Keto Asian cabbage stir-fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish. It brings together the principles of a ketogenic diet and traditional Asian cooking. This dish features finely sliced cabbage. The cabbage serves as a low-carb, nutrient-rich base. It is perfect for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.
The stir-fry typically includes a variety of colorful vegetables. These include bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. All are sautéed to keep their crispness and freshness. It also incorporates protein sources like sliced chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu. These proteins cook quickly in a hot wok and reach tender perfection.
To enhance the dish’s Asian flair, it is often seasoned with ingredients like ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. Tamarind can be used instead for a gluten-free choice. Sesame oil adds depth, and a touch of chili adds heat. Toasted sesame seeds and green onions are commonly used as garnishes, adding extra texture and flavor.
The result is a satisfying, quick-to-prepare meal. It is not only keto-friendly but also full of rich umami flavors. Moreover, it offers a variety of textures. This stir-fry is perfect as a standalone dish or served with cauliflower rice. It caters to those seeking a delicious way to enjoy Asian-inspired cuisine while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle.
This colorful keto stir-fry (also known as crack slaw) is not only easy to make but also amazingly tasty. This crunchy delight become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Consider trying it tonight!
What you need to Make Keto Asian cabbage stir-fry
- 650 g green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely chopped or grated
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- 3 scallions, chopped in 1/2-inch slices
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Wasabi mayonnaise
- 225 ml mayonnaise
- ½ tbsp wasabi paste
How to Make Keto Asian cabbage stir-fry
- Prepare the Cabbage:
Shred the cabbage finely using a sharp knife or a food processor. - Cook the Cabbage:
In a large frying pan or wok, heat half of the butter over medium-high heat.
Add the shredded cabbage and cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow the cabbage to soften but avoid letting it brown.
Add your choice of spices and vinegar, stirring to combine. Cook for an extra couple of minutes, then remove the cabbage from the pan and transfer it to a bowl. - Sauté Aromatics:
In the same frying pan, melt the remaining butter.
Add the minced garlic, chili flakes, and ginger. Sauté for a few minutes until fragrant. - Cook the Ground Meat:
Add the ground meat to the pan. Brown it until fully cooked. Most of the juices should evaporate. Lower the heat slightly. - Combine Ingredients:
Add the chopped scallions and the earlier cooked cabbage to the meat mixture. Stir until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Drizzle with sesame oil just before serving. - Prepare the Wasabi Mayonnaise:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and wasabi paste. Start with a small amount of wasabi and add more until the flavor is to your liking. - Serve:
Serve the stir-fry warm, topped with a dollop of wasabi mayonnaise.
Enjoy this delicious and satisfying Keto-Friendly Asian Cabbage Stir-Fry, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner! The wasabi mayonnaise adds a unique kick that complements the flavors beautifully.
Substituting ingredients for Keto Asian Cabbage Stir-Fry
Cabbage
- Shredded Brussels Sprouts: Offers a similar texture and is low in carbs.
- Napa Cabbage: A milder flavor and tender leaves, ideal for stir-frying.
- Collard Greens: Finely sliced, they can add a hearty texture.
Butter
- Coconut Oil: Adds a subtle sweetness and is great for cooking.
- Olive Oil: A healthy fat that can be used for sautéing.
- Ghee: Clarified butter with a rich flavor, perfect for high-heat cooking.
Ground Meat
- Shredded Chicken or Turkey: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey for a quicker choice.
- Tempeh or Tofu: For a vegetarian/vegan choice, these can add protein while keeping the dish low-carb.
Spices and Seasonings
- Garlic Powder: Can be replaced with onion powder or shallot powder for different flavor notes.
- Chili Flakes: Use fresh diced chili peppers for more heat or omit them for a milder dish.
Vinegar
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a slightly different tang and works well in stir-fries.
- Lemon Juice: For acidity, fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish.
Scallions
- Chives: A milder onion flavor that complements the dish.
- Yellow or White Onion: Sautéed until soft for a base flavor, though slightly higher in carbs.
- Leeks: Use the white and light green parts for sweetness and a unique taste.
Sesame Oil
- Peanut Oil: Good for frying with a different nutty flavor (if not nut-free).
- Olive Oil: A more common oil but with less sesame flavor.
Mayonnaise
- Greek Yogurt: A lower-calorie choice that provides creaminess but has a tangier taste.
- Avocado: Mashed avocado can create a creamy topping with a different flavor profile.
Wasabi
- Horseradish: Offers a similar spicy kick, but with a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Mustard: Can offer heat and flavor if wasabi isn’t available.
These substitutions can help adapt the recipe to fit personal preferences. They can also accommodate dietary restrictions or the ingredients you have on hand while keeping it keto-friendly!
Storing and Reheating Keto Asian Cabbage Stir-Fry
Storing:
- Cool the Stir-Fry:
- Allow the stir-fry to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which can lead to sogginess.
- Use Airtight Containers:
- Transfer the cooled stir-fry into airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers are both good options.
- Refrigeration:
- Store the stir-fry in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within a few days. It should last about 3-5 days when stored properly.
