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Mongolian Ground Beef Cabbage

A comforting low-carb dish featuring savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a glossy, slightly sticky sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Keto
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 gives a richer flavor; leaner is fine) Can swap with ground turkey or pork.
  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a head) Can swap with napa cabbage for a sweeter texture.
  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil or vegetable oil Olive oil can be used as a substitute.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons erythritol or your preferred sugar substitute Can use coconut sugar if not strict keto.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, erythritol, and rice vinegar until the sweetener dissolves and the mixture is glossy. Set aside.
Cooking
  1. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. When the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it is mostly browned and you see little bits starting to crisp, about 5 to 6 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Let the beef sit undisturbed for 30 seconds at a time to encourage crispy bits for added flavor.
  4. Toss in the shredded cabbage, stirring to combine with the beef. Let it wilt and soften.
  5. Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it into the pan. Toss everything to coat evenly. Reduce heat to medium and let simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Sprinkle crushed red pepper if using, adjust seasoning as needed, and fold in most of the sliced green onions, reserving a few for garnish.
  7. Serve warm in shallow bowls or family-style on a platter, garnished with sesame seeds.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave. Can freeze for up to 3 months.