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. This dish brings together crunch, sweetness, and umami all in one pan.
This stir-fry has become my go-to when I need a veggie-packed meal in a hurry. Its bright colors and fresh flavors always remind me of weeknight cooking successes.
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
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground
- 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 the minced garlic (and ginger, if using) and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir-Fry Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until it starts to wilt but remains crisp.
- Add Peas:
- Add the frozen peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2 to 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.
Save My family loves how adaptable this stir-fry is, letting us use whatever veggies we have in the fridge. It is a staple for midweek dinners and even picky eaters enjoy its mild sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cabbage stir-fry over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside grilled tofu or chicken for a hearty meal.
Nutrition Information
Each serving contains approximately 105 calories, 6 g total fat, 12 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Allergen Info
Contains soy; may contain gluten if regular soy sauce is used. For gluten-free, use certified tamari and always check ingredient labels.
Save 
Enjoy this easy cabbage stir-fry as a wholesome veggie dish that complements any Asian-inspired meal. It is great for quick weeknight dinners.
Kitchen Help
- → Can I use Napa cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes, Napa cabbage works well and offers a slightly sweeter, more tender texture when stir-fried.
- → What can I substitute for frozen peas?
Fresh peas or sugar snap peas make excellent alternatives, adding a crisp sweetness.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Replace soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce to maintain flavor without gluten.
- → Is there a way to add spice to this dish?
Adding a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil during cooking introduces a pleasant heat.
- → What oil is best for stir-frying these vegetables?
Vegetable oils with high smoke points like canola or sunflower oil ensure even cooking without burning flavors.