Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that’s fast, satisfying, and full of flavor, look no further than this Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork. In just 20 minutes, you can create a vibrant dish where tender cabbage and savory pork come together in a glossy, soy-spiked sauce. Not only does it deliver on comfort and taste, but it also manages to be incredibly budget-friendly, making it an absolute staple for busy weeknights. You’ll love how this recipe transforms humble ingredients into something truly special with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork comes together with a handful of basic ingredients, each adding its own irresistible layer to the finished dish. These elements are all about building big flavor, gorgeous color, and just the right crunch with a reliably simple grocery list.

• Sesame oil: Toasty and nutty, it’s the flavor backbone of any stir fry and delivers unmistakable depth right from the start.
• Ground pork: Rich and juicy, it soaks up all the sauces and spices, delivering savory satisfaction in every bite.
• Onion: Sliced thin so it melts into the pan, becoming sweet and mellow as it mingles with the cabbage and pork.
• Shredded cabbage: The star! It turns beautifully tender yet keeps a bit of its crunch, and soaks up every bit of flavor.
• Soy sauce: For that deep, umami punch; it ties everything together while adding saltiness and color.
• Rice vinegar: A splash of brightness that balances the richness of the pork and sesame oil.
• Garlic powder: Quick and convenient, it adds aromatic warmth without any chopping fuss.
• Black pepper: Just a hint helps wake up the flavors and adds a gentle touch of heat.
• Optional: Green onions or sesame seeds: Sprinkle on at the end for a pop of freshness and visual appeal.

How to Make Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork

Step 1: Sizzle the Pork

Start by heating sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground pork. Let it brown undisturbed for a minute or two, then break it up with a spatula. You want those little nooks and crannies to get a bit crisp. Cook the pork until it’s deeply browned and cooked through—this builds that crave-worthy, savory flavor at the heart of your Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork.

Step 2: Add Onion and Cabbage

Next, scatter in the thinly sliced onion and all your shredded cabbage. Don’t worry if the pan looks overloaded at first—cabbage wilts down dramatically as it cooks. Stir fry everything together for 5 to 7 minutes, tossing often so nothing burns. You’re aiming for vegetables that are soft but still have a slight bite, with some pieces picking up a lovely golden, caramelized edge.

Step 3: Season and Finish

Now, it’s time for the magic touch: stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well, making sure every strand of cabbage is coated with that savory, tangy sauce. Cook for 2 more minutes just to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly. Turn off the heat—the main event for your Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork is ready to serve.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your creation to a serving dish and give it a final sprinkle of chopped green onions or a shower of sesame seeds. These optional toppings add a burst of color and crunch, taking your stir fry visually and texturally over the top.

How to Serve Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork

Garnishes

A finishing touch of fresh green onions or nutty sesame seeds can really bring your Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork to life. Even a tiny drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of lime can invite a whole new level of flavor. Don’t be shy with that extra sprinkle—it’s all about those happy finishing details!

Side Dishes

This stir fry is robust enough to stand on its own, but it also welcomes a sidekick. Pile it over warm steamed rice or a bowl of fluffy jasmine rice for something cozy, or try it alongside simple sautéed greens or a quick cucumber salad. If you’re watching carbs, spoon it into lettuce leaves for a handheld bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond bowls! Use your Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork as a filling for rice paper rolls, a topper for Asian-inspired tacos, or tuck it inside wraps for easy lunchboxes. It’s also delicious spooned over noodles or even used to stuff roasted bell peppers. The possibilities are as limitless as your cravings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork holds up surprisingly well in the fridge. Transfer any extra to an airtight container and chill within two hours—this keeps everything fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Don’t worry if the cabbage softens a bit; the flavors deepen as they mingle.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away, this dish freezes nicely. Let it cool completely, then scoop portions into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label, date, and pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a quick meal, this quick thaw-and-heat wonder will save the day.

Reheating

To reheat, simply toss your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat until piping hot, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through. If needed, add a splash of water or extra soy sauce to perk up the flavors and restore some juiciness.

FAQs

Can I use other ground meats instead of pork?

Absolutely! This recipe is super flexible—try ground chicken, turkey, or even beef if you like. Each brings its own spin, but the basic technique for your Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork works beautifully with any protein.

Is this recipe gluten free?

It can be! Just use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. The rest of the ingredients in your Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork are naturally gluten free, so with one easy swap, it’s suitable for almost everyone.

Can I prep this dish in advance?

Definitely. You can chop the cabbage and onions ahead of time, and even brown the pork the night before. When it’s go-time, you’ll just need to toss everything together and finish the stir fry in no time at all.

What other veggies work well in this stir fry?

Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra color and crunch. This Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork serves as a fantastic canvas for your favorite seasonal produce.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of chili oil, or a sprinkle of fresh chilies when you sauté the pork. You control the spice, so make it as mild or fiery as you please!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall in love with your skillet all over again, give this Cabbage Stir Fry with Ground Pork a try. It’s speedy, delightful, and endlessly customizable—just the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again. Gather your ingredients and enjoy every quick, savory bite!

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