Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage is a delightful dish that brings rich flavors and vibrant textures to your table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare. With the combination of tender ground beef, crisp cabbage, and aromatic spices, this stir-fry stands out as a delicious option that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This stir-fry can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
- Flavor-Packed: The blend of garlic, ginger, and hoisin sauce infuses each bite with mouthwatering flavors.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sauce to suit your taste.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious cabbage and lean ground beef, this meal is both hearty and wholesome.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or wok: A spacious cooking surface allows for even heat distribution and prevents overcrowding when stir-frying.
- Cutting board: Essential for safe chopping of vegetables and meat while keeping your workspace organized.
- Sharp knife: A well-sharpened knife ensures clean cuts, improving presentation and cooking efficiency.

Ingredients
For the Beef and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 small onion, finely sliced
For the Sauce
- cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
How to Make Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Wash and slice the cabbage into thin strips. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Finely slice the onion to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Allow it to become hot but not smoking.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Ensure it’s fully cooked before proceeding.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Once the beef is cooked through, add minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced onion to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Incorporate Cabbage
Add 3 cups of thinly sliced green cabbage to the mixture. Toss everything together well so that the cabbage wilts slightly but remains crunchy.
Step 6: Finish with Sauce
Pour in your cup of soy sauce (adjusting for low sodium if preferred) and add 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce. Mix everything thoroughly for about another minute until coated evenly.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Remove from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage on its own or over rice for a complete meal!
This flavorful dish is sure to impress family and friends while being easy enough for anyone to master!
How to Serve Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage
Serving this delicious Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage is simple and can be customized to your taste. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal experience.
Pair with Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – This fragrant rice complements the flavors of the stir-fry beautifully.
- Brown Rice – A heartier option that adds a nutty flavor while increasing fiber content.
- Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice provides a light base for the stir-fry.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing taste.
- Green Onions – Sliced green onions provide crunch and a mild onion flavor that pairs well with beef.
Incorporate Additional Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Adds color and nutrition, making your meal more balanced.
- Sautéed Bell Peppers – Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory beef and cabbage.
How to Perfect Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage
Achieving perfection in your Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for best results.
- Use High Heat – Cooking on high heat helps achieve a nice sear on the beef and keeps the veggies crisp.
- Prep Ingredients Ahead – Having all ingredients ready before cooking allows for smooth preparation and prevents overcooking.
- Adjust Sauce to Taste – Start with less soy sauce and hoisin; you can always add more if needed for flavor balance.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches if necessary so that each ingredient gets properly cooked without steaming.
Best Side Dishes for Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage
Complementing your stir-fry with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Steamed Edamame – These protein-packed soybeans offer a perfect snack or side, providing a slight saltiness.
- Vegetable Spring Rolls – Light and crispy, spring rolls filled with fresh veggies add texture and flavor contrast.
- Garlic Noodles – Flavorful noodles tossed in garlic butter enhance the overall Asian-inspired theme of your meal.
- Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with cucumbers, sesame oil, and vinegar balances the richness of the stir-fry.
- Quinoa Pilaf – Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs or spices creates a nutritious side that pairs well with beef.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness and creamy texture provide an excellent counterpart to savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Avoid overcrowding the pan. When cooking your Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage, overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a nice sear.
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Don’t forget to prep your ingredients first. Preparing all your ingredients before you start cooking will help ensure that everything cooks evenly and at the right time, making the process smoother and quicker.
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Be cautious of using too much oil. While sesame oil adds great flavor, too much can make your stir-fry greasy. Stick to the recipe’s suggested amount for optimal taste.
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Watch out for overcooking the cabbage. To maintain that crispy texture, cook the cabbage just until tender but not mushy. This will add a delightful crunch to your dish.
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Using high-sodium soy sauce can overpower flavors. Opt for low sodium soy sauce to control saltiness and let the other ingredients shine through in your Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover stir-fry in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best freshness.
Freezing Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage
- Allow the stir-fry to cool completely before freezing.
- Place in freezer-safe containers or bags with as much air removed as possible.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative! It will provide a lighter flavor while still being hearty.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use coconut aminos or tamari as alternatives if you’re looking for gluten-free options.
How do I make it spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha during cooking for an extra kick!
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
How do I store leftovers of Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and texture. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal that brings excitement to your dinner table!
Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage
Enjoy a quick and flavorful Mongolian-Style Ground Beef Stir-Fry with Crispy Cabbage that’s perfect for busy weeknights! Try it today!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 small onion, finely sliced
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Gather and prepare all ingredients: wash and slice the cabbage, mince the garlic and grate the ginger, and slice the onion.
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add ground beef to the skillet; cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and onion; cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add sliced cabbage; toss everything together until the cabbage wilts slightly but stays crunchy.
- Pour in soy sauce and hoisin sauce; mix well for about a minute until fully coated.
- Serve immediately on its own or over rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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