Save A quick, vibrant vegetable stir-fry with tender cabbage, sweet peas, and savory garlic-soy flavor, perfect as a side or light main.
This cabbage stir-fry is the dish I turn to when I want something satisfying that comes together fast. The mix of garlic, soy sauce, and sweet peas always reminds me of my mom's kitchen when she would whip up veggie sides in minutes.
Ingredients
- Green cabbage: 1 medium head (about 700 g), core removed, thinly sliced
- Frozen green peas: 1 cup (150 g)
- Scallions (optional for garnish): 2, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger (optional): 1 tablespoon fresh, grated
- Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Rice vinegar: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Vegetable oil (e.g. canola, sunflower): 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Make the sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Heat the oil:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Cook aromatics:
- Add minced garlic (and ginger, if using) and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cabbage:
- Add sliced cabbage. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes, until it starts to wilt but remains crisp.
- Add peas:
- Add frozen peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2 to 3 minutes until peas are heated and cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Finish with sauce:
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss well to coat. Cook for another minute.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions.
Pin it I made this last week with my daughter, and she loved tossing the sauce in at the end while we both watched the cabbage turn glossy and fragrant.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over steamed rice for a light vegan meal, or pair with grilled tofu, tempeh, or chicken for added protein.
Recipe Variations
Swap green cabbage for Napa cabbage, or add shredded carrots and a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor and color.
Nutrition Information
Each serving has about 105 calories, 6 g total fat, 12 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Pin it This stir-fry comes together quickly and brightens any dinner table. Enjoy every bite while it's hot and crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute napa cabbage in this dish?
Yes, napa cabbage works well and provides a softer texture while absorbing the flavors nicely.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free without compromising taste.
- → What is the best oil for stir-frying?
Vegetable oils like canola or sunflower with a high smoke point are ideal for stir-frying to ensure even cooking.
- → Can I add more vegetables to this stir-fry?
Absolutely, shredded carrots or bell peppers can be added to enhance flavor and color.
- → How do I achieve crisp-tender cabbage?
Stir-fry over medium-high heat for a short time, about 3–4 minutes, so cabbage softens but retains some crunch.