This Black Pepper Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a quick and easy dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of savory ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and vibrant red bell pepper, all tied together with a peppery soy sauce, creates a delicious and balanced meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For sautéing and adding a mild, neutral flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped: Provides a strong, aromatic base that infuses the dish with rich flavor.
- 1/2 pound ground beef: Adds a hearty and savory element to the stir fry.
- 1/2 small head of cabbage, shredded finely: Offers a crunchy texture and slightly sweet taste that balances the savory beef.
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips: Adds a pop of color and a sweet, crisp flavor.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings a savory, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy finish.
- 1/2 cup cold water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch and create the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a spicy, peppery kick that gives the dish its signature flavor.
- 1 pinch of salt, to taste: Balances the flavors and enhances the seasoning.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by chopping the garlic, shredding the cabbage, and cutting the red bell pepper into strips. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the 4 cloves of chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Add the 1/2 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Vegetables:
- Once the beef is cooked, add the shredded cabbage and red bell pepper strips to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to cook down slightly while still retaining some crunch. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of cold water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This mixture will help thicken the sauce.
- Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet, followed by the 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer and Serve:
- Let the stir fry simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef and vegetables evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed.
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from heat.
6. Serve:
- Serve the Black Pepper Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with additional black pepper or a sprinkle of chopped green onions if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Variation: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground pork, chicken, or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Level: If you like more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil to the stir fry.
- Vegetable Add-ins: You can easily add other vegetables like carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional content and add variety.
- Soy Sauce Substitute: If you are watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
This Black Pepper Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry is a delicious, quick, and easy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The ground beef provides a hearty base, while the cabbage and bell pepper add crunch and freshness. The black pepper and soy sauce bring everything together with a savory, slightly spicy flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying and complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
