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Stir-Fried Beef with Shredded Cabbage and Carrots with Sweet Potato Wedges – A Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on January 14, 2025 by Arif Chowdhury

Looking for a delicious, nutritious meal that won’t sabotage your weight loss goals? You’re in the right place!

Today, we’re diving into a vibrant dish that’s as colorful as it is satisfying: Stir-fried Beef with Shredded Cabbage and Carrots, complemented by Sweet Potato Wedges. This dish is packed with flavor, nutrients, and a delightful crunch that’ll make your taste buds sing.

Imagine tender strips of beef stir-fried with fresh veggies, served alongside crispy sweet potato wedges. It’s a hearty meal that feels indulgent but is actually quite healthy.

Let’s explore the benefits of this dish, followed by a detailed recipe you can easily whip up.

Benefits of Beef

When chosen wisely, beef can be a great ally in your weight loss journey. Lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, contain high-quality protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle.

Did you know that a 3-ounce serving of lean beef contains about 22 grams of protein? This makes it an excellent choice for keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

Furthermore, beef is rich in important nutrients like iron and zinc. Iron helps transport oxygen in the body, while zinc supports a healthy immune system. Incorporating lean beef into your diet can help ensure you’re getting these essential nutrients without busting your calorie budget.

Cabbage and Carrots: Nutritional Powerhouses

Cabbage and carrots add not only color but also a wealth of nutrients to your meal. Cabbage is low in calories—just about 22 calories per cup—and high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel fuller longer.

It’s also packed with vitamins C and K, both of which support your immune system and bone health.

Carrots, on the other hand, are a fantastic source of beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. A medium carrot has only about 25 calories and offers a satisfying crunch that enhances the texture of your dish.

Sweet Potatoes: A Healthier Alternative

Sweet potatoes are a fantastic addition to any weight loss diet. They are rich in fiber and have a low glycemic index, which means they help regulate blood sugar levels.

A medium sweet potato contains about 112 calories and is loaded with vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. By swapping regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, you’re adding more nutrients while keeping the dish delicious and satisfying.

Nutritional Overview

This meal combines lean protein, colorful vegetables, and healthy carbohydrates, creating a balanced plate that supports weight loss without sacrificing flavor.

Recipe Overview

Servings: 4

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fried Beef:

  • 1 pound lean beef (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 4 cups shredded cabbage
  • 2 medium carrots, julienned or grated
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

For the Sweet Potato Wedges:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Wedges (10 minutes)

  • Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Toss the Wedges: In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato wedges, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the wedges are evenly coated.
  • Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wedges are golden and crispy.

Step 2: Stir-Fry the Beef and Vegetables (20 minutes)

  • Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Let it marinate while you prepare the vegetables, about 5 minutes.
  • Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the skillet and stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
  • Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
  • Combine: Return the beef to the skillet, mixing it with the vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and additional soy sauce if desired. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Plate the Dish: Serve the stir-fried beef and vegetables alongside the crispy sweet potato wedges.
  • Garnish: If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the beef for added flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

  • Choose Quality Beef: Opting for grass-fed beef provides additional nutrients and healthy fats, making your meal even more beneficial.
  • Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
  • Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potatoes in advance and reheat them before serving. The stir-fry is also great for meal prep; store it in the fridge for a quick lunch or dinner.

Nutritional Benefits Recap

This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, providing a balanced meal rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a great option for anyone looking to lose weight while still enjoying delicious food.

Interesting Facts

  • Studies suggest that increasing your vegetable intake can lead to a 20% reduction in overall calorie consumption. Incorporating more cabbage and carrots into your meals is a tasty way to achieve this!
  • Lean protein-rich meals like this one have been shown to help increase metabolism and support muscle growth, which can aid in weight loss.

Conclusion

Stir-fried beef with shredded cabbage and carrots, paired with sweet potato wedges, is not just a meal; it’s an experience!

The combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and crispy sweet potatoes will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

So grab your ingredients and whip up this flavorful dish that will delight your senses and support your health goals. You’re going to love it!