Cabbage Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a dish that brings vibrant crunch, comfort, and irresistible flavor all together in one pan, this cabbage stir fry is about to become your newest weeknight hero. Bursting with the freshness of green cabbage and carrots, aromatic ginger and garlic, and hearty ramen noodles all swirled in a luscious stir fry sauce, it’s equal parts satisfying and nourishing. The sweet chili sauce just takes it over the top! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to stir fries, this quick and colorful dinner is one you’ll feel good about making and sharing again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what makes this Cabbage Stir Fry shine: every ingredient is simple, accessible, and chosen with intention. Their combined flavors and textures turn an ordinary pile of veggies into a crave-worthy bowl that’s both hearty and fresh.

• Ramen noodles (9 oz): Ditch the flavor packets and use just the noodles for chew and heartiness that soak up every bit of sauce.
• Green cabbage (5 cups, thinly sliced): The star of this dish, adding sweetness, crunch, and lots of color.
• Fresh ginger (1/4 cup, minced): Infuses the stir fry with its zingy warmth and unmistakable fragrance.
• Garlic (6 cloves, minced): That deep savory note you can’t resist in any stir fry—use fresh for the brightest punch.
• Carrots (1 cup, grated): A subtle sweetness and pop of color that balances the cabbage beautifully.
• Yellow onion (1 large, diced): Builds layers of flavor as it softens and caramelizes in the pan.
• Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Use toasted sesame oil for incredible aroma and nuttiness.
• Stir fry sauce (1 batch): Homemade is best—it binds everything together and adds a savory-sweet kick.
• Sweet chili sauce (for topping): Don’t skip this! The sweet and spicy finish is the perfect contrast to tender veggies.
• Soy sauce (optional, to taste): Add for extra umami if you like things a bit more savory.

How to Make Cabbage Stir Fry

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

Start by giving all your veggies some love—this is what sets up your Cabbage Stir Fry for flavor success! Remove the core from your cabbage and slice it into thin shreds. Finely dice the onion, mince that fragrant garlic and ginger, and grab a box grater for the carrots. Getting everything prepped ahead makes stir frying feel effortless.

Step 2: Sauté Everything Together

Grab your biggest skillet or a roomy wok for this step. Add the sliced cabbage, ginger, garlic, carrots, onion, and sesame oil right into the pan all at once. Stir these fragrant veggies over medium-high heat for 15 to 20 minutes. The cabbage will wilt and sweeten, the onions will soften, and your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing.

Step 3: Cook the Ramen Noodles

While your veggies are transforming in the skillet, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to the package instructions (minus those salty flavor packets). Drain the noodles well—they’ll finish absorbing flavor in the stir fry.

Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce

When your cabbage mixture is tender and just a little bit caramelized, add the cooked ramen noodles and pour in your homemade stir fry sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so the noodles are glossy and every strand is coated in savory-sweet goodness. Let it all cook together for 3 to 5 minutes so the flavors can really mingle.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once combined, taste and add a splash of soy sauce if you like things more savory. Serve the Cabbage Stir Fry right away, with a generous drizzle of sweet chili sauce over the top for that pop of spicy-sweet contrast that ties the whole dish together.

How to Serve Cabbage Stir Fry

Garnishes

You can have endless fun with garnishes for your cabbage stir fry. A handful of chopped green onions brings freshness and color, while a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a gentle crunch. If you love a bit of heat, a scattering of thinly sliced red chilies (or an extra dollop of sweet chili sauce) is never out of place.

Side Dishes

This dish is beautifully satisfying all by itself, but if you want to create a full meal, it pairs wonderfully with steamed edamame, crispy tofu, or a simple Asian-inspired cucumber salad. Steamed dumplings or spring rolls also make for a delicious sidekick!

Creative Ways to Present

Try scooping Cabbage Stir Fry into lettuce cups for a fun, casual, Asian-inspired appetizer. Or, serve it in colorful bowls with julienned fresh vegetables on top for an extra crunch. If you’re serving a crowd, pile it high on a large platter and let everyone dig in family-style—watch it disappear!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cabbage Stir Fry keeps surprisingly well! Cool everything to room temperature, then transfer to a sealed container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making your next lunch or dinner even more delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze Cabbage Stir Fry for up to 1 month, though the noodles may soften a bit after thawing. Portion into airtight containers, removing as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and enjoy a fuss-free meal any time.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of water or extra stir fry sauce to keep things from drying out. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, tossing frequently until hot. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Absolutely! While ramen noodles give a lovely chewy texture, you can swap them for rice noodles, udon, soba, or even spaghetti in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for whatever noodle you choose.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, as long as both your noodles and stir fry sauce are plant-based, this Cabbage Stir Fry is completely vegan. Double-check the ingredients on your noodles and sauces to ensure there’s no sneaky animal products.

What protein could I add?

To make it more filling, toss in crispy tofu cubes, edamame, or your favorite plant-based protein. For non-vegans, some thinly sliced chicken or shrimp also work beautifully—just stir fry with the veggies before adding the noodles.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Very easy! Just use gluten-free ramen or rice noodles, and be sure your stir fry sauce and soy sauce are certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe stays exactly the same, so everyone can enjoy.

Can I prep the vegetables ahead?

Definitely! Slice, dice, and mince your veggies the night before and store them in separate containers in the fridge. When it’s time to cook, your Cabbage Stir Fry will come together even faster on a busy weeknight.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be surprised when this Cabbage Stir Fry earns a regular spot in your dinner rotation. It’s bright, flavorful, and so rewarding to make at home—plus, there are endless ways to make it your own. Grab your veggies and noodles and give this stir fry a try tonight; I can’t wait for you to fall in love with it just like I did!

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