This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a straightforward one-pan meal that combines brisk cooking with bold flavors and varied textures. The blend of savory spices with vibrant vegetables makes this dish not only delicious but also highly satisfying, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup required.
- Quick cook time: Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Flavor-packed: An engaging mix of spices and fresh ingredients.
- Customizable: Easily adjust spices and veggies to taste.
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing, enhancing flavors with a slight fruity note.
- 1 pound ground beef: The protein foundation of the dish, adaptable to ground turkey or chicken for variety.
- 1/2 teaspoon minced ginger: Adds a spicy, warm undertone. Fresh ginger preferred, or substitute with 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a concentrated garlic flavor, easily replaced with one minced garlic clove.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides depth, substitute with 1/4 cup finely chopped onion if desired.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds mild heat, can be adjusted to taste or replaced with a pinch of cayenne.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Boosts overall flavor with a slight kick.
- 1 teaspoon coconut sugar: Balances the dish with a touch of sweetness; brown sugar can be used instead.
- 1/2 large head green cabbage, sliced: Supplies crunch and bulk, a vital veggie component.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: For sweetness and color, yellow or green peppers can be used as well.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Offers color and slight sweetness, an essential part of the vegetable mix.
- 3 green onions, chopped: Provides a fresh, slightly sharp flavor. Scallions can work if green onions not available.
- 3 tablespoons coconut aminos (or tamari/soy sauce): Adds umami; choose based on dietary preference (gluten-free or soy-free options).
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Brings tanginess to balance the flavors, easily swapped with rice vinegar.
- Sesame seeds for garnish: Add texture and visual appeal; optional but recommended.
How to Make It
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. The oil should shimmer when it’s ready, ensuring your beef sears correctly for an optimal, caramelized flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Add the ground beef and minced ginger to the hot skillet. Break the meat apart with a spatula, cooking until most of the pink is gone—around 5 minutes. This step enhances the dish with the aromatic essence of ginger.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and coconut sugar into the skillet. Stir well, cooking for another minute until the spices release their fragrance, deepening the dish’s flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine the Vegetables
Add the cabbage, bell pepper, carrots, and green onions. Gently toss everything to blend. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly yet maintain some texture—a perfect contrast to the beef.
Step 5: Final Seasoning
Pour in the coconut aminos and stir well for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well-coated and the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Finish with Vinegar
Add apple cider vinegar, turn off the heat, and give the mix one last stir. This step cuts the richness and adds a gleaming finish to the dish.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results, adding a splash of soy sauce if needed to revive the moisture and flavor.
What can I serve with this skillet dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with cooked rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Additionally, it can stand alone as a hearty and complete meal.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version while maintaining the protein content and texture.
