Cabbage Stir-Fry with Garlic

A quick, vibrant vegetable stir-fry with tender cabbage, sweet peas, and savory garlic-soy flavor is perfect as a side or a light main. This colorful dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy nights when you crave something fresh and flavorful.

I first made this stir-fry on a weeknight when the fridge was a little bare, and it quickly became a go-to for easy dinners. The combination of crisp cabbage and sweet peas with a punchy garlic-soy sauce always hits the spot—plus, it works as a main or side with rice!

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: 1/4 teaspoon
• Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (e.g. canola, sunflower)

Instructions

Make the sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Set aside.

Heat oil:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Sauté 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 through and cabbage is tender-crisp.

Toss with sauce:

Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss well to coat. Cook for another minute.

Finish:

Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions if desired.

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This recipe gets requested most Sunday evenings in our home—even the little ones love the sweetness from peas mixed with umami soy flavor. It's a meal everyone can enjoy together with some steamed rice or simply on its own.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this stir-fry as a vibrant side dish with your favorite mains or enjoy it as a light meal with steamed rice. It's also delicious paired with grilled tofu or chicken for extra protein.

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

Try swapping green cabbage for Napa cabbage or add shredded carrots for color and sweetness. A pinch of chili flakes or drizzle of chili oil gives this dish a satisfying kick.

Nutrition Information

Per serving: Calories 105, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 12 g, Protein 4 g. For a lighter option, use less oil and add more vegetables.

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Enjoy this stir-fry steaming hot from the skillet—it's fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights!

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of cabbage works best for this stir-fry?

Green cabbage with a firm head and crisp leaves offers the ideal texture and flavor, but Napa cabbage is a good alternative for a softer bite.

→ Can I substitute frozen peas with fresh ones?

Yes, fresh peas can be used. Just blanch them briefly or add them a bit earlier during cooking to ensure tenderness.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce to maintain the same savory flavor without gluten.

→ What is the best oil to use for stir-frying here?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, like canola or sunflower oil, work best to achieve a quick, even cook without overpowering the flavors.

→ Can I add heat to this dish?

Absolutely. A pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil added while cooking will introduce a pleasant spicy kick.

→ What dishes pair well with this stir-fry?

It complements steamed rice perfectly and pairs well with grilled tofu, chicken, or other protein options for a balanced meal.