Quick and Flavorful Cabbage Stir-Fry Recipe

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dish? This cabbage stir-fry is your answer.

 

In just 30 minutes, you can turn simple cabbage into a savory side or a hearty main course.

 

Why You'll Love This Recipe

 

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

 

Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or add protein like tofu, shrimp, or chicken to make it a complete meal.

 

Flavorful: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage.

 

Ingredients

 

1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced

 

1 tablespoon avocado or coconut oil

 

1 leek, cleaned and sliced into half rings

 

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

 

1 tablespoon garlic, minced

 

1/2 teaspoon salt

 

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

 

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari

 

2 tablespoons mirin

 

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

 

3 green onions, chopped

 

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

 

Instructions

 

1. Sear the Cabbage: Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the sliced cabbage and stir-fry without oil for 3-5 minutes until some edges are lightly charred.

 

2. Sauté Aromatics: Push the cabbage to the edges of the pan. Add the oil to the center, followed by the leeks, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the leeks are wilted.

 

3. Combine and Season: Sprinkle in the salt, then pour in the sesame oil, soy sauce, mirin, and rice vinegar. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

 

4. Garnish and Serve: Add the green onions and cilantro, stirring to incorporate. Serve the stir-fry over rice, buckwheat soba noodles, or rice noodles. For added flavor, garnish with red pepper flakes, black pepper, or crushed peanuts if desired.

 

Chef's Tips

 

Dry Sear for Flavor: Stir-frying the cabbage in a dry pan first enhances its natural sweetness and adds a smoky char.

 

Avoid Overcooking: To maintain a crisp texture, keep the total cooking time to about 8-10 minutes.

 

Meal Prep Friendly: Chop the vegetables and prepare the sauce ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

 

Adding Protein: For a more substantial meal, stir-fry your choice of protein (such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu) before preparing the cabbage. Season with salt and pepper, set aside, and fold into the stir-fry at the end.

 

Storage

 

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat quickly on the stovetop to maintain texture. Freezing is not recommended, as it may result in a softer texture upon thawing.

 

Serving Suggestions

 

Serve this stir-fry over seasoned Japanese rice, buckwheat soba noodles, or rice noodles. Top with stir-fried salmon, shrimp, or crispy tofu. Add extra vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for added nutrition and color. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, dulse flakes, or chili flakes for an extra flavor boost.

 

FAQs

 

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

 

Yes, red cabbage can be used and will add a vibrant color to the dish.

 

Is this recipe gluten-free?

 

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

 

Can I add other vegetables?

 

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.

 

Enjoy this quick and flavorful cabbage stir-fry as a delightful addition to your meal rotation.