Weeknight Crack Slaw is a quick and easy one-pot recipe that’s perfect for busy evenings. Packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients, this dish combines ground beef, cabbage, and Asian-inspired seasonings for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients for Weeknight Crack Slaw
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 head cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned or grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How to Make Weeknight Crack Slaw
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Add thinly sliced cabbage and julienned/grated carrots to the skillet.
- Stir-fry the vegetables until they begin to wilt and soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Season the Dish
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and Sriracha sauce (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning and spiciness according to your preference.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve the Weeknight Crack Slaw hot, either on its own or over steamed rice or cauliflower rice.
About the Main Ingredients
Ground Beef
Ground beef is the protein base of this dish, providing hearty flavor and texture. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option or use ground turkey or chicken as alternatives.
Cabbage
Cabbage adds bulk and a satisfying crunch to the dish. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your meal.
Carrots
Carrots contribute sweetness and color to the crack slaw. They are also packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce adds umami depth and saltiness to the dish. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Rice Vinegar
Rice vinegar provides a slight tanginess and helps to balance the flavors in the dish. You can substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
Sesame Oil
Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor to the crack slaw. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly.
Sriracha Sauce (Optional)
Sriracha sauce adds a spicy kick to the dish. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference or omit it for a milder version.
Green Onions and Sesame Seeds
Green onions and sesame seeds are used as garnishes to add freshness and a crunchy texture to the crack slaw. They also enhance the presentation of the dish.
In conclusion, Weeknight Crack Slaw is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and flavorful meal that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this crack slaw recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and spice levels to create a dish that’s uniquely yours!
