Go Back
Healthy cabbage stir-fry in a colorful bowl with fresh ingredients

Cabbage Stir-Fry

This quick cabbage stir-fry is a savory, aromatic dish that comes together in minutes using simple pantry staples.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian, Vegetarian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the stir-fry
  • 1 head Green cabbage (thinly sliced) Ensure slicing is thin for quick cooking.
  • 1 medium Carrot (julienned or thinly sliced) Optional, if included.
  • 1 medium Onion (thinly sliced) Optional, if included.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Aromatics add flavor.
  • 1 inch Fresh ginger (minced) Optional, if included.
  • 2 tablespoons Oil (for stir-frying) Use vegetable or sesame oil.
  • 3 tablespoons Soy sauce Or the sauce base specified in the recipe.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar Optional, if included.
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame oil Optional, for flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Sweetener (such as sugar or honey) Optional, for a touch of sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Optional, for thickening.
  • 1 cup Water As needed for sauce consistency.
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Adjust according to preference.
  • to taste Red pepper flakes Optional, for heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Thinly slice the cabbage and any other vegetables to ensure quick and even cooking.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and any other sauce ingredients until smooth.
Cooking
  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the garlic (and ginger, if using) and stir briefly until fragrant.
  3. If using onion and carrot, add these first and stir-fry until they begin to soften.
  4. Add the cabbage in batches if necessary, tossing constantly until it collapses and becomes manageable.
  5. Continue to stir-fry until the cabbage is tender-crisp with some lightly browned edges.
  6. Pour the sauce around the sides of the pan and toss well to coat the cabbage.
  7. Cook until the sauce turns glossy and clings to the cabbage.
  8. Finish with any additional seasoning as desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet to maintain texture. Can be made ahead and reheats well.