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Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe

4.5 from 50 reviews

This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe offers a savory and healthy twist on traditional Mongolian flavors by combining ground beef with shredded cabbage. Quick to prepare and packed with delicious Asian-inspired seasonings such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger, this skillet dish makes a perfect low-carb meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

  • 1/2 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cups green cabbage, shredded
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Meat

  • 1 pound ground beef

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic: Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Cook the cabbage: Mix in the shredded green cabbage and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften and wilt.
  4. Add seasonings: Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together well and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld.
  5. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and top with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired for extra flavor and texture. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
  • Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
  • This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Low carb, Mongolian beef, Ground beef recipe, Cabbage stir-fry, Asian skillet recipe, Easy weeknight dinner