Save It A quick, vibrant vegetable stir-fry with tender cabbage, sweet peas, and savory garlic-soy flavor, making it perfect as a side or a light main.
This stir-fry became a weeknight staple for me because it uses simple ingredients I always have on hand. The ginger and garlic bring the kitchen alive with aroma, and the sweet peas add color every time.
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 or tamari: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Rice vinegar: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (e.g., canola, sunflower)
Instructions
- Make the sauce:
- Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper in a small bowl and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high. Add garlic (and ginger, if using) and 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:
- Stir in frozen peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until peas are heated and cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Finish with sauce:
- Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables and toss well to coat. Cook for another minute.
- Taste and serve:
- Remove from heat, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and garnish with sliced scallions if desired.
Save It My family loves piling this stir-fry over steaming rice for quick weeknight dinners. Even picky eaters scoop up second helpings when those sweet peas burst through the cabbage!
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy as a side dish with grilled tofu, chicken, or fish. It also makes a tasty topping for steamed rice or rice noodles.
Customization Ideas
Swap green cabbage for Napa cabbage, or add shredded carrots for more variety. A splash of chili oil brings an extra kick!
Nutrition Facts
Each serving has about 105 calories, 6 g fat, 12 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein—making it perfect for a balanced, veggie-rich meal.
Save It A delicious stir-fry bursts with flavor and texture. Make it again and again by switching up veggies and sauces to suit the season.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage provides a tender yet crisp texture; Napa cabbage or shredded carrots can be used for variation.
- → Can I substitute frozen peas with fresh ones?
Yes, fresh peas can be used and should be added towards the end to maintain their sweetness and texture.
- → How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Swap soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free alternative to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- → What cooking oil is recommended?
Neutral oils like canola or sunflower oil work well for stir-frying without overpowering flavors.
- → Can I add heat to this dish?
A pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can be included to add a mild spicy kick.