Black Pepper Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This stir fry combines tender ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and vibrant red bell pepper with a savory, peppery sauce. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal that comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 small head of cabbage, shredded finely
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch of salt, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the garlic, shred the cabbage, and cut the red bell pepper into strips. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until fully dissolved. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the other side of the skillet.
- Add the shredded cabbage and red bell pepper strips to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Season
- Stir the soy sauce into the cornstarch mixture to create a smooth sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Sprinkle in the ground black pepper and a pinch of salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Serve the stir fry hot over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own as a low-carb meal.
Cook’s Notes
- Ground Beef: You can substitute ground beef with ground pork, chicken, or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Cabbage: Napa cabbage or bok choy can be used as alternatives to green cabbage.
- Pepper: Adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Variations
Spicy Black Pepper Beef Stir Fry
Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Garlic Ginger Beef Stir Fry
Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger along with the garlic for an aromatic flavor boost.
Vegetarian Stir Fry
Replace the ground beef with firm tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of water for the sauce.
Teriyaki Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Replace the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stir fry ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze this stir fry?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked stir fry. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with this stir fry?
This stir fry is delicious served over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice. It also pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
5. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms.
Black Pepper Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its savory sauce and the fresh crunch of vegetables, this stir fry is both satisfying and healthy. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that comes together in no time. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete dinner that everyone will love!
