Pin Recipe A quick, vibrant vegetable stir-fry with tender cabbage, sweet peas, and savory garlic-soy flavor is perfect as a side or light main. This colorful dish comes together fast and highlights the clean flavors of Asian-inspired cooking, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Whenever I make this cabbage stir-fry, I am amazed at how such humble ingredients can be so delicious. The combination of garlic, cabbage, and that savory sauce always reminds me of quick family dinners growing up.
Ingredients
- Green cabbage: 1 medium head (about 700 g), core removed, thinly sliced
- Frozen green peas: 1 cup (150 g)
- Scallions: 2, sliced (optional for garnish)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated (optional)
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Toasted sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Rice vinegar: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (e.g., canola, sunflower)
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Heat Pan:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Stir-Fry Aromatics:
- Add the minced garlic (and ginger, if using) and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage and stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until it starts to wilt but remains crisp.
- Add Peas:
- Add the frozen peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until peas are heated through and cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Add Sauce:
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss well to coat. Cook for another minute.
- Finishing Touches:
- Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions if desired.
Pin Recipe This easy stir-fry is a favorite whenever my extended family comes together. It disappears quickly from the table, especially when served alongside steamed rice.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy it as a light meal or paired with rice and grilled tofu. You can also add shredded carrots or swap in Napa cabbage for a twist.
Nutrition Information
Each serving provides about 105 calories, 6 g total fat, 12 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein, making it light yet satisfying.
Allergen Info
This recipe contains soy (from soy sauce) and may contain gluten if regular soy sauce is used. Double check labels for food allergies.
Pin Recipe This cabbage stir-fry delivers flavor in every bite and takes almost no time to prepare. It is sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cabbage is best to use?
Green cabbage sliced thinly works best for texture and quick cooking, but Napa cabbage or shredded carrots can add variation.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, using tamari instead of regular soy sauce ensures the stir-fry remains gluten-free.
- → Is it possible to add protein to this dish?
Serve alongside grilled tofu, chicken, or steamed rice to add protein and make it more filling.
- → How do I keep the vegetables crisp?
Stir-fry on medium-high heat for only a few minutes to wilt cabbage lightly while preserving a crisp texture.
- → Can I adjust the flavor of the sauce?
Absolutely, adding chili flakes or chili oil boosts heat, while maple syrup or sugar balances saltiness and acidity.