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Cabbage Stir Fry (Quick, Flavorful & Budget-Friendly)
Isla Marie

Cabbage Stir Fry

A quick and flavorful stir-fried cabbage dish with garlic, onions, and savory seasonings. The cabbage becomes tender with slightly crisp edges, making it a light yet satisfying side or main dish. Perfect for busy weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 110
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:
  • 1 small cabbage shredded
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 small onion sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 carrot julienned, optional
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
Optional Add-ins:
  • Green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Cooked chicken shrimp, tofu, or eggs

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step 1. Prepare Vegetables
  1. Shred cabbage and slice onion and carrot.
Step 2. Heat Oil
  1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Step 3. Cook Onion and Garlic
  1. Add onion and cook until slightly softened. Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4. Add Cabbage
  1. Add cabbage and carrots to the pan. Toss well to combine.
Step 5. Stir Fry
  1. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until cabbage softens but still has a slight crunch.
Step 6. Add Seasoning
  1. Pour in soy sauce and add black pepper and chili flakes if using. Stir well.
Step 7. Finish Cooking
  1. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until flavors combine.
Step 8. Serve
  1. Top with green onions or sesame seeds if desired and serve warm.

Video

Notes

  • Cook over medium-high heat for best texture.
  • Avoid overcooking to keep cabbage slightly crisp.
  • Taste before adding extra salt because soy sauce is salty.
  • Add protein like tofu or chicken to make it a full meal.
  • Sesame oil can be used for extra flavor.