When it comes to exploring the diverse and vibrant world of Chinese cuisine, one often-overlooked ingredient is cabbage. This humble vegetable is a staple in many Chinese dishes, bringing a burst of freshness, crunch, and flavor to any meal. From stir-fries to soups, salads, and even pickled varieties, there’s no shortage of ways to incorporate cabbage into your cooking repertoire. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of 18 flavorful cabbage recipes that showcase the versatility of this underrated ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these dishes are sure to inspire and delight. So let’s get started on our culinary journey through China, exploring the many delicious ways cabbage can elevate your cooking and leave you wanting more.
Stir-fried Chinese cabbage with garlic
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of Chinese cabbage, paired with the savory flavor of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced Chinese cabbage and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
4. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Sichuan cabbage stir-fry
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this simple and spicy cabbage stir-fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger paste
– 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the ground ginger paste and toasted Sichuan peppercorns. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
5. If desired, add the red pepper flakes and stir-fry for another minute.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese cabbage and pork dumplings
This recipe yields a delicious and authentic take on traditional Chinese cabbage and pork dumplings, pan-seared to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped Chinese cabbage (Napa cabbage)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork-cabbage mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat with 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Pan-fry the dumplings until golden brown on the bottom (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Flip the dumplings and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Braised cabbage with soy sauce and ginger
Braised Cabbage with Soy Sauce and Ginger: A Simple yet Savory Side Dish
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the savory flavors of soy sauce and ginger, resulting in a delicious and comforting side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and grated ginger.
4. Pour the soy-ginger mixture over the cabbage and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the cabbage braise for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese cabbage and tofu soup
This comforting Chinese cabbage and tofu soup is a perfect remedy for a cold winter’s day. With its delicate balance of flavors and textures, this simple yet satisfying recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of Chinese cabbage (napa or bok choy), chopped
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups of vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped Chinese cabbage and stir-fry until slightly wilted.
4. Add the vegetable broth, soy sauce, and tofu cubes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has reached desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pickled Chinese cabbage (Suan cai)
This traditional Sichuan dish is a tangy and sour delight, perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient in various recipes. Pickling Chinese cabbage, also known as suan cai, brings out its natural sweetness and adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage (about 2 lbs), cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup salt
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage for about 5 minutes.
2. Rinse the cabbage pieces under cold running water to remove excess salt.
3. In a large pot, combine rice vinegar, water, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack the cabbage into a clean glass jar or container, leaving about 1 inch at the top. Pour the pickling liquid over the cabbage, making sure that all pieces are covered.
5. Store in the refrigerator. Allow the cabbage to pickle for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes simmering time)
Chinese cabbage and shrimp stir-fry
This recipe combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with the sweetness of succulent shrimp, all in a savory and aromatic stir-fry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for a party.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed cabbage rolls with minced pork
A classic Eastern European dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, these steamed cabbage rolls filled with savory minced pork are perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage head and cut out the center stalk.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place about 1/4 cup of the pork mixture in the center.
4. Fold the cabbage leaves over the filling to form a neat roll. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Place the rolls seam-side down in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
6. Steam for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese cabbage and mushroom stir-fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with the earthy taste of mushrooms, all in a quick and easy recipe. Perfect as a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium Chinese cabbage, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, Chinese cabbage, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cabbage and glass noodle salad
A refreshing and crunchy salad perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, this recipe combines the sweetness of cabbage with the chewy texture of glass noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of glass noodles
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the cabbage evenly.
3. Add the cooked glass noodles to the bowl and toss to combine with the cabbage mixture.
4. If using garlic, mince it and add it to the bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese cabbage and egg drop soup
A classic Chinese soup that’s both nourishing and flavorful, this recipe combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with the creamy texture of egg drop soup. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of Chinese cabbage, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and add chopped Chinese cabbage. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Crack in the eggs and stir gently with a spoon to create thin egg strands.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stir-fried cabbage with fermented tofu
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy the health benefits of fermented tofu and cabbage. The fermentation process gives the tofu a tangy, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the crunchy sweetness of stir-fried cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fermented tofu (doubanjiang), crumbled
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon grated ginger for added depth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add crumbled fermented tofu and cook until slightly browned, about 2 minutes.
3. Add sliced cabbage, garlic, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and optional ginger (if using).
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese cabbage and chicken hot pot
Soothe your soul with this hearty and flavorful hot pot, featuring tender chicken and crunchy Chinese cabbage in a savory broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Chinese cabbage (napa cabbage), chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, Chinese cabbage, chicken broth, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cabbage and carrot stir-fry with oyster sauce
A classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry that combines the sweetness of carrots and crunch of cabbage with the savory flavor of oyster sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons oyster sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the cabbage and carrots, and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Pour in the oyster sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute to coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese cabbage and beef stir-fry
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the crunch of cabbage with the savory flavor of beef, all cooked to perfection in a wok.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups Chinese cabbage (napa), thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage to the wok and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Return the beef strips to the wok and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and sour Chinese cabbage
This recipe is a classic Chinese dish that combines the crunch of fresh cabbage with the sweetness and tanginess of a sweet and sour sauce. It’s a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with many Asian-inspired main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage (napa or bok choy), thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the cabbage and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Pour the sweet and sour sauce into the wok and stir to combine with the cabbage.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the cabbage is coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese cabbage and wood ear mushroom stir-fry
This simple stir-fry recipe combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with the earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms, all in under 10 minutes. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, chopped
– 1/2 cup of wood ear mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, chili flakes, or sesame seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the wood ear mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, until it reaches your desired level of crunch.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings (soy sauce, chili flakes, or sesame seeds).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed cabbage with black bean sauce
A simple yet flavorful vegetarian dish that pairs perfectly with steamed cabbage and a savory black bean sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cut into wedges
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup black beans, cooked and mashed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the cabbage wedges to the boiling water and steam for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the black beans, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. Blend until smooth.
4. To serve, place the steamed cabbage on a plate and spoon the black bean sauce over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Cooking with cabbage just got a whole lot more exciting! This article features 18 flavorful Chinese cabbage recipes that will elevate your cooking game. From classic stir-fries to comforting soups and savory braises, there’s something for every palate. Try making Spicy Sichuan Cabbage Stir-Fry, Braised Cabbage with Soy Sauce and Ginger, or even Pickled Chinese Cabbage (Suan cai). Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go for the Steamed Cabbage Rolls with Minced Pork or the Sweet and Sour Chinese Cabbage. Whatever your taste buds crave, this collection has got you covered!
