This Sesame Ginger Ground Beef Slaw is a flavorful, quick dinner option with savory ground beef combined with crunchy slaw and a zesty sesame ginger sauce. It’s packed with bold flavors and makes a satisfying meal in no time!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 bag of coleslaw mix
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
3. Once the beef is cooked, drain excess fat if necessary and pour the sauce mixture over the beef. Stir to coat and simmer for about 2 minutes.
4. Add the coleslaw mix to the skillet and stir until well combined and the slaw begins to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Sprinkle the sesame seeds and green onions over the mixture and stir again.
6. Serve hot and garnish with additional sesame seeds if desired.

Nutrients

Serving size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Total fat: 22g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary fiber: 3g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 30g

What Makes Sesame Ginger Ground Beef Slaw So Special?

At the heart of this dish is the flavorful combination of ground beef and crunchy coleslaw mix. While the beef adds a savory richness, the slaw provides a refreshing contrast with its crisp texture. The sesame ginger dressing ties everything together with its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. The result is a dish that is full of contrast, both in texture and taste, yet perfectly harmonious.

What sets this dish apart from traditional ground beef meals is the unique dressing. Sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce create a deep umami flavor, while the ginger adds a hint of spiciness. The addition of brown sugar balances out the sharpness of the vinegar, creating a well-rounded sauce. As the beef and slaw mingle, the flavors infuse, making every bite an explosion of taste.

Health Benefits of Sesame Ginger Ground Beef Slaw

One of the standout features of this recipe is how it manages to be both delicious and relatively healthy. When you look at the nutritional breakdown, you’ll see that this dish provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, all while being low in carbohydrates. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, such as iron and zinc, which are vital for maintaining energy levels and supporting the immune system.

The slaw mix, often made up of cabbage, carrots, and sometimes other vegetables, adds a nice dose of fiber and vitamin C. Fiber is essential for digestive health and helps you feel full for longer, which can aid in weight management. Additionally, the sesame seeds used in the dish are a rich source of calcium, magnesium, and healthy fats. These small seeds pack a punch when it comes to supporting bone health, heart health, and reducing inflammation.

The sesame ginger dressing, while flavorful, also comes with benefits. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been used for centuries to support digestion and reduce nausea. It can also help reduce muscle pain and soreness, making this dish not only tasty but potentially beneficial for those with active lifestyles.

How to Customize Sesame Ginger Ground Beef Slaw

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. While the base recipe is fantastic as it is, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your preferences, dietary restrictions, or available ingredients. Below are a few ideas to get you started:

• Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, or if you’re looking for a leaner alternative, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu. These alternatives will work well with the sesame ginger dressing and still provide a satisfying texture and flavor.

• Add More Vegetables: While the slaw mix provides a good amount of vegetables, you can always add more to increase the nutrition. Consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded zucchini for added crunch and nutrients. You could also try adding some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.

• Spice It Up: If you love heat, you can adjust the level of spice in the dish by adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even some fresh chili peppers. For an even bolder flavor, drizzle some sriracha sauce on top before serving.

• Make it Low-Carb: If you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, you can replace the slaw mix with a combination of shredded lettuce or cabbage. Additionally, if you want to lower the carb count further, consider reducing the amount of brown sugar in the dressing or swapping it for a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.

• Make it Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground meat, or use tofu crumbles. The sesame ginger dressing is already plant-based, so it fits perfectly into a vegan diet.

What to Serve with Sesame Ginger Ground Beef Slaw

This dish is flavorful enough to stand on its own, but you can always pair it with side dishes that complement its bold taste and textures. Here are some great options:

• Rice or Noodles: If you’re looking to make the meal more filling, consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or a bowl of noodles. Both options will soak up the delicious sesame ginger sauce and enhance the overall experience.

• Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add more veggies to your meal, roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, broccoli, or cauliflower are great choices. They bring a nice depth of flavor to the dish and balance out the richness of the beef.

• Asian-Inspired Soup: Pairing this dish with a light soup, such as miso soup or a simple clear broth with mushrooms, would make for a well-rounded Asian-inspired meal.

• Dumplings or Spring Rolls: For a complete Asian-inspired feast, consider serving some steamed dumplings or crispy spring rolls as an appetizer.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is simple. Place the sesame ginger ground beef slaw in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for about 3 to 4 days, making it an ideal meal prep option. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it just as tasty the next day.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Sesame Ginger Ground Beef Slaw

In conclusion, the Sesame Ginger Ground Beef Slaw is a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. It combines delicious ingredients, healthy nutrients, and a unique flavor profile that is sure to impress both family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for something flavorful and quick, this dish checks all the boxes.