Flavorful Cabbage Stir Fry
If you need a quick, affordable, and satisfying dish that delivers bold flavor with simple ingredients, this cabbage stir fry is a reliable choice. It is light yet comforting, packed with colorful vegetables, and finished with savory sauces and a hint of sesame. The cabbage becomes tender while still keeping a slight crunch, and the combination of garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce gives it rich depth without feeling heavy.
This recipe works beautifully as a side dish alongside grilled meats or rice, but it is just as enjoyable on its own for a lighter meal. It is also flexible, so you can easily adjust it to what you have in your kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: About 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large carrot, julienned
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, and onion. Keep all vegetables similar in size for even cooking.
Heat the pan. Place a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
Cook the onion. Add sliced onion and stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened.
Add garlic. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add carrot and bell pepper. Stir fry for another 2 minutes to slightly soften them while keeping some crunch.
Add cabbage. Add the sliced cabbage in batches if necessary. Toss well to coat in oil.
Season. Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce. Sprinkle black pepper and red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly.
Cook until tender-crisp. Continue stir frying for 4 to 5 minutes, tossing frequently. The cabbage should soften but still retain some texture.
Finish with sesame oil. Drizzle sesame oil over the stir fry and toss once more.
Garnish and serve. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Tips
Use a sharp knife or mandoline for thin, even cabbage slices.
Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
Keep heat relatively high for proper stir fry texture.
Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Add sauces along the sides of the pan for better distribution.
Avoid overcooking to maintain slight crunch.
Taste before adding extra salt, as soy sauce is already salty.
Toast sesame seeds lightly for deeper flavor.
Use fresh garlic for the best aroma.
Serve immediately for optimal texture.
Variations
Add sliced chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Stir in cooked noodles to turn it into a full meal.
Add mushrooms for earthy depth.
Include snap peas for additional crunch.
Replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce for sweetness.
Add grated ginger for warmth.
Use purple cabbage for a colorful twist.
Top with crushed peanuts for texture.
Make it vegetarian by using mushroom-based oyster sauce.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime for brightness.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best fresh, but leftovers keep well for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended as cabbage may become watery.
Is it spicy?
Only mildly spicy if red pepper flakes are added.
Can I use olive oil?
Yes, but vegetable oil is more neutral.
How do I keep cabbage from becoming soggy?
Cook over high heat and avoid overcooking.
Can I add protein?
Yes, cook protein first, remove it, then return at the end.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is classic, but Napa cabbage also works well.
Can I reduce sodium?
Use low-sodium soy sauce.
What pairs well with this dish?
Steamed rice, grilled chicken, or tofu are great options.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce alternatives.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 150
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Values will vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Conclusion
Flavorful Cabbage Stir Fry proves that simple vegetables can deliver big flavor when cooked properly. With its mix of tender cabbage, crisp carrots, and savory sauces, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying. It is quick enough for busy weeknights and versatile enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand. Once you make it, you will likely find yourself turning to this easy stir fry whenever you want something fresh, fast, and full of flavor.