Cabbage Fried Rice Veg Recipes of India Made Easy

Cabbage fried rice is a delightful and nutritious dish popular across various regions in India, loved for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. This vegetarian recipe combines the crunch of fresh cabbage with fragrant basmati rice, tempered with traditional Indian spices and fresh herbs.

It’s a quick meal perfect for busy weekdays or a light dinner that satisfies your taste buds without weighing you down. Using readily available vegetables and pantry staples, this dish offers a wholesome experience, blending subtle heat, tangy notes, and savory goodness in every bite.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, this Indian-style cabbage fried rice recipe is easy to master and endlessly adaptable. It’s a fantastic way to include more vegetables in your diet while enjoying a comforting, flavorful meal.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian sides and chutneys. Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Indian veg recipes and learn how to create this delicious cabbage fried rice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cabbage fried rice recipe is a perfect fusion of taste, texture, and nutrition. It’s light yet filling, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal.

You’ll appreciate the quick cooking time, which means you can have a healthy dinner ready in under 30 minutes. The use of Indian spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and green chilies adds a unique depth of flavor that transforms a simple fried rice into a delightful culinary experience.

This recipe is highly versatile — you can easily swap or add vegetables according to your preference or what’s in season. It’s also a great way to use leftover rice, making it economical and reducing food waste.

For those on a vegetarian or vegan diet, this dish is completely plant-based and gluten-free. If you enjoy dishes like this, you might also want to explore other flavorful options such as Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked basmati rice (preferably a day old for best texture)
• 2 cups finely shredded cabbage
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/4 cup grated carrot (optional for color and sweetness)
• 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard oil recommended)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a tangy finish)

Equipment

• Large non-stick or cast iron skillet/wok
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving bowl or plate

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Ensure your rice is cooked and cooled, preferably refrigerated overnight. Shred the cabbage finely, chop the onion and green chilies, and grate the carrot if using.
2. Heat oil in the skillet: Set your stove to medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Once hot, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter, releasing their aroma.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onions and green chilies to the pan. Cook until the onions turn translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage and carrot: Stir well and cook for 6-8 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften but remain slightly crunchy. Sprinkle salt to help the cabbage release moisture.
5. Spice it up: Add turmeric powder and garam masala. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
6. Incorporate the rice: Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking any clumps gently. Mix thoroughly to combine the rice with the cabbage and spices. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
7. Finish with fresh flavors: Turn off the heat and stir in freshly chopped coriander leaves and lemon juice if using. This adds brightness and freshness to the dish.
8. Serve hot: Transfer the cabbage fried rice to a serving bowl or plate. It’s ready to enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“Using day-old rice or well-cooled rice is key to achieving the perfect texture — fluffy and separate grains without mushiness.”

• For added protein, toss in some cooked green peas, diced tofu, or paneer cubes during the vegetable sauté step.
• Try adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, beans, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Adjust the heat by varying the amount of green chilies or adding a pinch of red chili powder.
• Use mustard oil for a more authentic Indian flavor, or opt for vegetable or sunflower oil for a milder taste.
• For a vegan twist with a creamy touch, drizzle some Vegan Bechamel Sauce on the side or mix in gently before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cabbage fried rice is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of Indian accompaniments. Serve it alongside a cooling cucumber raita or a tangy tomato chutney for a burst of complementary flavors.

For a more substantial meal, pair the fried rice with a simple dal (lentil soup) or some crispy vegetable pakoras. If you’re in the mood for more rice-based vegetarian dishes, check out our Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore for more inspiration.

To add a crunchy texture, sprinkle some roasted peanuts or cashews on top just before serving. A wedge of lime on the side adds a refreshing zing that brightens the entire meal.

Conclusion

Cabbage fried rice is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and nutritious Indian vegetarian dish. Its quick preparation, balanced flavors, and wholesome ingredients make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting meal.

The combination of fragrant spices and fresh vegetables provides not only taste but also essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious eaters.

By following this recipe, you can easily enjoy a restaurant-style dish from the comfort of your home, with the freedom to adjust ingredients to suit your palate. Don’t forget to explore other related recipes like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert or Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to complement your meals.

Happy cooking and savor every bite of this delightful cabbage fried rice!

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