- Freezing:
- If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stir-fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, making sure to remove excess air. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating:
Note: Cabbage can become slightly softer when reheated, so it not have the same crunch as when freshly cooked.
- Reheating from the Refrigerator:
- Stove-top:
- Heat a small amount of oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the stir-fry and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method retains better texture.
- Microwave:
- Place the stir-fry in a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30 – second intervals until heated through, stirring in between.
- Stove-top:
- Reheating from the Freezer:
- Thawing First (Recommended):
- For best results, thaw the frozen stir-fry overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Stove-top:
- Once thawed, reheat as you would from the refrigerator using the stove top method.
- Microwave:
- If reheating directly from the freezer, microwave in 1-2 minute intervals until thawed and heated through, stirring regularly.
- Thawing First (Recommended):
Extra Tips:
- Avoid Overheating: Be cautious not to overheat the stir-fry. Overheating can lead to a mushy texture and loss of flavor.
- Freshen Up: If you find that the stir-fry has lost some freshness after reheating, add a splash of sesame oil. You can also squeeze fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Toppings: If possible, add fresh toppings (like scallions or sesame seeds) after reheating to restore some freshness and texture.
Often Asked Questions (FAQs) for Keto Asian Cabbage Stir-Fry
1. Is cabbage keto-friendly?
Yes, cabbage is low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, making it a great choice for a keto diet. It can be used as a substitute for higher-carb ingredients like rice and noodles.
2. Can I use a different type of protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground meat with shredded chicken or turkey. Plant-based proteins like tempeh or tofu can also suit your dietary preferences.
3. What can I use instead of wasabi for the mayonnaise?
If you don’t have wasabi, use horseradish. Spicy mustard or even hot sauce can also add a kick to your mayonnaise.
4. How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy when reheating?
To keep the texture of the cabbage, reheat it on the stove-top. This method is better than using the microwave. It allows for better control over the cooking time and heat.
5. Can I freeze this stir-fry?
Yes, you can freeze the stir-fry. Just store it in a freezer-safe container, and it should keep well for 2-3 months. Be aware that the texture will change slightly upon thawing and reheating.
6. What toppings can I add to enhance the stir-fry?
You can add toppings like sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and texture. A drizzle of extra sesame oil or a squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the dish.
7. How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe typically serves 4. This can vary depending on part sizes. It also depends on how much extra protein or vegetables you add.
8. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Keto Asian cabbage stir-fry is great for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
9. What can I serve as a side dish with this stir-fry?
You can serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a whole low-carb meal. For extra vegetables, consider a side salad or steamed broccoli.
10. Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely! You can adjust the heat level. Adjust the amount of chili flakes if you prefer less heat. You can also omit them altogether for a milder dish.
Keto Asian cabbage stir-fry
Keto Asian cabbage stir-fry is a delightful, low-carb dish packed with vibrant vegetables, savory protein, and bold flavors. Made with finely sliced cabbage as the base, this stir-fry combines fresh ingredients like bell peppers and broccoli, seasoned with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. It's a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for those following a ketogenic diet, delivering a taste of Asian cuisine without the carbs. Whether enjoyed on its own or served over cauliflower rice, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients
- 650 g green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely chopped or grated
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- 3 scallions, chopped in 1/2-inch slices
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Wasabi mayonnaise
- 225 ml mayonnaise
- ½ tbsp wasabi paste
Instructions
- Shred the cabbage finely using a sharp knife or a food processor.
- Fry the cabbage in half of the butter in a large frying or wok pan on medium-high heat. It takes a while for the cabbage to soften, but don't let it turn brown.
- Add spices and vinegar. Stir and fry for a couple of minutes more. Put the cabbage in a bowl.
- Melt the rest of the butter in the same frying pan. Add garlic, chili flakes and ginger. Sauté for a few minutes.
- Add ground meat and brown until the meat is thoroughly cooked and most of the juices have evaporated. Lower the heat a little.
- Add scallions and cabbage to the meat. Stir until everything is hot. Salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with sesame oil before serving.
- Mix together the wasabi mayonnaise. Start with a small amount of wasabi. Add more until the flavor is just right. Serve the stir-fry warm with a dollop of wasabi mayonnaise on top.
Notes
- Avoid Overheating: Be cautious not to overheat the stir-fry. Overheating can lead to a mushy texture and loss of flavor.
- Freshen Up: If you find that the stir-fry has lost some freshness after reheating, add a splash of sesame oil. You can also squeeze fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Toppings: If possible, add fresh toppings (like scallions or sesame seeds) after reheating to restore some freshness and texture.
- Store the stir-fry in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within a few days. It should last about 3-5 days when stored properly.
- If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stir-fry. Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, making sure to remove excess air. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 1014Total Fat: 89gSaturated Fat: 30gTrans Fat: 2gUnsaturated Fat: 53gCholesterol: 204mgSodium: 1321mgCarbohydrates: 13gNet Carbohydrates: 8gFiber: 4gSugar: 6gProtein: 41g
**Nutritional information on HRCookery is provided as a courtesy. We can't guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on the site. these figures should only be considered as estimates.
