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Easy Keto Beef and Crispy Cabbage Stir Fry

keto beef and crispy cabbage stir fry - featured image

A quick and easy low-carb stir fry featuring tender beef and crispy cabbage, perfect for keto and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 1 medium head green cabbage (about 4 cups shredded)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced thinly
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Trim any excess fat and slice the beef thinly against the grain into strips about 1/4 inch thick.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef strips with 2 tablespoons soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Toss well and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Shred the cabbage into thin strips about 1/4 inch wide. Avoid washing after shredding to keep it dry.
  4. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive or avocado oil. Wait until the oil shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
  5. Add the marinated beef in a single layer and sear for about 2 minutes without stirring. Flip and cook the other side for another 1-2 minutes until browned but not overcooked. Remove beef from pan and set aside.
  6. Add the remaining oil to the pan. Toss in the shredded cabbage and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened but still crunchy with golden edges.
  7. Return the beef to the pan with the cabbage. Add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir together for 1-2 minutes to combine and heat through.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more soy sauce if needed. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep cabbage crispy; cook in batches if needed. Do not wash shredded cabbage to maintain crispness. Use high smoke point oils like avocado or light olive oil. Marinate beef briefly to avoid mushiness. Reheat leftovers in a skillet to preserve texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto, low-carb, beef stir fry, crispy cabbage, quick dinner, healthy, gluten-free, high protein