Mediterranean Quick Stir-Fried Beef with Cabbage and Carrot Strips
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–22 minutes
Servings: 2–3
This quick stir-fry is a fast, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal. Tender beef strips or ground beef are cooked with crisp cabbage and carrot strips, seasoned with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying, packed with vegetables, and ready in under 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or beef strips
2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced or shredded
1 cup carrots, matchsticks or shredded
1–2 tbsp cooking oil (canola, vegetable, or sesame oil)
Seasonings and Sauces:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced or grated
2–3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
Optional Garnishes:
Spring onions or green onions, thinly sliced
Sesame seeds
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Slice or shred cabbage and carrots.
Mince garlic and ginger.
If using beef strips, cut them into thin, bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef or beef strips and cook until browned and cooked through (about 4–6 minutes).
Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
Stir-Fry Vegetables
In the same pan, add another small drizzle of oil if needed.
Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cabbage and carrots, stir-frying for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
Combine and Season
Return the cooked beef to the pan.
Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Stir everything together for 1–2 minutes, ensuring the sauce evenly coats the beef and vegetables.
Serve
Transfer to serving plates or bowls.
Garnish with spring onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot.
Tips
Even Cooking: Cut beef into uniform thin strips for quick and even cooking.
High Heat: Use high heat to get a nice sear on the beef without overcooking it.
Crisp Veggies: Don’t overcook cabbage and carrots; stir-fry just until tender-crisp to maintain texture and color.
Layer Flavors: Add garlic and ginger to the pan before vegetables to infuse the oil and maximize flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust soy sauce, vinegar, or sesame oil as needed.
One-Pan Cooking: Use a wok or a large skillet to make tossing and combining ingredients easier.
Variations
Protein Swap: Use chicken strips, turkey, or tofu for a different protein option.
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms for more color and nutrients.
Spice Kick: Include a pinch of red chili flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or fresh chili slices for heat.
Noodle or Rice Base: Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or noodles to make it a complete meal.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this stir-fry ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cooked beef and vegetables can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the stir-fry soggy.
Q: Can this recipe be made low-sodium?
A: Use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari and limit added salt. You can also enhance flavor with garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
A: Replace the beef with tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative. Use sesame oil and soy sauce for flavoring.
Q: Can I add more flavor?
A: Try adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the savory soy sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Nutrition
(per serving, serves 3) – approximate
Calories: 280–310 kcal
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 5 g
Fat: 17 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Values may vary depending on the type of beef, oil, and soy sauce used.
Conclusion
This quick stir-fry is a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s ready in about 20 minutes. The tender beef, crisp cabbage, and sweet carrot strips pair beautifully with garlic, ginger, and soy-based seasonings. It’s a versatile dish that works well for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a light lunch. With easy adjustments for protein, veggies, and seasoning, it’s a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired stir-fry that can suit many tastes.