This cabbage stir-fry recipe is a perfect balance of flavors, offering a healthy, light, and nutritious meal option that’s easy to prepare and delicious to enjoy. With crisp cabbage, vibrant vegetables, and a touch of seasoning, this dish is ideal for anyone seeking a quick, nutritious, and low-calorie meal. Packed with vitamins and fiber, cabbage is a powerhouse ingredient that contributes to overall health. Whether served on its own or as a side dish, this cabbage stir-fry will become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized cabbage (shredded)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil of your choice)
- 1 onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 carrot (julienned)
- 1 bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated, optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for added flavor)
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh coriander or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the cabbage. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water and then slice it into thin strips or shred it using a sharp knife or a food processor.
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it softens and becomes slightly translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) to the pan and sauté for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Now, add the julienned carrots and bell peppers to the pan. Stir-fry these vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still vibrant and crunchy.
- Add the shredded cabbage to the pan, stirring continuously to combine all the ingredients. Allow the cabbage to cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking.
- Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the cabbage mixture. Stir everything well to coat the cabbage and vegetables in the seasoning.
- Add ground black pepper and salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
- For a touch of acidity and extra flavor, add rice vinegar to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the cabbage soften slightly but still retain some crunch.
- Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, remove the pan from the heat and transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh herbs such as coriander or parsley for added flavor and a colorful presentation.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or as a light main course. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a simple grain of your choice.
Enjoy this healthy and flavorful cabbage stir-fry as part of a balanced diet. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without compromising on taste. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can modify it with additional vegetables or proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp, depending on your preference.