Ingredients

• 300g lean ground beef (preferably with 10-15% fat)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or any permitted oil in Diet No. 9)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• Half a head of young cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 egg
• Salt (to taste)
• Optional: sesame seeds and sesame oil for garnish
• Optional: a few drops of lemon juice for added flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

1. Heat the Pan: Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Cook the Beef: Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. You want to ensure that the beef is cooked through and crumbled into small pieces.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger: Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté them with the beef for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Add the Shredded Cabbage: Add the finely shredded cabbage to the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
2. Season with Soy Sauce: Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a salty note without the need for additional salt. Stir everything together until the cabbage starts to wilt, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Cook Gently: Lower the heat and allow the cabbage to soften. You can cover the skillet to trap some steam, making the cabbage more tender. If needed, add a tablespoon or two of water to help with the steaming process. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the cabbage is fully softened.

Step 3: Add the Egg

1. Make a Well for the Egg: Once the cabbage is soft and cooked through, make a small well in the center of the skillet.
2. Cook the Egg: Crack the egg into the well, letting it cook for a minute before stirring it into the mixture. The egg will act as a binder and provide extra richness to the dish. Stir until the egg is fully cooked and integrated with the beef and cabbage.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Garnish with Sesame: For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and drizzle a few drops of sesame oil before serving. This will give it a nice nutty aroma and taste.
2. Add Lemon Juice: For a touch of acidity and brightness, squeeze a few drops of lemon juice over the dish.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the sautéed cabbage and beef immediately. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of steamed vegetables for an extra boost of nutrition.

Cooking Tips

1. Use Lean Ground Beef: Choosing lean ground beef with around 10-15% fat content ensures that the dish remains healthy and suitable for diabetic diets without excessive fat intake.
2. Blanch the Cabbage: If you are using older, tougher cabbage, you may want to blanch it in boiling water for a minute or two before adding it to the skillet. This will soften it and make it cook faster.
3. Add Vegetables for Variation: Feel free to add more non-starchy vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the fiber content without increasing the carbs.
4. Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: To keep the sodium content in check, opt for a low-sodium soy sauce, especially since this dish already contains soy sauce for flavor.

Storage

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
2. Freezing: You can freeze the cooked cabbage and beef mixture for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 20 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 500 mg (depending on the soy sauce used)

This dish is high in protein and fiber while being low in carbs, making it suitable for both the keto diet and a diabetic-friendly eating plan like Diet No. 9.

FAQs

1. Can I use another protein source instead of beef?

• Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground “meat” alternatives to suit your dietary preferences or restrictions.

2. What other seasonings can I use?

• Besides soy sauce and garlic, you can experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or chili flakes to give the dish a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of any extra carbs in seasoning blends.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a ketogenic diet?

• Yes, this recipe is very keto-friendly. It’s low in carbohydrates, high in fat from the olive oil and beef, and has a moderate protein content. The egg and beef provide great sources of fat and protein, ideal for keto.

4. Can I use regular cabbage instead of young cabbage?

• Yes, you can use regular cabbage. Just keep in mind that older cabbage might need a bit more cooking time to soften properly.

5. What can I serve with this dish?

• This dish pairs well with a side of avocado for added healthy fats, or a small serving of leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients. If you’re following a keto diet, these options will help keep your carb intake low.

Conclusion

This keto-friendly sautéed cabbage with ground beef is an excellent choice for anyone looking to manage their blood sugar levels while still enjoying a flavorful and satisfying meal. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can create a nutritious dish that fits perfectly within both a diabetic diet and a ketogenic eating plan. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce gives this meal a delicious Asian-inspired twist, while the use of lean beef and cabbage ensures it remains healthy and balanced. Whether you’re managing diabetes or simply following a low-carb lifestyle, this recipe offers a tasty and wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare.