Cabbage is a versatile, nutritious vegetable that plays a starring role in many Indian kitchens. From simple stir-fries to hearty curries, cabbage offers a wonderful canvas for the bold spices and flavors that define Indian cooking.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore Indian vegetarian cuisine, cabbage vegetable recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy healthy, flavorful meals that come together quickly and easily.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some beloved Indian-style cabbage recipes that you can whip up for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Packed with aromatic spices and wholesome ingredients, these dishes are perfect for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet without compromising on taste.
Plus, cabbage is budget-friendly and widely available, making it an excellent choice for everyday cooking.
Ready to discover the magic of cabbage in Indian cooking? Let’s dive into these delicious recipes that will surely become staples in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Indian cabbage vegetable recipes are loved for their simplicity, health benefits, and incredible flavor profiles. Cabbage is low in calories yet high in important nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making these recipes both nutritious and satisfying.
These dishes are perfect for busy weeknights since they require minimal preparation and cook quickly. The use of traditional Indian spices like mustard seeds, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala enhances the natural sweetness of cabbage while adding depth and warmth.
Whether you’re looking to try a tangy cabbage stir-fry or a comforting cabbage curry, these recipes cater to various tastes and dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage (about 4 cups shredded)
- 2 tablespoons oil (mustard oil or vegetable oil recommended)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for tanginess)
Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet or wok
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spatula or spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage: Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Rinse well under cold water and shred finely using a knife or food processor. Set aside.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Mustard oil is traditional and adds a pungent flavor, but vegetable oil works well too.
- Temper the spices: Once the oil is hot, add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds and 1 teaspoon cumin seeds. Let them sizzle and pop for about 30 seconds. Add the chopped green chili and grated ginger, sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Sauté the onions: Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Add the tomatoes and spices: Add the chopped tomatoes along with 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, and salt to taste. Cook until the tomatoes soften and oil begins to separate from the masala (spice mixture), about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the shredded cabbage: Mix the shredded cabbage into the skillet. Stir well to coat the cabbage in the spices. Cover the pan and cook on low to medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender but still retain some crunch.
- Finish with garam masala: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garam masala over the cooked cabbage. Stir to combine evenly and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish: Turn off the stove. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot.
Tips & Variations
“For a richer flavor, try adding a handful of freshly grated coconut or a teaspoon of cumin powder while cooking the cabbage.”
- Add potatoes: Dice 1-2 medium potatoes and cook them along with the cabbage for a heartier dish.
- Make it tangy: Add a teaspoon of amchur (dry mango powder) or a dash of tamarind paste to enhance the tanginess.
- Include peas or carrots: Stir in some green peas or grated carrots for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Try South Indian style: Temper mustard seeds, urad dal, and curry leaves in hot oil, then add cabbage and a pinch of hing (asafoetida) for a delicious variation.
- Spice level: Adjust chili according to your heat preference or substitute with paprika for milder flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 110 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Vitamin C | 55% of RDI |
Vitamin K | 70% of RDI |
Serving Suggestions
This Indian-style cabbage vegetable pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or flatbreads such as chapati, paratha, or naan. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside dal (lentil curry) or a cooling raita (yogurt dip).
It also works well as a side dish with other Indian favorites like Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore or a warm bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating. For something sweet to finish your meal, try pairing it with the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
Conclusion
Indian cabbage vegetable recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful vegetable that’s both affordable and easy to prepare. The blend of spices enhances the natural sweetness of cabbage while offering a comforting and satisfying dish suitable for any meal of the day.
Whether you opt for a simple stir-fry or a more elaborate curry, these recipes bring warmth and tradition to your table. With versatile spice combinations and endless variations, cabbage can be transformed into an exciting dish that even picky eaters will love.
Give these recipes a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors that Indian cooking has to offer.
📖 Recipe Card: Indian Cabbage Vegetable Curry
Description: A flavorful and easy-to-make Indian cabbage curry with aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage, chopped (about 500g)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard and cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions, green chilies, and ginger; sauté until onions turn golden.
- Add turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt; mix well.
- Add chopped cabbage and stir to coat with spices.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle garam masala and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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