If you are looking for a quick, comforting, and vibrant dish, this Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe is an absolute gem to have in your kitchen repertoire. It brings together the crisp freshness of cabbage and the silky texture of scrambled eggs, all enhanced by a delicate balance of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its comforting taste but also in how effortlessly it comes together with humble, everyday ingredients. Whether you’re craving a light meal or a perfect side dish, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the crunch of fresh cabbage to the richness of eggs and the zing of rice vinegar, every element combines to create a dish that feels both homey and special.
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded: Provides the refreshing crunch and mild sweetness that is the base of this dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor): Adds the necessary fat and silkiness, with sesame oil bringing an aromatic depth.
- 3 large eggs, beaten: Offers a soft texture and protein boost, binding the flavors together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant, savory undertone that wakes up the palate.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Introduces saltiness and umami, elevating the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy contrast that keeps the dish lively.
- ½ teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity and enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Brings subtle heat and spice to round out the flavors.
- Salt to taste: Adjust for final seasoning and to enhance all the flavors.
- Optional garnishes (chopped green onions, sesame seeds, chili flakes): Add color, texture, and an additional flavor kick.
How to Make Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
The secret to a fantastic Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe starts with prepping your ingredients. Shred that fresh cabbage into thin, manageable strips that will cook evenly. Beat the eggs thoroughly in a small bowl, making them ready to scramble quickly once the pan heats up. This prep ensures a smooth cooking process and delicious results.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Cook the Eggs
Heat your wok or large skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of vegetable or sesame oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and gently scramble them until just cooked through, about 2 to 3 minutes. Removing them from the pan as soon as cooked prevents overcooking and preserves their tender texture that perfectly complements the cabbage.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Garlic and Cabbage
Use the same pan, adding the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and stir briskly for about 30 seconds, allowing its aromatic fragrance to fill your kitchen. Then add the shredded cabbage and keep stirring for 5 to 7 minutes. You want your cabbage tender yet with a hint of crispness—this contrast is what makes the dish so satisfying.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Now the magic happens. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sprinkle the sugar and black pepper. Mix everything well so the cabbage gets coated in these wonderful flavors. Cook for another couple of minutes to let the seasonings meld and deepen, creating a complex yet harmonious taste.
Step 5: Combine the Eggs and Cabbage
Return your fluffy scrambled eggs to the pan and fold them gently into the cabbage. Allow them to warm through for another 1 to 2 minutes, making sure all those delightful flavors integrate beautifully. This step gives the dish a lovely cohesion that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Step 6: Serve
Finish your Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe by garnishing with your choice of chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a pinch of chili flakes for some heat. Serve it hot, either as a stand-alone delight or as a vibrant side that brightens up any meal.
How to Serve Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds not only brings a pop of color but also adds layers of crunch and freshness. Chili flakes introduce a thrilling kick that wakes up the flavors even more. These small touches turn this simple dish into a feast for the eyes and palate.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a side with many types of meals. Serve it alongside steamed rice and grilled meats for a wholesome dinner, or pair it with noodles and tofu for a satisfying vegetarian spread. Its versatility means it can complement both humble weekday meals and special occasions.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra touch of elegance, try serving this stir-fry in mini cabbage cups as edible bowls or toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro for an aromatic twist. You can also turn it into a filling for wraps or spring rolls, making the dish not just tasty but fun to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers of your Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors might deepen as it sits, making for even tastier second-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an option, although the texture of cabbage may soften slightly upon thawing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, remove as much air as possible, and consume within 1 month for the best quality.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat to preserve its texture and avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Green cabbage is classic, but Napa or Savoy cabbage work beautifully too, offering slightly different textures and flavors that keep the dish interesting.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
The eggs are a key ingredient here, so to make it vegan, you’d need to substitute them—silken tofu scrambled with turmeric or chickpea flour “eggs” are tasty alternatives.
Can I add other vegetables to the Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe?
Definitely. Carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas add color and crunch. Just add them during the stir-fry stage according to their cooking times to keep the dish balanced.
What can I use instead of rice vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white vinegar diluted with a little sugar work as good substitutes, preserving the tangy brightness.
How do I prevent the cabbage from getting soggy?
Make sure to cook the cabbage over medium-high heat with continuous stirring. Avoid overcrowding the pan so it can stir-fry properly, maintaining that delightful crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe is a beautiful reminder that simple ingredients can create truly memorable meals. It’s quick, flavorful, and comforting—a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I hope you give it a try soon and let it become one of your favorite go-to recipes as it is for me!
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Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Stir-Fried Cabbage with Egg recipe is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish perfect for a light meal or side. Featuring tender cabbage stir-fried with scrambled eggs, garlic, and an umami-rich sauce of soy, rice vinegar, and spices, it delivers a delightful balance of textures and tastes in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Eggs
- 3 large eggs, beaten
Seasonings & Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Chili flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Shred the cabbage into thin strips. Beat the eggs in a small bowl and set aside for cooking.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or wok over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable or sesame oil. When hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble for 2-3 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Garlic and Cabbage: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Stir-fry the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shredded cabbage and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, cooking until tender but retaining slight crispness.
- Season the Dish: Pour in soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir thoroughly and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend flavors.
- Combine the Eggs and Cabbage: Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, mixing them well with the cabbage. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and well combined.
- Serve: Transfer to serving plates and garnish optionally with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, use sesame oil instead of vegetable oil.
- You can adjust the seasoning by adding more soy sauce or a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
- To keep the cabbage crunchy, avoid overcooking during stir-frying.
- Serve as a side or a light main dish alongside steamed rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
