Flavor Friday - Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy

A quick, nutrient-dense dish featuring crisp cabbage, fresh ginger, and savory soy sauce. Perfect as a light main course or a flavorful side dish!

Ingredients

• 1 small head of green or Napa cabbage, thinly sliced

• 1 medium carrot, julienned

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts (for garnish)

• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables

• Slice the cabbage into thin strips.

• Julienne the carrot and thinly slice the onion.

• Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

2. Heat the Pan

• Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

• Add sesame oil and swirl to coat the pan.

3. Stir-Fry the Aromatics

• Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Cook the Cabbage & Carrots

• Add the cabbage and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, tossing frequently until the cabbage is slightly softened but still crisp.

5. Add the Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey (or maple syrup).

• Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss well. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is absorbed.

6. Garnish & Serve

• Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.

• Garnish with chopped green onions and red pepper flakes if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy on its own as a light meal.

• Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a more filling dish.

• Pair with tofu, shrimp, or chicken for added protein.

Tips for Success

✔ Don’t overcook the cabbage – it should be slightly wilted but still have a crunch.

✔ Use a wok or large skillet for even cooking and proper stir-fry technique.

✔ For extra umami, add a dash of toasted sesame oil at the end.