This Beef and Napa Cabbage Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish made with tender beef, crisp Napa cabbage, garlic, and a savory soy-based sauce.
Inspired by classic Asian stir-fry recipes, this meal is perfect for quick dinners, high-protein meals, low-carb recipes, and healthy weeknight cooking.
The combination of juicy beef and lightly cooked cabbage creates a balanced dish that is both comforting and nutritious.
Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s ideal when you want a simple homemade meal that tastes better than takeout.
Ingredients
For the beef
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the stir-fry
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 4 cups Napa cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup green onions, cut into pieces
For the sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water
- ¼ cup water or beef broth
Optional
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
- chili flakes or chili oil for heat
Instructions
1. Marinate the beef
In a bowl, mix sliced beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the vegetables.
2. Prepare the sauce
In a small bowl, mix:
- soy sauce
- oyster sauce
- sugar
- water or broth
- cornstarch slurry
Stir well and set aside.
3. Cook the beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add beef in a single layer.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until browned.
Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Cook the vegetables
In the same pan, add garlic and onion.
Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Napa cabbage and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
5. Combine everything
Return beef to the pan.
Pour in the prepared sauce.
Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
Add green onions and mix gently.
6. Serve
Serve hot on its own for a low-carb option or over rice for a complete meal.
Tips for best flavor
- slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness
- cook on high heat for best stir-fry texture
- do not overcook cabbage to keep it slightly crisp
- great for meal prep
Recipe details
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
High protein
Low carb option
Quick dinner
