This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is a quick and delicious way to enjoy bold Asian flavors without the guilt. The savory beef, crisp-tender cabbage, and thick, glossy sauce come together in a mouthwatering meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is as satisfying as it is simple. Serve it over cauliflower rice for an extra layer of texture or enjoy it on its own for a hearty, wholesome dinner. With its balanced flavors and healthy ingredients, this Mongolian-inspired recipe will become a staple in your meal rotation.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ head cabbage (chopped)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 8 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp ginger (minced)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar substitute (such as Swerve)
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3 tsp cornstarch
- ⅓ cup green onions (diced)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add garlic and ginger to the cleared space. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the cabbage and sprinkle red pepper flakes over the mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar substitute.
- In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with beef broth until fully dissolved. Add this mixture to the sauce. Stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage mixture. Stir until evenly coated. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in green onions and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot as a standalone dish or over cauliflower rice.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction
If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and irresistibly flavorful dinner option, look no further than this Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish brings together savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a thick, glossy sauce infused with rich Asian-inspired flavors. It’s perfect for anyone craving a hearty yet low-carb meal without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Its wholesome ingredients, bold flavors, and quick preparation make it an ideal solution for busy weeknights.
The Origin of Mongolian Beef (and This Low-Carb Twist)
Mongolian beef, despite its name, is a popular American-Chinese dish rather than a traditional Mongolian recipe. Known for its tender beef strips coated in a sweet-savory sauce, it is typically served over rice or noodles.
This low-carb adaptation swaps out the high-carb noodles or rice with crunchy, fresh cabbage. The result? A satisfying and guilt-free meal that retains all the deliciousness of the original without the carb-heavy components.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: By replacing noodles with cabbage and using low-sugar ingredients, this recipe is a fantastic option for those watching their carb intake.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein from ground beef and fiber-rich cabbage, it’s a balanced and filling meal.
- Customizable: The recipe allows room for creativity with different protein options or added vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Bold Asian Flavors: The combination of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce creates a rich and savory taste profile.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
- Ground Beef: High in protein and essential nutrients such as iron and B vitamins, ground beef provides the energy and muscle support your body needs.
- Cabbage: A nutrient powerhouse, cabbage is low in calories but packed with vitamins C and K. It also contains antioxidants that support overall health and digestion.
- Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics not only add depth of flavor but also boast anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Sesame Oil: Rich in healthy fats, sesame oil brings a nutty flavor and contains antioxidants that promote heart health.
- Soy Sauce and Hoisin Sauce: These ingredients contribute umami flavors while keeping the dish savory and satisfying. Opting for low-sodium versions makes it a healthier choice.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ways to customize it to suit your preferences:
- Protein Variations: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter or different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Boost the nutritional value by adding bell peppers, broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spice it Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions
- Cauliflower Rice: Serve this dish over cauliflower rice for a completely low-carb meal that mimics the texture of traditional rice.
- Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the savory beef and cabbage mixture into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, hand-held option.
- As Is: Enjoy it straight from the skillet as a hearty standalone meal.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Cook the cabbage until just tender for a satisfying crunch and vibrant color.
- Thickening the Sauce: Be sure to fully dissolve the cornstarch in the beef broth before adding it to the skillet. This ensures a smooth, glossy sauce.
- Balancing Flavors: Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce by experimenting with the amount of brown sugar substitute and soy sauce to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. The bold flavors, quick preparation time, and healthy ingredient list make it a must-try for families, busy professionals, or anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste. Not only does it satisfy cravings for takeout-style food, but it also offers peace of mind knowing you’re feeding your body wholesome and nutritious ingredients. The balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, combined with the crunch of cabbage, creates a meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Storing Leftovers: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if the mixture seems dry.
Conclusion
This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe brings bold, Asian-inspired flavors to your table in a healthy, low-carb format. Its simplicity, versatility, and irresistible taste will make it a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re new to low-carb cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Try it tonight and experience the perfect fusion of flavor, health, and convenience!
