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Stir-Fried Beef with Shredded Cabbage and Sesame Seeds – A Tasty Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on January 8, 2025 by Arif Chowdhury

If you’re on the lookout for a quick, flavorful meal that won’t sabotage your weight loss goals, you’ve landed in the right place!

Stir-Fried Beef with Shredded Cabbage and Sesame Seeds is not only delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients and can be made in under 30 minutes. Imagine tender strips of beef tossed with crisp cabbage, finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that perfect crunch.

This dish is a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal.

Why Choose Stir-Fried Beef with Shredded Cabbage?

You might be wondering why this dish is a great choice for your meal plan. Let’s dive into some of the compelling reasons:

  1. High in Protein: Beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Consuming protein can also help you feel full longer. In fact, research has shown that meals high in protein can reduce hunger levels by up to 15% compared to meals lower in protein.
  2. Cabbage: The Unsung Hero: Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable that’s high in fiber, making it perfect for weight loss. One cup of shredded cabbage has only about 22 calories and provides nearly 2 grams of fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied.
  3. Healthy Fats from Sesame Seeds: Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids. They also contain important minerals like calcium and magnesium. Just a tablespoon of sesame seeds adds about 52 calories and packs a nutritional punch.

Nutritional Benefits of Key Ingredients

  • Beef: Lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, provide essential nutrients including iron, zinc, and B vitamins. A 3-ounce serving of lean beef offers about 25 grams of protein and over 15% of your daily iron needs.
  • Cabbage: This cruciferous vegetable is rich in vitamins C and K. Vitamin C is crucial for immune function and skin health, while vitamin K plays a significant role in blood clotting and bone health.
  • Sesame Seeds: Beyond their nutty flavor, sesame seeds are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. They also contain lignans, which may aid in lowering cholesterol levels.

Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect from this vibrant dish:

  • Servings: 4 people
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry

  • 1 pound (450g) of lean beef (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
  • 4 cups of shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil or sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

  • 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds (toasted)
  • Green onions, sliced for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients (Time: 5 minutes)

  • Slice the Beef: Thinly slice the beef against the grain. This helps to make it more tender when cooked.
  • Chop the Veggies: Shred the cabbage, slice the onion, and mince the garlic and ginger. Having everything prepped will make cooking a breeze!

Step 2: Cook the Beef (Time: 5 minutes)

  • Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive or sesame oil over medium-high heat.
  • Stir-Fry the Beef: Add the sliced beef to the skillet in a single layer. Let it sear without stirring for about 2 minutes to get a nice browning, then stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until it’s just cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Veggies (Time: 5 minutes)

  • Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the Cabbage: Toss in the shredded cabbage and stir-fry for another 3 minutes until it’s tender but still crisp. You want to retain some crunch for texture!

Step 4: Combine and Flavor (Time: 3 minutes)

  • Return the Beef: Add the cooked beef back to the skillet with the cabbage and onion.
  • Add Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce and optional oyster sauce. Stir to combine everything and let it cook together for another 2 minutes to heat through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve (Time: 2 minutes)

  • Toast the Sesame Seeds: In a small dry pan, toast the sesame seeds over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until golden. Be careful not to burn them!
  • Plate the Dish: Serve the stir-fried beef and cabbage in bowls, topping each serving with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish.

Tips for Success

  • Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Opting for lean cuts will keep your dish healthy. Flank steak is a great option because it’s flavorful and tender when sliced properly.
  • Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for extra color and nutrients.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily double the ingredients and store portions in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

Why This Recipe is Ideal for Weight Loss

The Stir-Fried Beef with Shredded Cabbage and Sesame Seeds is an excellent option for those on a weight loss journey. Each serving is approximately 300-350 calories, making it a filling yet low-calorie meal.

The combination of protein from the beef and fiber from the cabbage helps to keep you full, reducing the likelihood of snacking later on.

The Importance of Mindful Eating

Mindful eating can enhance your weight loss efforts. Take the time to enjoy the flavors and textures of this dish as you eat. Studies have shown that being present during meals can lead to better food choices and reduced portion sizes.

Incorporating This Dish Into Your Diet

To make this dish even more balanced, consider serving it over a small portion of brown rice or quinoa. This adds additional fiber and nutrients, providing a well-rounded meal that keeps you satisfied.

Savor the Flavor of Healthy Eating

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be a chore. With recipes like Stir-Fried Beef with Shredded Cabbage and Sesame Seeds, you can enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal that supports your weight loss goals.

So gather your ingredients, turn up the heat, and whip up this delightful stir-fry that’s sure to impress. Remember, every healthy meal is a step toward a better you!