Cabbage is one of those wonderfully versatile vegetables that often gets overlooked in vegetarian cooking. Yet, it is incredibly nutritious, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare in countless delicious ways.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your weekly menu, cabbage offers a wonderful canvas for flavors—from crunchy salads to warm, comforting sautés.
In this post, we’re diving into easy vegetarian cabbage recipes that anyone can whip up quickly, with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. These dishes are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something wholesome yet fuss-free.
Plus, cabbage’s mild flavor pairs beautifully with spices, herbs, and other vegetables, making it a great companion for many cuisines. Let’s explore some fantastic ways to make cabbage the star of your next meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Vegetarian cabbage recipes are a delightful way to enjoy a nutrient-packed meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Cabbage is low in calories yet rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, supporting digestion and overall health.
Its versatility means you can prepare it raw, steamed, sautéed, or baked, fitting into various flavor profiles and cooking styles.
These recipes are easy to customize to your taste and dietary preferences, whether you want something light and fresh or hearty and warming. They’re also budget-friendly and use common pantry staples, making cabbage a fantastic choice for everyday cooking.
Plus, if you love experimenting with vegetables, cabbage can be a fantastic ingredient in fusion dishes, adding crunch and subtle sweetness.
These recipes are perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, and if you enjoy exploring plant-based meals, be sure to check out some of my other favorites like Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals and Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Green cabbage | 1 medium head (about 2 lbs) | Shredded or chopped |
| Carrot | 2 medium | Julienned or grated |
| Onion | 1 large | Thinly sliced |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | Or any vegetable oil |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | For umami flavor |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tbsp | Adds brightness |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances flavors |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tbsp | Optional, for garnish |
| Fresh cilantro or parsley | ¼ cup chopped | Optional, for freshness |
Equipment
- Large cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Grater or julienne peeler (optional for carrots)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Rinse the green cabbage under cold water, then remove the core. Shred or chop the cabbage into thin strips. Peel and julienne or grate the carrots, slice the onion thinly, and mince the garlic cloves.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to warm but not smoke.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the hot oil. Stir frequently for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant but not browned.
- Add the carrots and cabbage: Toss in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens but still retains a bit of crunch.
- Season the dish: Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. If using, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the dish for a fresh, nutty finish.
- Serve warm: Transfer to plates or bowls. This cabbage stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even inside a wrap. For a creative twist, try pairing it with the Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious for a fusion meal.
Tips & Variations
“To keep cabbage crispier in salads, salt it lightly and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing and draining.”
Try these ideas to customize your cabbage recipes:
- Add spices: Incorporate cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika for a warm, earthy flavor.
- Use different cabbages: Try red cabbage for color or napa cabbage for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Include other veggies: Throw in bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
- Make it a one-pot meal: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas for protein and make it a hearty main dish.
- Try fermented flavors: Stir in a spoonful of kimchi or sauerkraut for tang and probiotics.
For more ideas on easy vegetarian meals, you might enjoy exploring the Vegan Casserole Recipes: Easy for quick weeknight dinner or the Vegan Soul Food Recipe Book: Delicious Plant-Based Meal for hearty comfort food inspiration.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 4 g (mostly from olive oil) |
| Vitamin C | 55% DV |
| Vitamin K | 60% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary with ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions
This vegetarian cabbage stir-fry can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or as a side dish to complement various cuisines. Here are some serving ideas:
- Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a simple, filling dinner.
- Use as a filling for wraps or tacos along with avocado and salsa.
- Pair with lentil or chickpea dishes for a balanced vegetarian plate.
- Top with crushed peanuts and a squeeze of lime for a Thai-inspired twist.
- Combine with noodles and a drizzle of sesame oil for a comforting Asian meal.
For more creative vegetarian ideas, check out the Vegetarian Recipes for Cinco de Mayo: Festive & Easy Idea or the Vegan Halloween Dessert Recipes That Will Wow Your Guests for sweet treats after your meal.
Conclusion
Cabbage is an unsung hero in vegetarian cooking—affordable, nutritious, and incredibly adaptable. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create delicious cabbage dishes that are perfect for any occasion.
From stir-fries to salads, cabbage adds wonderful texture and flavor to your meals while supporting a healthy diet.
These recipes not only showcase cabbage’s versatility but also encourage you to experiment with flavors and ingredients you love. Whether you’re new to vegetarian cooking or looking for quick dinner ideas, cabbage recipes are a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
Don’t forget to explore other amazing vegetarian recipes on this site, like the Recipe Vegetarian Chopped Liver Made Easy and Delicious for more plant-based inspiration.
📖 Recipe Card: Easy Vegetarian Cabbage Stir-Fry
Description: A quick and tasty vegetarian cabbage stir-fry that's perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and simple seasonings.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add carrot and bell pepper; cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in shredded cabbage and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Cook for another 2 minutes until cabbage is tender but still crisp.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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