Save A quick, vibrant vegetable stir-fry with tender cabbage, sweet peas, and savory garlic-soy flavor is perfect as a side or light main.
I first tried this easy cabbage stir-fry on a busy weeknight when I wanted something plant-based and satisfying—the garlic and soy sauce make everything so delicious.
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
- 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.
- Add aromatics:
- Add the minced garlic (and ginger, if using); stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage and stir-fry for 3 4 minutes until it starts to wilt but remains crisp.
- Add peas:
- Add the frozen peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2 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.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions if desired.
Pin it This stir-fry always reminds me of making simple veggie dishes for my family and seeing everyone ask for seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cabbage stir-fry over steamed rice, or pair with grilled tofu or chicken for a heartier meal.
Variations
Try swapping green cabbage for Napa cabbage, or add shredded carrots for extra color and crunch.
Nutrition
One serving contains about 105 calories, 6 g fat, 12 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Pin it This cabbage stir-fry is easy, fast, and packed with satisfying crunch and savory notes perfect any night of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the cabbage crisp during cooking?
Stir-fry the cabbage on high heat for a short time, about 3-4 minutes, to retain its crunch while allowing it to soften slightly.
- → Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be added during the last few minutes of cooking until tender.
- → What oil works best for stir-frying this dish?
Vegetable oils with high smoke points like canola or sunflower oil are ideal for stir-frying.
- → Is it possible to adjust the flavor intensity?
Adjust the amount of soy sauce and garlic to suit your taste; adding chili flakes can provide additional heat.
- → What can I serve this cabbage dish with?
It pairs well with steamed rice, grilled proteins like tofu or chicken, or can be enjoyed on its own.
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to maintain gluten-free status.