Better Than Takeout: Low Carb Mongolian Beef with Cabbage
Ditch the sugar and keep the flavor with this 30-minute Low Carb Mongolian Beef. It’s a keto-friendly weeknight winner that’s totally addictive!
It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast.
You want takeout flavor without the sugar crash. This Low Carb Mongolian Beef is the absolute answer. It is savory, juicy, and ready in minutes. You will never look at a delivery menu again.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total game-changer for your healthy reset. It delivers all that sticky, savory goodness you crave. We swapped the sugar for erythritol to keep it keto-friendly. The shredded cabbage adds a perfect, satisfying crunch.
It is ready in 30 minutes from start to finish. Your whole family will beg for seconds tonight. This is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution for busy people. You get restaurant-quality food right in your own kitchen.
Simple Method
Making this dish is incredibly simple and fast. You will start by searing the beef at high heat. This creates those crispy, golden edges we all love. Then, you quickly stir-fry the cabbage in the same pan. The sauce thickens up in seconds and coats everything perfectly.
Simple Ingredients
Most of these items are pantry staples you already have. Fresh ginger and garlic make the flavor pop.
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or liquid aminos
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp xanthan gum
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, sweetener, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the marinade sauce.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large wok or heavy skillet over high heat.
- Add the beef slices in a single layer and sear until browned and crisp at the edges, approximately 2 minutes per side, then remove beef from the pan and set aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan and add the shredded cabbage. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked beef to the pan with the cabbage and pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients.
- Slowly sprinkle the xanthan gum over the liquid while stirring constantly to prevent clumping until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
- Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and toss in the sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately as a standalone dish or over cauliflower rice.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish steaming hot for the best experience. It pairs perfectly with a side of cauliflower rice. You can also add extra red pepper flakes for heat. This is the perfect weeknight dinner for busy families. It feels like a treat but keeps you on track.
How to Store Leftovers
Store your leftovers in an airtight container for three days. It reheats beautifully in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid the microwave to keep the beef from getting chewy. This recipe is also great for meal prep lunches. Just pack it with your favorite low-carb base. It stays fresh and delicious for days.
Pro Tips
- Slice your beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Use a very hot pan for the best beef sear.
- Don’t crowd the pan when browning the meat slices.
- Sprinkle xanthan gum very slowly to avoid any clumping.
- Fresh ginger makes a massive difference in the final flavor.
- Use liquid aminos for a gluten-free and soy-free option.
- Shred your cabbage thinly for the best overall texture.
- Serve it immediately while the beef is still crispy.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap the beef for thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs.
- Add fresh broccoli florets for extra green nutrition.
- Use more red pepper flakes if you love a spicy kick.
- Top with toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
- Drizzle with sriracha for a modern spicy twist.
Quick Answers
What can I use instead of xanthan gum?
You can use a small amount of cornstarch if carbs allow. Otherwise, just simmer the sauce longer to reduce it naturally.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, sirloin or ribeye work great for this stir-fry. Just ensure you slice the meat very thin for quick cooking.
Stop dreaming about takeout and start cooking this instead. Your body and your taste buds will thank you!
— Jasmine

Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, sweetener, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the marinade sauce.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large wok or heavy skillet over high heat.
- Add the beef slices in a single layer and sear until browned and crisp at the edges, approximately 2 minutes per side, then remove beef from the pan and set aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan and add the shredded cabbage. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Return the cooked beef to the pan with the cabbage and pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients.
- Slowly sprinkle the xanthan gum over the liquid while stirring constantly to prevent clumping until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
- Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and toss in the sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately as a standalone dish or over cauliflower rice.
