Sesame Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

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Sesame Beef & Cabbage Stir-Fry

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Beef & Marinade:

1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp toasted sesame oil

For the Stir-Fry & Sauce:

- 1/2 large head of green or Napa cabbage, shredded (about 4-5 cups)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp cooking oil (like avocado or vegetable oil), divided
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, the cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This process, known as “velveting,” ensures the meat stays incredibly tender.
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), rice vinegar, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Set aside.
Sear the Meat: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until nicely browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Sauté Aromatics & Cabbage: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shredded cabbage and toss well. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt but still retains a slight crunch.
Bring It Together: Return the beef (and any resting juices) to the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over the top. Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and evenly coats the meat and vegetables.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat. Stir in the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.