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

Indulge in this quick, Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This dish combines savory ground beef with a sweet and tangy sauce, resulting in a deliciously rich flavor while keeping the carb count low. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a healthy and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it over cauliflower rice or with steamed veggies for a complete, guilt-free dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe is designed for those hectic weeknights, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 20 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of ground beef, garlic, ginger, and savory sauces creates a delightful taste that will have your taste buds dancing.
• Low-Carb Delight: Enjoy all the flavor without the carbs, making it an excellent choice for low-carb diets.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a standalone meal or over cauliflower rice or steamed veggies for added nutrition.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools ready. Being organized makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Spatula
• Medium bowl
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for browning the beef evenly and ensuring all ingredients cook through properly.
• Spatula: Useful for breaking apart the meat while cooking and mixing everything together seamlessly.

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
• 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 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 minced garlic and ginger to the center. Cook while stirring constantly for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

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

Step 5: Make the Sauce

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

Step 6: Create Cornstarch Slurry

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with beef broth until fully dissolved. Add this slurry to the soy sauce mixture and stir 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 or until 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

Serving your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is an opportunity to get creative. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various serving styles that can enhance your dining experience.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, making each bite flavorful.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Adds a vibrant color and crunch, complementing the dish while keeping it healthy.
• Green Beans: Their slight sweetness balances the richness of the beef and cabbage.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Butter Lettuce: Use large leaves as a wrap to enjoy a fresh and crunchy bite, perfect for a lighter meal.

As a Salad

• Asian-Inspired Salad: Combine with shredded carrots, cucumber, and sesame dressing for a refreshing twist.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro or Basil: Sprinkling these herbs on top adds freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

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

To achieve the best results with your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish from good to great!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will provide a more robust flavor compared to their powdered counterparts.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add some Sriracha for an extra kick.
• Cook in Batches: If preparing for more people, consider cooking in batches to ensure even browning of the beef.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Make sure your cornstarch slurry is well mixed before adding it to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes off the heat can help the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Garnish Smartly: Adding sesame seeds or sliced green onions right before serving enhances both presentation and taste.

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

Pairing your Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage with the right side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this savory dish perfectly.

1. Zucchini Noodles: A light, low-carb substitute for pasta; sauté briefly for added texture.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the savory beef flavors.
3. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy and rich while keeping carbs low—perfect alongside this dish.
4. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: Quick-cooked spinach adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
5. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy; toss cucumbers with rice vinegar for extra zing.
6. Cauliflower Mash: A creamy side that’s easy to make; it complements the richness of the beef and cabbage well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the Cabbage: This can lead to mushy cabbage. Cook it just until softened to maintain a good texture.
• Not Browning the Beef Properly: Undercooked beef can affect flavor. Ensure the beef is browned well for richer taste.
• Skipping the Sauce Slurry: Not using a cornstarch slurry can result in a watery dish. Always mix cornstarch with broth before adding it to sauces for thickness.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Each ingredient varies in strength. Taste your dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Using Regular Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is high in sodium. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep your meal healthier.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, portion out servings before freezing.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil, heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this a Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage: 20-Minute Meal?

This recipe uses cabbage instead of traditional rice or noodles, significantly reducing carbohydrate content while still providing a filling meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option while maintaining similar cooking methods.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. Adjust seasonings based on personal taste preferences as well.

What should I serve with this dish?

This meal pairs well with cauliflower rice or steamed veggies for an added nutritional boost without extra carbs.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals later on.

Final Thoughts

The Low-Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage is a delightful blend of flavors that comes together in just 20 minutes. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep options, this dish is sure to please!