nothing short of amazing!
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Now it’s time to invite the shredded cabbage to the party.
Stir it in and sauté for about 5 minutes. You want the cabbage to soften slightly while still retaining some crunch.
Step 4: Incorporate Seasonings
Here comes the magic part! Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and add ground ginger. If you like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes too!
Mix everything well and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This is where the flavors really come together!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time for the finishing touches. Remove your blissful creation from the heat.
Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for that extra flair. And voilà! Your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is ready to be served!
Tips for Success
- Use a cast-iron skillet for excellent heat retention and browning.
- Prepare all ingredients before cooking to save time and make the process smoother.
- Feel free to customize the level of spice by adjusting red pepper flakes.
- For extra flavor, sauté the beef with a splash of soy sauce beforehand.
- Serve leftovers over a bed of greens for a refreshing lunch option!
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking.
- Cutting Board: Essential for chopping veggies and prepping ingredients.
- Sharp Knife: A good chef’s knife makes slicing and dicing a breeze.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and sautéing without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring Spoons: Handy for accurate ingredient measurements, especially for sauces.
Variations
This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is wonderfully versatile! Here are some fun ways to switch things up according to your taste or what you have on hand:
- Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a plant-based version.
- Vary the Veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful twist.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try adding hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce for an alternate flavor profile.
- Go Nut-Free: Omit sesame oil and opt for olive or avocado oil as a substitute.
- Increase the Crunch: Top it off with crushed peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch.
- Make it Spicier: Toss in sliced chili peppers or use a spicier variety of red pepper flakes!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage experience, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
- Side Dishes: A simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli pairs perfectly.
- Beverage Pairings: Enjoy with green tea or a refreshing sparkling water.
- Presentation: Serve in a colorful bowl, topped with extra green onions for a burst of color!
FAQs about Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage in advance. Just store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it in a skillet until warmed through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can be made gluten-free by using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. This swap offers a similar flavor without the gluten, making it perfect for those with sensitivities.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount. On the flip side, if you like it spicy, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even some sliced jalapeños for a fiery kick!
What do I serve with this dish?
This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage pairs beautifully with a light side salad or some steamed veggies. For a refreshing contrast, a cucumber salad also works wonders!
Can I use other vegetables besides cabbage?
Definitely! While cabbage is fantastic, you can also experiment with other vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or even a medley of bell peppers for added color and texture!
Final Thoughts
As I wrap up this culinary adventure, I can’t help but smile at the thought of sharing my Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage creation with you. This dish not only brings joy to my dinner table but also offers a quick, healthy option for busy nights. The delightful combination of flavors and textures never fails to impress my family and friends. I truly hope it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen too. Remember, cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—just a sprinkle of love and a dash of creativity goes a long way!
Print
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Mongolian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and easy low-carb dish featuring ground beef stir-fried with cabbage and flavored with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Ingredients
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and sauté until slightly wilted, about 5 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook another 2-3 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the beef with soy sauce before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg