Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite comfort foods: fried cabbage with beef, onion, and garlic! This dish is pure savory goodness that warms the soul and fills the belly. I mean, who doesn’t love the combination of tender cabbage sautéed to perfection with juicy ground beef, sweet onions, and aromatic garlic? It’s such a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home too. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting dish that’s not just delicious, but also packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this scrumptious meal!
Ingredients for Fried Cabbage with Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish! Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing out the rich, savory flavors, so let’s get to it:
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped: Choose a fresh, green head of cabbage. Chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and to make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
- 1 lb ground beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for a healthier option, but you can go for a bit of fat for extra flavor. Just make sure to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks!
- 1 onion, diced: A medium-sized onion works perfectly here. Dice it into small pieces to ensure it cooks quickly and sweetens beautifully while sautéing.
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a game-changer! Mince it finely so that it releases its aromatic oils and flavors into the dish. If you love garlic like I do, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce: This adds a wonderful umami flavor. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste buds—just don’t go overboard, as it can get salty!
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil: We’ll use this for sautéing. You can also use sesame oil for a more authentic Asian flavor, but vegetable oil works just fine.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These are essential for seasoning. Start with a pinch and adjust as you go, especially after adding the soy sauce.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to making a delicious dinner that’s sure to impress! Let’s keep rolling into the cooking process.
How to Prepare Fried Cabbage with Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Now, let’s get into the exciting part—cooking up this scrumptious dish! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring the aromas in no time. I promise you, it’s easier than you think!
Step 1: Heat the Oil
First things first, grab a large skillet and heat up that tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. It’s super important to preheat your skillet so the oil gets nice and hot. This helps ensure that all the ingredients cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers just a bit!
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once your oil is heated, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion turns a lovely translucent color and becomes fragrant. This step is key because it builds a flavorful base for your dish. Don’t walk away; keep an eye on them so the garlic doesn’t burn—yuck!
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Next up, add your ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with your spatula and cook it for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s browned all over and there’s no pink left. Just keep stirring to ensure it cooks evenly—this is where the deliciousness really starts to come together!
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Soy Sauce
Now, it’s time to add the chopped cabbage and soy sauce. Stir everything together really well so that the cabbage gets coated in that savory sauce. It might look like too much cabbage at first, but trust me—it wilts down beautifully!
Step 5: Cook Until Tender
Let everything cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to become nice and tender but still have a bit of bite to it. To check for doneness, just taste a piece! If it’s soft and flavorful, you’re ready to move on.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavor just how you like it. Serve it hot, and for a complete meal, consider pairing it with rice or noodles. You’ll absolutely love how all those flavors meld together—it’s comfort food at its finest!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of savory beef, sweet onions, and fragrant garlic mixed with tender cabbage creates a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Healthy Profile: Packed with nutrients from the cabbage and protein from the beef, it’s a wholesome meal that won’t weigh you down.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the soy sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks in one skillet, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time doing dishes.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The warm, savory flavors of fried cabbage with beef, onion, and garlic will wrap you in a cozy blanket of satisfaction—just like home-cooked meals should!
Tips for Success with Fried Cabbage with Beef, Onion, and Garlic
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your fried cabbage with beef, onion, and garlic turns out absolutely perfect every time. Trust me, a little attention to detail can make a world of difference!
- Adjust the Soy Sauce: Everyone’s taste buds are different! Start with the suggested amount, but feel free to tweak it. If you like it salty, add a bit more; if you prefer it milder, just hold back. You can always add more later, but it’s tough to take it away!
- Cook the Beef Thoroughly: Make sure the beef is browned all the way through before adding the cabbage. This not only ensures safety but also enhances flavor. Look for a nice brown color; it’s a sign that you’ve developed those tasty bits!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re making a larger batch, consider using two pans instead of cramming everything into one. Overcrowding can cause steaming rather than frying, which isn’t what we want here!
- Taste as You Go: This is one of my golden rules in the kitchen! Give it a taste after you’ve added the cabbage and soy sauce, and adjust your seasoning accordingly. It’s the best way to ensure the flavors are just right!
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to throw in some other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition. Just chop them small so they cook evenly with the cabbage.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove while it’s hot and the flavors are at their peak. If you let it sit too long, the cabbage can become soggy.
With these tips, you’re all set for a truly delicious meal! Enjoy making this comforting dish and feel free to get creative in the kitchen!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious fried cabbage with beef, onion, and garlic. Keep in mind that these values are approximate, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 20g
This dish is not only satisfying but also provides a good balance of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Enjoy knowing that you’re indulging in something that’s as good for you as it is tasty!
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered some of the most common questions I get about making fried cabbage with beef, onion, and garlic. Hopefully, this helps you tackle any concerns you might have while whipping up this delicious dish!
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if you’re using a leaner meat.
What if I don’t have soy sauce?
No worries! If you’re out of soy sauce, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or even coconut aminos. Both will give you that lovely umami flavor without missing a beat!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If the cabbage gets a bit soggy, a quick sauté can help restore some of that texture!
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in some sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even snap peas. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the cabbage. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies!
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This fried cabbage with beef, onion, and garlic is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out into containers, and you’ll have a quick, nutritious meal ready to go for the week. Just make sure to store it in the fridge!
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not spicy at all, but if you like a kick, you can always add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha when cooking. Just adjust it to your heat preference, and you’ll be all set!
If you have any other questions or need more tips, feel free to reach out! I love sharing my culinary adventures and helping you make the most of your cooking experience.
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Fried Cabbage with Beef, Onion and Garlic: 5 Comforting Steps
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A savory dish of fried cabbage with beef, onion, and garlic.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and soy sauce.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust soy sauce to your taste.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: fried cabbage, beef, onion, garlic