Cabbage Sabzi is a beloved staple in Indian kitchens, cherished for its simplicity, nutrition, and vibrant flavors. This humble vegetable dish transforms everyday cabbage into a delightful, comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with roti, paratha, or even steamed rice.
Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a perfect balance of spices and textures that highlight the versatility of cabbage in Indian cuisine.
Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, cabbage sabzi is not only delicious but also promotes good health. Its quick cooking time and minimal ingredients make it a go-to option for busy weeknights or a wholesome lunch box addition.
In this blog, we’ll explore multiple authentic Indian cabbage sabzi recipes that bring out different regional twists, from North Indian dry stir-fries to South Indian coconut-infused versions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cabbage Sabzi is a fantastic dish for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
The cooking process is quick, which means you can have a healthy meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Second, it’s highly adaptable. Whether you prefer your sabzi dry or with a bit of gravy, spicy or mild, there’s a version suited for your palate.
Plus, cabbage is budget-friendly and widely available year-round, making it a practical choice for everyday cooking.
Finally, this dish is packed with nutrition but low in calories, making it ideal for health-conscious individuals. The balance of spices not only enhances taste but also aids digestion, a hallmark of Indian cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized cabbage (about 500 grams), finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable, mustard, or ghee)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Bowl for chopping vegetables
- Serving dish
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage: Rinse the cabbage thoroughly under running water. Shake off excess water and finely chop the cabbage into thin strips.
- Heat oil in the pan: Place your skillet on medium heat and add the oil. When the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and wait until they start to pop.
- Add cumin seeds and aromatics: Stir in the cumin seeds, chopped green chilies, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sauté onions: Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the masala.
- Add the cabbage: Mix in the chopped cabbage thoroughly with the masala. Cover and cook on low to medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check doneness: The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight crunch. Adjust salt and spice levels if needed.
- Finish with lemon juice and garnish: Turn off the heat and drizzle lemon juice over the sabzi. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy with warm rotis, parathas, or rice.
Tips & Variations
For a nuttier flavor, try tempering the sabzi with a pinch of asafoetida (hing) along with the mustard seeds.
Adding a handful of grated coconut or a sprinkle of garam masala can elevate the dish with unique South Indian or North Indian flair, respectively.
To make a dry stir-fry, cook the cabbage uncovered to evaporate excess moisture. For a softer, gravy-like texture, add a splash of water or tomato puree and cook covered.
You can also add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or potatoes to make a mixed vegetable sabzi. For a protein boost, toss in cooked chickpeas or paneer cubes.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Vitamin C | 55% of daily value |
| Iron | 6% of daily value |
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage sabzi pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian breads such as rotis, chapatis, or parathas. For a fuller meal, serve it alongside dal (lentil curry) and plain basmati rice or jeera rice.
It also works well as a side dish with tandoori chicken or paneer tikka. For a light meal, enjoy it with a dollop of yogurt or raita to balance the spices.
Looking for more wholesome vegetable recipes? Check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or add a unique twist with our Cabbage Pizza Crust Recipe.
Conclusion
Cabbage sabzi is a versatile and nutritious dish that perfectly embodies the essence of Indian home cooking—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and comforting warmth. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy cabbage while incorporating the rich spice palette of Indian cuisine.
With minimal prep and quick cooking times, cabbage sabzi fits seamlessly into any busy schedule. Experiment with the variations and tips shared here to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
Don’t forget to explore more recipes like our Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the flavorful Lamb Tenderloin Recipes to expand your culinary repertoire.
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious cabbage sabzi!
📖 Recipe Card: Cabbage Sabzi
Description: A simple and flavorful Indian cabbage stir-fry seasoned with spices. Perfect as a side dish for any meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage, shredded (about 500g)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 green chili, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add mustard and cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped green chili and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shredded cabbage and mix well.
- Sprinkle turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt; stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove lid and cook for another 3-5 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
- Turn off heat and add lemon juice and fresh coriander leaves.
- Mix well and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 12 g
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