I absolutely love this recipe because the blend of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce with the crisp napa cabbage creates a delicious Asian-inspired comfort dish that’s both quick and easy to whip up. Plus, the drizzle of sesame oil and hint of rice vinegar give it that perfect umami balance, making it an irresistible, healthy addition to any meal!
A dish as uncomplicated and delicious as Stir-Fried Napa Cabbage makes my culinary heart sing. Minced garlic and fresh ginger add so much lovely perfume to the pan from the moment they hit the hot oil.
Soy sauce and sesame oil make this dish tasty in a way that’s almost indistinct—it’s just plain deliciousness. But I love this dish most for its slightly sweet, perfectly balanced flavor.
1. Ingredients:
– 1 medium head napa cabbage, chopped
– 8 cloves garlic, chopped
– 8 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– ½ cup soy sauce
– ½ cup sesame oil
– 1 cup sugar
– ¼ cup rice vinegar
Ingredients
Napa Cabbage:
Packed with fiber, low in calories, full of vitamins.
Garlic:
Strengthens immune system, contributes strong flavor.
Ginger:
Aids in digestion and provides a spicy warmth.
Soy Sauce:
Provides umami, savory depth.
Rice Vinegar:
Provides a subtle sweet and tangy flavor.
Sesame Oil:
The rich finish has a nutty aroma.
Ingredient Quantities
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 medium head napa cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet or wok, warm the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Minced garlic and ginger are added next, and these are stirred constantly until they become aromatic, which takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. The chopped napa cabbage is to be added to the skillet. It should be stirred and fried for 3-5 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to soften but stays crisp.
4. Drizzle the soy sauce over the cabbage and stir well to make sure it is all coated.
5. Scrape the mixture into a bowl. Drizzle the sesame oil over the mixture, and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Combine the rice vinegar and sugar in the pan, blending them together well. Let the ingredients meld for a further 2 minutes.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Take the stir-fried cabbage from the heat and shift it to a serving dish.
9. If you wish, you can garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
10. As a delightful side dish, serve this immediately. For a more complete meal, serve it over steamed rice.
Equipment Needed
1. Large skillet or wok
2. Cooking spoon or spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Mixing bowl
7. Serving dish
FAQ
- Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage?You can use green or savoy cabbage instead of napa cabbage, but the flavor and texture might vary a bit.
- Q: Is there a substitute for rice vinegar?A: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can take the place of rice vinegar.
- Q: How do I store leftover stir-fried napa cabbage?A: The leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Q: Can this dish be made in advance?A: You can prepare and chop all the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best served fresh. Cook right before serving for the best texture.
- Q: What can I serve this dish with?The dish goes perfectly with sushi rice, enhanced by the flavor of rice vinegar; grilled chicken; and grilled tofu.
- Q: Is there a way to make this dish spicier?A: For extra heat, add a dash of chili flakes or a finely chopped fresh chili to the stir-fry.
Substitutions and Variations
Canola oil or peanut oil can replace vegetable oil in a 1:1 ratio with similar cooking properties.
Garlic: If fresh garlic isn’t handy, make use of garlic powder or shallots.
Ground ginger: Use 1/4 teaspoon in place of fresh in a pinch.
Soy sauce: Think of tamari or coconut aminos as gluten-free replacements.
Rice vinegar can be substituted with either apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar when it is unavailable.
Pro Tips
1. Control the Heat: Start with medium-high heat to properly sauté the garlic and ginger without burning them. If they start to scorch, lower the heat slightly and continue stirring.
2. Prepare Ingredients in Advance: Since the cooking process is quick, have all ingredients prepped and measured before you start. This includes chopping the cabbage and green onions and mixing the rice vinegar and sugar.
3. Even Cabbage Cooking: Cut the napa cabbage into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. The stem is usually thicker, so slice it slightly thinner compared to the leafier parts.
4. Timing the Sauce Addition: Add the soy sauce after the cabbage has started softening to maintain the cabbage’s crispness. This allows the flavor to penetrate without overcooking.
5. Enhance the Aromatics: If you prefer a stronger aromatic flavor, consider adding a small amount of minced onion or shallot along with the garlic and ginger.
Stir Fried Napa Cabbage Recipe
My favorite Stir Fried Napa Cabbage Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Large skillet or wok
2. Cooking spoon or spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Mixing bowl
7. Serving dish
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 medium head napa cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, warm the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Minced garlic and ginger are added next, and these are stirred constantly until they become aromatic, which takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. The chopped napa cabbage is to be added to the skillet. It should be stirred and fried for 3-5 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to soften but stays crisp.
4. Drizzle the soy sauce over the cabbage and stir well to make sure it is all coated.
5. Scrape the mixture into a bowl. Drizzle the sesame oil over the mixture, and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Combine the rice vinegar and sugar in the pan, blending them together well. Let the ingredients meld for a further 2 minutes.
7. Add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Take the stir-fried cabbage from the heat and shift it to a serving dish.
9. If you wish, you can garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
10. As a delightful side dish, serve this immediately. For a more complete meal, serve it over steamed rice.
