Cabbage Poriyal is a classic South Indian stir-fried vegetable dish that boasts simplicity and flavor in every bite. This humble yet delicious recipe transforms everyday cabbage into a mouthwatering side that complements rice and sambar perfectly.
With its mildly spiced, aromatic, and crunchy texture, cabbage poriyal offers both comfort and nutrition, making it a staple in Indian households. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and requires just a few pantry staples.
The beauty of cabbage poriyal lies in its versatility and quick cooking time. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in more greens into your diet without compromising on taste.
Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian main courses. In this blog post, I’ll share a detailed step-by-step recipe, tips for the best results, and some interesting variations to keep your meals exciting.
Let’s dive into the world of South Indian flavors with this delightful cabbage poriyal veg recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cabbage poriyal recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and taste. It is:
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh cabbage and spices.
- Flavorful: The tempering of mustard seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves infuses the dish with authentic South Indian aroma.
- Customizable: Easily adjustable for spice levels and can be modified to suit vegan or gluten-free diets.
- Budget-friendly: Uses everyday ingredients that are affordable and readily available.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage (about 500 grams), finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil (preferably coconut or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1-2 dried red chilies, broken
- 1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
- 1 teaspoon chana dal (split chickpeas)
- 8-10 curry leaves
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons grated fresh coconut (optional but recommended for authentic taste)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large non-stick or heavy-bottomed skillet/wok
- Wooden spatula or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Grater (for fresh coconut)
- Bowl for rinsing cabbage
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage: Rinse the cabbage thoroughly under running water. Drain and chop it finely into thin strips or small pieces. Set aside.
- Heat the oil: Place your skillet on medium heat and add the oil. Once hot, add the mustard seeds and wait for them to pop.
- Add dals and spices: Toss in the urad dal and chana dal. Stir and fry until they turn golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Add the dried red chilies, green chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for another 30 seconds to release their aromas.
- Add turmeric and cabbage: Sprinkle the turmeric powder over the tempering, then immediately add the chopped cabbage. Mix well to coat the cabbage with the turmeric and spices.
- Cook the cabbage: Stir occasionally and cook uncovered on medium heat for about 10-12 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender but still retains a slight crunch. Avoid overcooking to preserve the texture.
- Season with salt: Add salt to taste and mix well.
- Add coconut: If using fresh grated coconut, sprinkle it over the cooked cabbage and stir to combine. This step adds a lovely sweetness and texture.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves if desired. Serve warm as a side dish with rice or Indian breads.
Tips & Variations
Always use fresh cabbage for the best crunch and flavor. Avoid overcooking to keep the texture intact.
- Use frozen coconut: If fresh coconut is unavailable, frozen grated coconut works well too.
- Add mustard seeds and urad dal tempering separately: For a crunchier texture, you can temper the mustard seeds and dals in hot oil and pour it over the cooked cabbage instead of mixing everything directly.
- Include other vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or peas can be added for extra color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) during tempering for digestive benefits and flavor depth.
- Make it vegan and gluten-free: This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 90 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 12 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Vitamin C | 45% of Daily Value |
Iron | 6% of Daily Value |
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage poriyal is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Here are some serving ideas to try:
- Enjoy it alongside steaming hot Muthiya Kadhi or spicy sambar for an authentic South Indian meal.
- Serve it with plain basmati rice or lemon rice for a wholesome lunch.
- Pair with Indian breads like chapati or paratha for a light dinner option.
- Try it as part of a thali platter with dal, rasam, and pickles.
- For a fusion twist, add cabbage poriyal as a filling in wraps or sandwiches for a healthy crunch.
Conclusion
Cabbage poriyal is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delightful and healthy dish. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that are both comforting and vibrant.
The combination of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and fresh coconut gives the cabbage a unique South Indian flair that’s sure to please your palate.
Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a nutritious addition to your meal, cabbage poriyal fits the bill perfectly. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices and ingredients to suit your taste.
For those interested in exploring more recipes, you might want to check out the Horse Cough Syrup Recipe for natural home remedies, or try the hearty Lamb Tenderloin Recipes for a protein-packed main course.
For lighter fare, the Halibut Dip Recipe offers a refreshing seafood option.
Happy cooking and enjoy the taste of India right in your kitchen!
📖 Recipe Card: Cabbage Poriyal
Description: A simple and flavorful South Indian stir-fried cabbage dish tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves. It is a healthy vegetable side perfect with rice or chapati.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped cabbage
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon urad dal (split black gram)
- 1-2 dried red chilies
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1-2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh coconut
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds.
- When seeds splutter, add urad dal and dried red chilies; sauté until golden.
- Add curry leaves and chopped green chilies; sauté briefly.
- Add chopped cabbage, turmeric powder, and salt; mix well.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove lid and cook until moisture evaporates.
- Turn off heat and mix in grated coconut.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
Nutrition: Calories: 90 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 10 g
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