Cabbage Stir-Fry

Prep: 10 min Cook: 3 min Serves: 5 Cuisine: Asian

A vibrant and flavorful cabbage stir-fry that combines crunchy vegetables with a subtle sweetness and savory notes. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal, it suits vegetarians and those seeking a light, satisfying dish packed with fresh flavors and easy to prepare on busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. olive or vegetable oil
  • 1 medium cabbage, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 c. chopped onion
  • 1/2 c. chopped red or green bell pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 2 tsp. sugar
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 Tbsp. water

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet until hot.
  2. Add chopped cabbage, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir-fry until the cabbage is just tender and light green, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add water and cover; remove from heat.
  5. Let stand for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider incorporating soy sauce or sesame oil for an Asian twist. You can substitute the cabbage with kale or bok choy for different textures. If you prefer more heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes. Make sure not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This cabbage stir-fry pairs beautifully with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or tofu for added protein. For a refreshing contrast, consider a light salad like Strawberry Rhubarb Salad to complement the dish's flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to create steam and prevent sticking, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cabbage Stir-Fry contains roughly 103 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1530mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).

103 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.3g 5% DV
Total Fat 3.9g 5% DV
Carbs 15.7g 6% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 1.7g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1530mg 67% DV
Potassium 150.1mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 1.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 22mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 10.1mg 11% DV
Calcium 30.8mg 2% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cabbage for this stir-fry?

It's best to use fresh cabbage for the best texture and flavor, but if you only have frozen cabbage, make sure to thaw and drain it well before stir-frying. Keep in mind that it may release more water, so adjust cooking time accordingly.

What other vegetables can I add to this stir-fry?

Feel free to incorporate a variety of vegetables such as carrots, snow peas, or broccoli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the additional vegetables to ensure everything is tender yet crisp.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this cabbage stir-fry is great for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and can be easily reheated. Just make sure to store it without any additional sauces or garnishes to maintain freshness.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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