Indulge in this quick, low-carb Mongolian ground beef and cabbage: 20-minute meal. This dish combines savory ground beef with a sweet and tangy sauce, delivering rich flavors without the carbs. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal that you can easily whip up. Serve it over cauliflower rice or with steamed veggies for a complete, guilt-free dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this meal is perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger brings an enticing taste to your table.
- Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy a hearty dish without the guilt, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooked in one skillet, this recipe minimizes cleanup time.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before you begin.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or wok: Allows even cooking of the ground beef and cabbage while providing enough space to stir the ingredients effectively.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Essential for quickly chopping the cabbage and preparing garlic and ginger without hassle.
Ingredients
Indulge in this quick, low-carb Mongolian ground beef recipe that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This dish pairs savory ground beef with a sweet and tangy sauce, creating a deliciously rich flavor without the carbs. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up. Serve it over cauliflower rice or with steamed veggies for a complete, guilt-free dinner!
For the Beef and Cabbage
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- ½ Head Cabbage (fresh large head, chopped)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 8 Cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 Tbsp Ginger (minced)
- ½ Tsp Red Pepper Flakes
For the Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar Swerve
- ½ Cup Soy Sauce (low-sodium)
- ¼ Cup Hoisin Sauce
- 1 Cup Beef Broth
- 3 Tsp Cornstarch
For Garnish
- ⅓ Cup Green Onions (diced)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Seeds (optional)
How to Make Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal
Step 1: Prep the Cabbage
Chop ½ head of fresh cabbage into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger
Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet. Add 8 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger to the center. Cook while stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Mix it with the beef, garlic, and ginger. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes over the mixture. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until the cabbage begins to soften.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, ¼ cup of hoisin sauce, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar swerve.
Step 6: Create a Slurry
In another small bowl, mix together 3 teaspoons of cornstarch with 1 cup of beef broth until dissolved. Add this slurry to your soy sauce and hoisin mixture while stirring to combine.
Step 7: Combine and Thicken
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and cabbage in the skillet. Stir well to coat evenly. Continue cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 8: Finish with Green Onions
Stir in ⅓ cup of diced green onions. Cook for an additional minute.
Step 9: Serve
Optionally sprinkle with sesame seeds over your dish for added texture and flavor.
Step 10: Enjoy
Serve hot as a standalone dish or over cauliflower rice for a delicious low-carb meal. Adjust seasoning to taste as needed.
How to Serve Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal
Serving your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is just as exciting as preparing it! This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides to enhance its flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Over Cauliflower Rice
- A fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional rice, cauliflower rice absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.
With Steamed Broccoli
- Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and complements the dish’s rich flavors while keeping it healthy.
Wrapped in Lettuce Leaves
- For a fun and fresh twist, serve the beef mixture in crisp lettuce leaves for a satisfying wrap.
Topped with Avocado
- Adding sliced avocado provides creaminess and is packed with healthy fats, making your meal even more nutritious.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh cilantro or parsley can brighten up the dish with their vibrant flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
With Zucchini Noodles
- Zoodles (zucchini noodles) offer a delightful way to enjoy this meal while keeping it low-carb and refreshing.
How to Perfect Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal
Perfecting your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage can take this dish from good to great. Here are some tips to make sure you get the best results every time you cook!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and cabbage will bring out the best flavors in your dish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For more spice, consider adding some sliced chili peppers.
- Cook Meat Thoroughly: Ensure that the ground beef is cooked well before adding other ingredients for the best texture and flavor.
- Thicken Your Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens properly; this will ensure it coats all ingredients evenly.
- Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to try different sauces like teriyaki or sesame for a unique twist on flavors.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal
Pairing side dishes with your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful main course effortlessly.
- Garlic Butter Asparagus
Tender asparagus sautéed in garlic butter makes a delightful side that enhances the meal’s savory notes. - Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the richness of beef. - Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a cool contrast against the warm beef dish. - Stir-Fried Bok Choy
Lightly stir-fried bok choy adds an Asian touch with its delicate flavor while keeping things low-carb. - Spicy Radish Slaw
A crunchy slaw made from radishes offers a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the hoisin sauce. - Mashed Cauliflower
Creamy mashed cauliflower serves as an excellent substitute for mashed potatoes while being lower in carbs. - Eggplant Chips
Baked eggplant chips provide a crispy texture that’s ideal for dipping into any leftover sauce from your main dish. - Zucchini Fritters
These fritters not only add flavor but also keep your meal light and refreshing alongside your beef and cabbage dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the ground beef for too long can dry it out. Aim for a nice brown color and remove it from heat as soon as it’s no longer pink.
- Not Shredding Cabbage Properly: If the cabbage is not chopped into small pieces, it may not cook evenly. Make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Ignoring the Sauce Ratios: Using too much or too little of any sauce can throw off the flavor balance. Follow the recipe measurements closely for the best results.
- Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry: This step helps thicken the sauce, giving it a rich texture. Don’t skip this; mix cornstarch with beef broth before adding it to the sauce.
- Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting your dish while cooking is crucial. Adjust seasoning as needed; if it lacks flavor, a pinch of salt or more spices can enhance the overall taste.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Allow to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
- Label with the date and contents for easy identification later.
Reheating Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a baking dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated thoroughly. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage meal healthy?
This dish is low in carbohydrates while still being high in protein and flavor. Using fresh ingredients like cabbage adds fiber without extra calories, making it a nutritious choice.
Can I customize this Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef recipe?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas. You could also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a different protein option.
How can I serve Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage?
This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, or on its own as a hearty meal. Feel free to experiment with your favorite side dishes!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep since you can store leftovers easily and reheat them throughout the week without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is not only quick and simple but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a go-to meal for busy nights!
Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
Indulge in a delightful Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. This quick and easy recipe features savory ground beef paired with a sweet and tangy sauce that delivers an explosion of flavor while keeping your carb count low. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is not only healthy but also satisfying. Serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed vegetables to create a complete and guilt-free dinner that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- ½ Head Cabbage (chopped)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 8 Cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 Tbsp Ginger (minced)
- ½ Cup Soy Sauce (low-sodium)
- ¼ Cup Hoisin Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar Swerve
- 1 Cup Beef Broth
- Green Onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Chop cabbage into bite-sized pieces; set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Push beef to one side; add garlic and ginger to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in cabbage and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 5 minutes until cabbage softens.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar swerve.
- Combine cornstarch with beef broth in another bowl; then add to the sauce mixture.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and cabbage; stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Finish with diced green onions before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Adjust spice levels by modifying red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition.
