Embracing simple yet flavorful vegetarian dishes is a joy, especially when they revolve around humble ingredients like cabbage and peas. These two vegetables, when combined, create a nourishing and versatile meal that’s perfect for any season.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals into your routine, cabbage and peas offer a delightful combination of texture, taste, and nutrition.
In this post, we’ll explore multiple delicious cabbage and peas vegetarian recipes that are easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your palate. From a hearty sauté to a comforting stew, these recipes are perfect for quick weeknight dinners or leisurely weekend cooking.
Plus, they’re budget-friendly and packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Let’s dive into why these recipes will become your new favorites!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cabbage and peas come together to create dishes that are not only healthy but also incredibly tasty. The natural sweetness of peas complements the mild, slightly peppery taste of cabbage, resulting in a balanced flavor profile.
These recipes are:
- Easy to make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make cooking a breeze.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins C and K from cabbage, and protein from peas.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, main course, or part of a larger meal.
- Budget-friendly: Uses common pantry staples and fresh produce.
- Vegetarian and vegan friendly: No animal products needed.
These recipes offer a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome, comforting food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ cup vegetable broth or water
Equipment
- Large frying pan or skillet
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Colander (if using fresh peas)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh peas, shell them and rinse under cold water.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add onion and garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and soft.
- Incorporate spices: Sprinkle in turmeric, red chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic.
- Add cabbage: Toss the chopped cabbage into the pan. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly.
- Pour liquid: Add the vegetable broth or water, cover the skillet, and let the cabbage steam for 7-10 minutes until tender but still with a slight crunch.
- Mix in peas: Uncover the pan, add the peas, and cook uncovered for another 3-5 minutes until the peas are tender and heated through.
- Finish with lemon and cilantro: Remove from heat. Drizzle lemon juice over the dish and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve warm: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy your healthy, vibrant cabbage and peas sauté.
Tips & Variations
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of mustard seeds along with the cumin seeds during the initial sauté. This adds a subtle nuttiness that enhances the dish.
If you want to switch things up, here are some tasty variations:
- Spicy cabbage and peas curry: Add 1 teaspoon of garam masala and a diced tomato along with the spices. Simmer until the tomato breaks down.
- Asian-inspired stir-fry: Use soy sauce and sesame oil instead of olive oil, add grated ginger, and top with toasted sesame seeds.
- Hearty cabbage and peas stew: Add diced potatoes and carrots, increase broth to 2 cups, and simmer until all vegetables are tender for a comforting stew.
- Add grains: Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal | 8% |
Protein | 6 g | 12% |
Carbohydrates | 20 g | 7% |
Dietary Fiber | 7 g | 28% |
Fat | 5 g | 7% |
Vitamin C | 60 mg | 67% |
Vitamin K | 80 mcg | 67% |
Iron | 2 mg | 11% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Serving Suggestions
This cabbage and peas dish is wonderfully adaptable. Serve it as a side to your favorite grains or proteins, or enjoy it as a light main course.
Here are some ideas to pair with it:
- Warm flatbreads or crusty bread for scooping
- Steamed basmati or jasmine rice for an Asian twist
- Alongside a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Complemented with a dollop of yogurt or vegan sour cream
- Pair with another vegetarian favorite like Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for a complete meal
More Delicious Cabbage and Peas Vegetarian Recipes
Spiced Cabbage and Peas Stir-Fry
This recipe adds bold Indian spices like mustard seeds, coriander, and garam masala to the classic sauté, creating a fragrant and colorful dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Creamy Cabbage and Peas Curry
Rich coconut milk and curry spices transform cabbage and peas into a hearty, creamy curry that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or naan bread.
Cabbage and Peas Soup
A light, soothing soup featuring shredded cabbage, peas, vegetable broth, and fresh herbs. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something comforting yet light.
Conclusion
Cabbage and peas are a match made in vegetarian heaven—affordable, nutritious, and delicious. Whether you prefer a quick sauté, a creamy curry, or a warming soup, these recipes showcase the versatility of these ingredients.
Their vibrant flavors and health benefits make them a wonderful addition to any meal plan. With a few simple spices and pantry staples, you can whip up a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs, spices, and cooking methods to find your perfect cabbage and peas combination. And if you enjoyed this post, check out some other fantastic recipes like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the refreshing Huckleberry Margarita Recipe for your next culinary adventure!
📖 Recipe Card: Cabbage and Peas Stir-Fry
Description: A simple and nutritious vegetarian dish featuring tender cabbage and green peas sautéed with spices. Perfect as a side or light main course.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in turmeric and chili powder.
- Add chopped cabbage and peas; mix well.
- Pour in water, cover, and cook for 10 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Season with salt and stir well.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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