High-Volume Cabbage and Turkey Stir-Fry

Featured in: Hearty Dinners

This hearty stir-fry combines lean ground turkey with voluminous shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and crisp bell peppers for a satisfying meal that delivers big flavor without excessive calories. The Asian-inspired sauce featuring soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil coats every bite, while fresh garlic and ginger add aromatic depth. Perfect for meal prep, this dish reheats beautifully and keeps you full for hours thanks to its high protein and fiber content.

Updated on Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:08:13 GMT
Steaming ground turkey and shredded cabbage tossed with fresh ginger and garlic in a wok. Pin
Steaming ground turkey and shredded cabbage tossed with fresh ginger and garlic in a wok. | kitchenprairie.com

This High-Volume Cabbage and Turkey Stir-Fry is a light, flavorful meal packed with lean protein and fiber-rich vegetables. It is specifically designed to be a filling, low-calorie dinner that supports weight loss goals without sacrificing taste. Ready in just 30 minutes, it is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something healthy and satisfying.

Steaming ground turkey and shredded cabbage tossed with fresh ginger and garlic in a wok. Pin
Steaming ground turkey and shredded cabbage tossed with fresh ginger and garlic in a wok. | kitchenprairie.com

The combination of shredded cabbage and ground turkey creates a voluminous meal that feels indulgent while remaining light. The addition of fresh ginger and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic Asian-inspired flavors, while the julienned carrots and red bell pepper provide a delightful crunch and a boost of color.

Ingredients

  • Proteins: 500 g (1.1 lb) lean ground turkey
  • Vegetables: 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded; 2 large carrots, julienned; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 4 green onions, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • Sauces & Seasonings: 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari); 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tsp chili flakes; Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Garnish: 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds; Extra sliced green onions
Product image
Vacuum seal ingredients and leftovers to keep food fresh longer and simplify meal prep.
Check price on Amazon

Instructions

Step 1
Heat a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add sesame oil.
Step 2
Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
Step 3
Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4
Add cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender but crisp.
Step 5
Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes. Toss well to combine.
Step 6
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7
Remove from heat, stir in green onions, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and extra green onions.
Step 8
Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker
🔥 Black Friday: 57% OFF — Rare Occasion!
I personally use this model all the time for my recipes — soups, stews, rice, slow-cooking… it does everything. If you've been thinking about getting one, this Black Friday deal is **honestly one of the best I’ve seen**.
👉 Get the Black Friday Deal

Using a large non-stick skillet or a wok is essential to ensure the cabbage has enough room to cook evenly without becoming mushy. For the best texture, keep the heat high and stir constantly to achieve that perfect tender-crisp vegetable consistency. Grating the ginger fresh rather than using powder makes a significant difference in the flavor profile.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap the ground turkey for ground chicken, tofu, or tempeh. If you prefer a bit of extra heat, add a splash of sriracha or double the amount of chili flakes. For those following a strict gluten-free diet, ensure you use tamari or coconut aminos in place of standard soy sauce.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this stir-fry hot, straight from the wok. While it is incredibly filling on its own, it pairs beautifully with steamed brown rice or cauliflower rice for added volume. A final garnish of fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds adds the perfect finishing touch of texture and freshness.

Sautéed High-Volume Cabbage and Turkey Stir-Fry with julienned carrots and red bell pepper topped with sesame seeds. Pin
Sautéed High-Volume Cabbage and Turkey Stir-Fry with julienned carrots and red bell pepper topped with sesame seeds. | kitchenprairie.com

This High-Volume Cabbage and Turkey Stir-Fry is proof that eating for weight loss can be delicious and satisfying. With its balance of lean protein and nutrient-dense vegetables, it is a meal you can feel good about enjoying any night of the week.

Product image
Soft, absorbent towels keep counters dry while cooking, wiping spills, and handling dishes during everyday recipe prep.
Check price on Amazon

Recipe Questions & Answers

Is this dish suitable for weight loss?

Absolutely. With only 230 calories per serving and 28 grams of protein, this stir-fry provides excellent satiety while supporting a calorie deficit. The high fiber content from cabbage helps keep you feeling full longer.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, you can substitute broccoli, snap peas, bok choy, or mushrooms. The key is maintaining similar cooking times so vegetables stay tender-crisp rather than mushy.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

What can I serve with this stir-fry?

Enjoy on its own for a low-carb meal, or pair with steamed brown rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for added volume. It also works well over zucchini noodles.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Certainly. Substitute ground turkey with crumbled firm tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth if needed and ensure your soy sauce is suitable for your dietary preferences.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easily adaptable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

High-Volume Cabbage and Turkey Stir-Fry

Light, protein-packed dish with shredded cabbage, ground turkey, and crisp vegetables in a savory Asian-inspired sauce.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
15 min
Complete duration
30 min


Skill level Easy

Heritage Asian-Inspired

Output 4 Portions

Diet specifications No dairy, Without gluten, Low-Carbohydrate

Components

Proteins

01 1.1 lb lean ground turkey

Vegetables

01 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded (approximately 1.75 lbs)
02 2 large carrots, julienned
03 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
04 4 green onions, sliced
05 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

Sauces and Seasonings

01 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
02 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
03 1 tablespoon sesame oil
04 1 teaspoon chili flakes, optional
05 Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish

01 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
02 Extra sliced green onions

Directions

Phase 01

Heat cooking vessel: Heat a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil.

Phase 02

Brown the protein: Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 minutes.

Phase 03

Infuse aromatics: Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Phase 04

Cook vegetables: Add shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry for 5 to 7 minutes until vegetables are tender yet crisp.

Phase 05

Combine sauce elements: Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes if using. Toss well to combine.

Phase 06

Season to preference: Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Phase 07

Finish and plate: Remove from heat, stir in sliced green onions, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and additional green onions.

Phase 08

Serve: Serve immediately while hot.

Necessary tools

  • Large non-stick skillet or wok
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Spatula
  • Microplane grater or box grater for ginger

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain.
  • Contains soy from soy sauce; substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free accommodation
  • Sesame seeds and sesame oil may trigger allergic reactions; omit if necessary
  • Verify all ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination and undisclosed allergens

Nutrient content (each portion)

This data is offered as a general guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 230
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Protein: 28 g