Chinese Cabbage Stir Fry is a deliciously simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of cabbage with the perfect balance of spice and umami. With ingredients like garlic, dried red chilies, and soy sauce, this quick stir-fry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a side dish to complement any Asian-inspired meal. Whether you’re a fan of mild or spicy flavors, this recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Let’s whip up this tasty stir-fry in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 head Chinese cabbage* (about 1 pound)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 4-5 dried red chilies, deseeded and finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons cooking wine
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon vinegar
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Salt, to taste (I used ¼ teaspoon)
*Note: Napa cabbage is commonly used in Chinese cabbage stir-fries and works great for this recipe.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cabbage: Rinse the cabbage thoroughly under cold water, then chop it into bite-sized pieces, discarding the tough core. Set the cabbage aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Warm the Oil: In a spacious wok or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Once hot, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the Chilies: Add the chopped dried red chilies to the garlic and stir-fry for another 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic or chilies, as they can become bitter.
- Stir Fry the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the wok, tossing it quickly to combine with the garlic and chilies. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the cabbage starts to wilt but remains slightly crisp.
- Add the Seasonings: Pour in the cooking wine, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir-fry everything together for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the cabbage to absorb the flavors. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water to the wok to prevent sticking and help steam the cabbage.
- Finish with Vinegar: Drizzle in the vinegar and give the stir-fry one final toss. Add salt to taste (about ¼ teaspoon or more if needed) and stir in the chopped green onions. Cook for another minute until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight crunch.
- Serve: Remove the stir-fry from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish. Enjoy the cabbage stir-fry hot as a side dish to rice or noodles, or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
This Spicy Chinese Cabbage Stir Fry is a wonderful combination of flavors and textures, with the crisp, tender cabbage perfectly complemented by the bold, spicy notes of dried chilies and garlic. The simple ingredients come together quickly, making this a go-to dish for busy nights when you want something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Serve it alongside rice or noodles, and enjoy the flavors of a classic Chinese stir-fry right at home!