Save Hot and Sour Cabbage is a vibrant Chinese-inspired stir-fry featuring crisp cabbage in a tangy, spicy sauce. It is perfect for waking up any meal with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch.
Save This dish is an excellent example of how simple ingredients like green cabbage and carrots can be transformed into a high-impact side dish. The key is the quick stir-fry method which preserves the vegetables' texture while coating them in a glossy, savory glaze.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 medium head green cabbage (about 800 g), cored and thinly sliced; 1 medium carrot, julienned; 3 scallions, sliced diagonally; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced.
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon chili paste or chili garlic sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil.
- Seasonings & Oil: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste).
- Garnish (optional): 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds; Additional sliced scallions.
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Step 2: Heat the Pan
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
- Add garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4: Stir-fry Vegetables
- Add sliced cabbage and carrot. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are just beginning to wilt but remain crisp.
- Step 5: Add Sauce
- Pour in the prepared sauce and toss to coat evenly. Stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Step 6: Season
- Add black pepper, salt, and scallions. Stir well and cook for 1 more minute.
- Step 7: Serve
- Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and extra scallions, if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra heat, add more chili paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes. It is crucial to use a large wok or skillet to ensure the cabbage sears properly rather than steaming in its own moisture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can swap green cabbage for Napa cabbage for a milder flavor. For additional texture and variety, consider adding sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the stir-fry.
Serviervorschläge
This Hot and Sour Cabbage pairs exceptionally well with steamed rice or as a vibrant side dish to grilled meats.
Save With its satisfying crunch and bold profile, this Hot and Sour Cabbage is sure to become a staple in your weeknight rotation. It's a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy fresh vegetables.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use Napa cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes, Napa cabbage works wonderfully and provides a milder, more delicate flavor. It also cooks slightly faster, so reduce stir-fry time by 1-2 minutes to maintain its tender-crisp texture.
- → How do I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of chili paste or add red pepper flakes to taste. You can also include fresh sliced chili peppers during the stir-frying process for extra heat and flavor.
- → What can I serve with hot and sour cabbage?
This dish pairs excellently with steamed jasmine or brown rice, grilled chicken, tofu, or fish. It also complements noodle dishes and makes a great side for Asian-inspired meal bowls.
- → How do I keep the cabbage crispy?
Cook over high heat and avoid overcrowding the wok. Stir-fry in batches if necessary, and don't overcook. The cabbage should be tender-crisp, not soft or mushy, which takes only 5-7 minutes total cooking time.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While best served fresh, you can prep ingredients ahead by slicing vegetables and mixing the sauce. Store separately in the refrigerator. The dish can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated, though the cabbage will soften slightly.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce. Always verify that your chili paste and other condiments are also gluten-free by checking labels.