stir fried purple cabbage recipe

The Best stir fried purple cabbage recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite stir-fried purple cabbage recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason – it’s not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and packed with nutrients. The key to this recipe is the way we cook the cabbage.

We use a wok or large skillet over high heat, stirring constantly, to bring out the natural sweetness in the cabbage. This technique is called ‘stir-frying,’ and it’s a game-changer for any home cook looking to add some excitement to their meals. I remember first trying stir-fried purple cabbage at a local Asian market, where I fell in love with its unique flavor and texture.

The vendor told me that it was a traditional dish from the southern region of China, where cabbage is plentiful and often stir-fried with garlic and ginger. Since then, I’ve experimented with various combinations of ingredients and seasonings, but the core technique remains the same. As for why my family loves this recipe so much, I think it’s because it’s both comforting and versatile.

We can serve it as a side dish, or add protein like chicken or tofu to make it a main course. And because it’s so easy to customize, everyone in my household gets to contribute their own twist on the recipe. In terms of health benefits, stir-fried purple cabbage is an excellent choice.

It’s low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make gluten-free or vegan-friendly by swapping out the soy sauce or adding plant-based protein sources.

Stir Fried Purple Cabbage

4.7 from 806 votes

A vibrant and quick stir fry that turns purple cabbage into a savory, slightly tangy side dish. The high heat cooking preserves the cabbage’s crunch and beautiful color.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time8 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time18 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

1 small head purple cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat until a drop of water sizzles on contact.
2Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan evenly.
3Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil.
4Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
5Add the sliced purple cabbage to the wok.
6Stir fry for 3 to 4 minutes, tossing frequently, until the cabbage is tender-crisp and slightly wilted, with some charred edges.
7Drizzle the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil over the cabbage.
8Add the red pepper flakes if using.
9Toss everything together and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce is well incorporated and the cabbage is glossy.
10Remove the wok from the heat.
11Transfer the stir fried cabbage to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
12Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large wok or skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For extra protein, add 200g of sliced firm tofu or cooked chicken during step 3. You can substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.

Watch Video Of How Stir Fried Purple Cabbage Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want a quick weeknight dinner. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to store and reheat – simply refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze them for later use. When reheating, simply microwave individual portions until hot and serve over rice or noodles.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Stir Fried Purple Cabbage

Q: What is stir-fried purple cabbage?

A: Stir-fried purple cabbage is a Chinese-inspired dish made by cooking shredded cabbage quickly over high heat with garlic, ginger, and sometimes meat or seafood.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Yes! This recipe can be easily adapted to be vegetarian-friendly by swapping out the soy sauce for tamari or Nama shoyu.

Q: Can I use other types of cabbage in this recipe?

A: While we prefer purple cabbage for its unique flavor and texture, you can experiment with other varieties like green or napa cabbage if you prefer.

Q: Do I need a wok to make this recipe?

A: No! While a wok is ideal for stir-frying due to its high sides and flat bottom, you can also use a large skillet or sauté pan with high heat tolerance.

Q: Can I store leftover stir-fried purple cabbage in the fridge?

A: Yes! After cooling completely, store leftover stir-fried purple cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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