Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is a deliciously hearty dish that brings robust flavors to your dinner table. Perfect for weeknight meals, it combines tender ground beef with crunchy cabbage and savory sauces for a satisfying experience. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for family and friends, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy.
• Low-Carb Delight: This dish is perfect for those looking to cut down on carbohydrates while still enjoying a filling meal.
• Savory Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates an irresistible taste that pleases everyone.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand; this recipe is adaptable with various vegetables or proteins.
• One-Pan Meal: Save time on cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the essential tools and equipment before you start. Being organized will help you enjoy the process even more!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the beef and vegetables evenly.
• Spatula: Ideal for breaking apart the beef while browning and mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage features fresh ingredients that bring out the best in each other.

For the Meat Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute (like Swerve or monk fruit)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium head of cabbage, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for added heat

How to Make Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar substitute, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Mix until the beef is well-coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, gently folding it into the beef mixture. Reduce heat to medium, cover the skillet, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Uncover the skillet and stir in sliced green onions. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until cabbage is soft and sauce has slightly thickened.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy it hot!

How to Serve Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Serve it in Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, as a wrap for the beef and cabbage mixture. This makes for a fun, hand-held meal that’s perfect for casual dining.

Pair with Cauliflower Rice

• Serve the dish over fluffy cauliflower rice. This low-carb alternative adds texture and absorbs the savory flavors of the beef and sauce.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an extra layer of flavor. The freshness complements the dish beautifully.

Create a Bowl Meal

• Layer the beef and cabbage mixture in a bowl with other low-carb vegetables like radishes or cucumbers. This creates a colorful and nutritious meal.

Enjoy with Avocado Slices

• Sliced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. Place them on top of your serving for added richness.

Garnish with Extra Green Onions

• Sprinkle additional sliced green onions on top before serving for a pop of color and flavor. This enhances both presentation and taste.

How to Perfect Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

To achieve the best results with this recipe, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out flavorful and satisfying.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger add depth to the flavor profile, making your dish more aromatic.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preference for spice.

• Cook cabbage just right: Avoid overcooking the cabbage; it should be tender yet still have some crunch for texture contrast.

• Experiment with toppings: Try adding sesame oil drizzle or crushed peanuts as toppings to elevate flavor and texture further.

• Make it ahead: This dish can be made in advance, making weeknight dinners easier. Just reheat before serving!

• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

Complement your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage with these delicious side dishes that enhance the meal while keeping it healthy.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that pairs well with savory beef dishes.

2. Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli stir-fried with garlic adds color and nutrients to your plate.

3. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a fun twist while being low in carbs.

4. Sautéed Bok Choy: This nutrient-rich green is quick to prepare and offers a mild flavor that complements beef.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil make a flavorful side that balances the richness of beef.

6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad tossed in vinegar adds brightness to your meal, cutting through savory flavors.

7. Spicy Radish Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from fresh radishes adds a delightful kick alongside your main dish.

8. Eggplant Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked eggplant with soy sauce brings another layer of umami flavor that pairs nicely with beef dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using too much oil: Overdoing it with sesame oil can make the dish greasy. Start with a tablespoon and adjust based on your taste.
• Not chopping cabbage properly: If the cabbage is too large, it won’t cook evenly. Aim for bite-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for a well-balanced dish.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking ground beef for too long can dry it out. Monitor closely to avoid this and ensure it’s browned yet juicy.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds or green onions can make your dish look less appealing. Always add these for visual appeal and added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Portion into smaller servings for easy thawing.

Reheating Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative. It will provide a lighter flavor while still being low-carb.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To elevate the heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños during cooking.

What sides pair well with Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage?

Consider serving this dish with cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Absolutely! Savoy cabbage or Napa cabbage would work well if you want to try something different.

Final Thoughts

This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is not only quick but also packed with flavor. Its versatile nature allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with different vegetables, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is a delightful one-pan dish that combines succulent ground beef with crunchy cabbage, creating a hearty meal bursting with flavor. With the aromatic notes of garlic and ginger, this dish offers a savory sauce that brings every ingredient to life. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it takes just 30 minutes to whip up, making it both a quick and satisfying option. Serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that everyone will love. This recipe is adaptable to your pantry staples, ensuring you can enjoy robust flavors no matter what you have on hand.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar substitute, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until combined.
4. Fold in chopped cabbage and cover; cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in green onions; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Cook for an additional few minutes.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg