Awesome Vegan Cabbage Recipes for Delicious Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Cabbage is one of the most versatile and nutrient-packed vegetables you can add to your vegan cooking repertoire. Whether you prefer it raw, sautéed, roasted, or fermented, cabbage lends a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness to a variety of dishes.

In this post, we dive into awesome vegan cabbage recipes that will excite your taste buds while keeping your meals wholesome and satisfying. From hearty stir-fries to refreshing slaws and comforting soups, these recipes showcase how cabbage can be transformed into star dishes that are both budget-friendly and easy to prepare.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, these recipes highlight simple ingredients and bold flavors. If you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based meals or just want to enjoy cabbage in new and exciting ways, you’re in the right place.

Let’s explore why cabbage deserves a permanent spot on your menu and how you can cook it deliciously vegan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Beyond its health benefits, it offers incredible versatility in the kitchen.

These vegan recipes make cabbage the star by enhancing its natural flavors with spices, herbs, and complementary vegetables.

Whether you’re craving something crunchy like a cabbage slaw or a warm, comforting braised cabbage, these recipes are designed to be easy, quick, and satisfying. Plus, cabbage is affordable and widely available year-round, making it an accessible ingredient for everyone.

Once you try these dishes, you’ll discover just how delicious and adaptable cabbage can be in your vegan cooking journey.

Ingredients

  • Green cabbage – 1 medium head (about 1.5 pounds)
  • Red cabbage – 1 small head (optional, for color and variety)
  • Carrots – 2 medium, shredded or julienned
  • Garlic cloves – 3, minced
  • Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
  • Soy sauce or tamari – 3 tablespoons
  • Olive oil or sesame oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Apple cider vinegar – 2 tablespoons
  • Maple syrup – 1 tablespoon
  • Chili flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional for heat)
  • Green onions – 3, sliced thin
  • Salt and pepper – to taste
  • Toasted sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon (for garnish)
  • Vegetable broth – 1 cup (for braised cabbage)

Equipment

  • Large sharp knife and cutting board
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Grater (for ginger and carrots)
  • Colander or salad spinner (for washing cabbage)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your cabbage: Remove the outer leaves, rinse the cabbage heads under cold water, and pat dry. Slice the green and red cabbages thinly to ensure they cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
  2. Shred the carrots using a grater or julienne them into thin strips. This adds sweetness and color to your dish.
  3. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add the cabbage and carrots to the skillet. Toss gently to coat with the garlic-ginger oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften but still retains some crunch.
  5. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and chili flakes if using. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and stir well to combine.
  6. Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
  8. For a braised cabbage variation: Instead of sautéing, melt the oil in a deep pan, add the cabbage and carrots, then pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is tender and flavorful.

Tips & Variations

Try adding diced tofu or tempeh for extra protein and texture.

Experiment with spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or curry powder to give your cabbage dishes a global twist.

Make a crunchy vegan cabbage slaw by tossing shredded cabbage with vegan mayo, lemon juice, and a pinch of sugar.

For a fermented option, try making your own vegan sauerkraut by fermenting shredded cabbage with salt for several days. It’s probiotic-rich and adds a tangy punch to sandwiches and salads.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 cup cooked)
Calories 45 kcal
Protein 2 grams
Carbohydrates 10 grams
Fiber 4 grams
Fat 2 grams
Vitamin C 54 mg (90% DV)
Vitamin K 81 mcg (68% DV)

Serving Suggestions

This versatile vegan cabbage dish pairs beautifully with grain bowls, steamed rice, or noodles. Serve it alongside your favorite plant-based protein like grilled tofu or tempeh for a balanced meal.

You can also enjoy it as a vibrant side with dishes such as a hearty lentil stew or vegan chili. For a lighter option, toss it into a wrap with hummus and roasted veggies.

If you’re interested in expanding your vegan recipe collection, check out other delicious options like the Half Runner Beans Recipe, or for a comforting dessert, try the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.

Additional Awesome Vegan Cabbage Recipes

Vegan Cabbage Stir-Fry with Tofu

  • Use firm tofu, pressed and cubed.
  • Stir-fry with shredded cabbage, bell peppers, and snap peas.
  • Toss with a sauce made from soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, and fresh lime juice.
  • Serve over steamed jasmine rice or noodles.

Spicy Vegan Kimchi

  • Traditional Korean fermented cabbage made vegan by skipping fish sauce.
  • Use Korean chili powder, garlic, ginger, and green onions for flavor.
  • Ferment for 5-7 days at room temperature for the best tangy taste.
  • Perfect as a condiment or side dish.

Creamy Vegan Cabbage Soup

  • Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and cabbage until soft.
  • Add vegetable broth and simmer until all vegetables are tender.
  • Blend part of the soup for a creamy texture without cream.
  • Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.

For more inspiration on vegan baking and treats to complement your cabbage dishes, you might enjoy the Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe or the Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe to elevate your stir-fries.

Conclusion

Cabbage is truly a gem in vegan cooking, offering endless possibilities from crunchy salads to hearty mains. These awesome vegan cabbage recipes prove that this humble vegetable can shine with just a few simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation.

By incorporating cabbage into your meals, you not only boost your nutrient intake but also enjoy flavorful, satisfying dishes that are kind to your wallet and the planet. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different textures, spices, and cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy cabbage.

We hope these recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and explore more plant-based meals. For more delicious vegan recipes and cooking tips, be sure to browse the other tasty options on our site!

📖 Recipe Card: Awesome Vegan Cabbage Stir-Fry

Description: A quick and flavorful vegan cabbage stir-fry packed with fresh veggies and savory spices. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 medium green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large carrot, julienned
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add shredded cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper; stir-fry for 7-8 minutes.
  4. Mix in soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes.
  5. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with green onions, and serve.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 20 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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