Low Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
Low Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage
This low carb Mongolian ground beef and cabbage is a keto-friendly spin on the Chinese takeout classic — savory, slightly sweet, and ready in 20 minutes flat. The sauce mimics Mongolian beef with soy, garlic, and ginger while shredded cabbage replaces noodles for a satisfying low-carb dinner that doesn’t feel like a sacrifice.
Why This Works
- Takeout flavor, keto macros — ~7g net carbs per serving
- 20 minutes one pan dinner
- Ground beef — faster and cheaper than slicing steak
- Cabbage noodle swap — bulky, satisfying, low carb
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- ⅓ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar substitute (Swerve or monk fruit)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Sesame seeds, green onions to serve
How to Make It
Step 1 — Brown ground beef in olive oil 5 min. Drain fat.
Step 2 — Add garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes. Cook 30 sec.
Step 3 — Add cabbage. Stir-fry 4–5 min until wilted but still crunchy.
Step 4 — Mix soy sauce, sugar substitute, sesame oil. Pour over. Toss 2 min until everything is coated and glossy. Top with sesame seeds and green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this really keto?
About 7g net carbs per serving with sugar substitute. Use coconut aminos for fewer carbs than soy sauce.
Can I use real sugar?
Yes — 2 tbsp brown sugar adds about 6g carbs per serving (not keto-strict but lower carb than takeout).
What is Mongolian beef sauce?
A sweet-savory Chinese-American sauce: soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger. The original uses cornstarch for thickness — this keto version relies on reduction.
Can I use sliced steak instead?
Yes — slice flank steak thin against the grain. Sear at high heat 2 min. Rest of the recipe stays the same.
Can I add other vegetables?
Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms all work. Keep total veggies around 4 cups.
Can I serve over rice?
Yes (non-keto) — jasmine or brown rice. For keto, serve over cauliflower rice or eat as-is.
Good for meal prep?
Excellent — 4 days refrigerated. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Can I make it spicier?
Add Sriracha, gochujang, or extra red pepper flakes. A drizzle of chili oil at serving is also great.
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Discover the Flavorful Low Carb Mongolian Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe
A flavorful and satisfying low carb dish featuring tender ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and a harmonious mix of spices. This Mongolian-inspired recipe is versatile, healthy, and perfect for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small head cabbage, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in sliced cabbage and cook until it starts to wilt, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Pour over the beef and cabbage mixture.
- Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Season with salt and pepper, garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious blend of flavors!
