Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal

Indulge in this quick, low-carb Mongolian ground beef and cabbage recipe that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This dish features savory ground beef paired with a sweet and tangy sauce, creating a deliciously rich flavor without the carbs. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a healthy and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up. Serve it over cauliflower rice or with steamed veggies for a complete, guilt-free dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meal is ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy the rich flavors without worrying about carbs, perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
• Savory & Sweet Flavor: The combination of soy sauce and hoisin sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed veggies to suit your dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that pleases everyone at the table, from kids to adults.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Medium mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for browning meat evenly and allowing ample space to combine ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp blade makes prepping ingredients faster and safer.
• Medium mixing bowl: Useful for combining sauces before adding them to the skillet.

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Ingredients

For the Main Dish

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• ½ Head Cabbage (fresh large head, chopped)
• 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
• 8 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 Tbsp Ginger (minced)
• ½ Tsp Red Pepper Flakes

For the Sauce

• 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar Swerve
• ½ Cup Soy Sauce (low-sodium)
• ¼ Cup Hoisin Sauce
• 1 Cup Beef Broth
• 3 Tsp Cornstarch

For Garnish

• ⅓ Cup Green Onions (diced)
• 1 Tbsp Sesame Seeds (optional)

How to Make Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal

Step 1: Prep the Cabbage

Chop ½ head of fresh cabbage into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the pound of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Ginger

Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet. Add the minced garlic cloves and minced ginger to the center. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and mix it with the beef, garlic, and ginger. Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the mixture. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage begins to soften.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine low-sodium soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar swerve.

Step 6: Create a Slurry

In another small bowl, mix cornstarch with beef broth until fully dissolved. Add this slurry to your soy sauce mixture, stirring well.

Step 7: Combine and Thicken

Pour the sauce mixture over beef and cabbage in the skillet. Stir well to ensure even coating. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 8: Finish with Green Onions

Stir in diced green onions and cook for an additional minute.

Step 9: Serve

Optionally sprinkle sesame seeds over your dish for added texture and flavor.

Step 10: Enjoy

Serve hot as a standalone dish or over cauliflower rice for a delicious low-carb meal. Adjust seasoning to taste as needed.

How to Serve Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal

This delicious dish is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer it on its own or with a side, there are plenty of options to suit your taste.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• This low-carb alternative to traditional rice absorbs the flavors of the beef and sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• For a fresh twist, serve the mixture in crisp lettuce leaves for a crunchy, low-carb wrap that’s both fun and nutritious.

With Steamed Broccoli

• Pairing this meal with steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and boosts fiber content, perfect for a balanced plate.

Topped with Avocado

• Adding slices of creamy avocado enhances the richness of the dish while providing healthy fats that keep you full longer.

How to Perfect Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal

To ensure your dish is as flavorful and enjoyable as possible, consider these helpful tips for preparation and cooking.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference; start with less if you’re unsure.
• Cook in Batches: If making a larger quantity, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps achieve better browning.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together even more.

Best Side Dishes for Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal

Complementing your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage with sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Zucchini Noodles
   A fantastic low-carb alternative to pasta that pairs well with savory dishes.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These little veggies add crunch and flavor; toss them with olive oil and seasonings before roasting.

3. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
   A creamy side that mimics mashed potatoes without the carbs; blend steamed cauliflower with garlic for added flavor.

4. Sautéed Green Beans
   Quickly sauté green beans in sesame oil for a nutty flavor that complements the main dish perfectly.

5. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and herbs provides a cool contrast to warm meals.

6. Spicy Radish Slaw
   Shredded radishes mixed with lime juice and chili powder create a zesty side that adds crunch to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes can make your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold Ingredients: Using low-quality ingredients can compromise flavor. Always choose fresh ground beef and crisp cabbage for the best results.
• Bold Skipping Steps: Skipping the sautéing of garlic and ginger can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to cook these aromatics properly to enhance your dish.
• Bold Overcooking Cabbage: Overcooking cabbage can result in a mushy texture. Aim for tender but still crunchy cabbage by following cooking times closely.
• Bold Incorrect Sauce Ratios: Getting the balance of soy sauce and hoisin wrong can make the dish too salty or sweet. Measure carefully to achieve the perfect blend of flavors.
• Bold Neglecting Garnishes: Missing out on garnishes like green onions or sesame seeds may leave your dish lacking visual appeal. Don’t skip these final touches for added texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, covering loosely, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you get started.

What is Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal?

This dish features ground beef cooked with cabbage in a savory sauce, perfect for low-carb diets.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.

How do I serve Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal?

Serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal is not only quick but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level according to your taste. Give this delicious recipe a try, and enjoy a healthy dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor!