Save to Pinterest A quick, vibrant vegetable stir-fry with tender cabbage, sweet peas, and savory garlic-soy flavor—perfect as a side or light main.
When I crave a speedy, plant-based dinner that everyone will enjoy, this cabbage stir-fry comes to the rescue again and again. My family loves the mix of sweet peas and umami sauce.
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
- Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- 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.
- Preheat the pan:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Aromatics:
- Add minced garlic (and ginger, if using) and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cabbage:
- Add sliced cabbage. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until it starts to wilt but remains crisp.
- Add peas:
- Add frozen peas and continue stir-frying for another 2–3 minutes until peas are heated through and cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Finish:
- Pour sauce over vegetables and toss well to coat. Cook for another minute.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions if desired.
Save to Pinterest 
Save to Pinterest This stir-fry is a hit for busy weeknights, and even picky eaters scoop up second helpings for the sweet peas and gingery sauce. It's a simple moment of togetherness at our table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cabbage stir-fry with steamed rice, noodles, or alongside grilled tofu or chicken for a complete meal.
Recipe Variations
Add shredded carrots, swap green cabbage for Napa cabbage, or toss in chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has approximately 105 calories, 6 g total fat, 12 g carbs, and 4 g protein.
Save to Pinterest 
Save to Pinterest This cabbage stir-fry makes veggies exciting and comes together so fast. It's a versatile dish you'll make again and again.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use tamari instead of soy sauce?
Yes, tamari is a great gluten-free alternative that maintains the savory flavor needed for this dish.
- → How do I keep the cabbage crisp?
Stir-fry cabbage over medium-high heat briefly, just until tender-crisp to retain a pleasant crunch.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely, shredded carrots or bell peppers complement the flavors and add extra color and nutrients.
- → What oil is best for stir-frying?
Use vegetable oils with high smoke points such as canola or sunflower oil for best results.
- → How can I add more heat to this dish?
Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil when stir-frying to introduce some spiciness.