Cabbage, a staple ingredient in many Asian cuisines, is often overlooked in favor of more exotic vegetables. However, this humble cruciferous vegetable has a wealth of flavors and textures waiting to be explored. In Chinese cuisine, cabbage plays a starring role in countless dishes, from hearty stews to quick stir-fries. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouthwatering Chinese-style cabbage recipes that will inspire your cooking and satisfy your taste buds.
Stir-Fried Chinese Cabbage with Garlic
This simple and flavorful recipe brings together the crunch of Chinese cabbage and the pungency of garlic, making for a delicious and healthy side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon of grated ginger for added depth
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the sliced Chinese cabbage and continue to stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Pork Dumplings
A classic Chinese dish, these dumplings are a staple of many Asian cuisines. This recipe combines the freshness of cabbage with the savory flavor of pork to create a mouthwatering snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, finely chopped
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wonton wrappers (about 20-24)
– Optional: scallions, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, ground pork, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork-cabbage mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook the dumplings in boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sichuan Cabbage Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional stir-frying, featuring crisp cabbage and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or added to noodles or rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add cabbage and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Shrimp Soup
This refreshing soup is a staple in many Chinese households, perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With its harmonious balance of sweet shrimp, crunchy cabbage, and savory broth, you’ll be hooked from the first sip.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups Chinese cabbage (bok choy), chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage and broth; bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Braised Chinese Cabbage with Mushrooms
Braised Chinese Cabbage with Mushrooms: A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of Chinese cabbage with the earthiness of mushrooms, all slow-cooked in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage and stir to combine. Cook until the cabbage is slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Tofu Hot Pot
This comforting hot pot recipe combines tender tofu, crunchy Chinese cabbage, and savory broth for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium Chinese cabbage, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Optional: noodles, mushrooms, and other hot pot ingredients of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, combine broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and white pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and Chinese cabbage to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until cabbage is tender-crisp.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and noodles (if using). Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chinese Cabbage Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with the tanginess of a sweet and sour dressing, perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Chinese cabbage and sugar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the cabbage to soften and absorb the sweetness.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, soy sauce, and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the grated ginger and salt to taste.
4. Pour the sweet and sour dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until the cabbage is evenly coated.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
Chinese Cabbage and Chicken Stir-Fry
This classic stir-fry combines tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and savory flavors, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Chinese cabbage (bok choy), chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cabbage, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Chinese Cabbage Rolls with Minced Pork
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of many Asian cuisines, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. With its tender cabbage leaves wrapped around savory pork filling, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of Chinese cabbage
– 1/2 pound minced pork
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the cabbage leaves into squares, removing the thick center stem.
2. In a bowl, mix together the minced pork, chopped scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Place a spoonful of the pork mixture onto each cabbage square, leaving a 1-inch border around the filling.
4. Fold the cabbage over the filling to form a tight roll, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Steam the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the pork is cooked through.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Egg Drop Soup
A comforting and savory soup that combines the sweetness of cabbage with the richness of eggs, perfect for a chilly day or as a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Chinese cabbage (bok choy), chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, and cabbage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1 tablespoon of the hot soup broth to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the pot, stirring gently to create thin, egg-drop-like strands.
4. Add soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fermented Chinese Cabbage Kimchi
Kimchi, a staple in Korean cuisine, has gained popularity worldwide for its spicy and sour flavor profile. This fermented Chinese cabbage kimchi recipe is a twist on the classic, using napa cabbage as the base ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs napa cabbage, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons coarse salt
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and coarse salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage for 5 minutes.
2. Rinse the cabbage with cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a blender or food processor, blend chili flakes, garlic, fish sauce, rice vinegar, water, and ginger until smooth.
4. Combine the blended mixture with the cabbage. Pack the kimchi into a jar, leaving 1 inch headspace. Seal the jar tightly.
5. Ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 3-5 days or refrigerate for 2-3 weeks.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a fermented recipe.
Chinese Cabbage and Beef Noodle Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines tender beef, crunchy Chinese cabbage, and springy noodles. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or shank, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups Chinese cabbage (Napa or bok choy), thinly sliced
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add the garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the Chinese cabbage, beef broth, soy sauce, and cooked beef back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Scallion Pancakes
These savory pancakes are a staple in Northern Chinese cuisine, perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Made with shredded cabbage, scallions, and a hint of ginger, they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, shredded
– 1/2 cup scallions, chopped
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, scallions, cornstarch, flour, salt, and ginger. Mix well.
2. Gradually add in water to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle. Brush with a little oil.
5. Fry the pancakes in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Wood Ear Mushroom Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to add some crunch and nutrition to your meal. With the sweetness of Chinese cabbage and the earthy flavor of wood ear mushrooms, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of wood ear mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced wood ear mushrooms and cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced Chinese cabbage and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crunch.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Glass Noodle Salad
A refreshing and crunchy salad that combines the sweetness of Chinese cabbage with the chewiness of glass noodles, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 200g glass noodles
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Chinese cabbage, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Toss until the cabbage is evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Add the cooked glass noodles to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Pork Belly Stew
This hearty stew combines the tender flavors of pork belly with the crunch of Chinese cabbage, all wrapped up in a savory broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Chinese cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork belly and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add Chinese cabbage and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return pork belly to the pot, along with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and chicken broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pork is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Shrimp Wontons
This recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the crunch of Chinese cabbage, all wrapped up in a delicate wonton wrapper. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup cooked and diced shrimp
– 1/2 cup chopped Chinese cabbage
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked shrimp, Chinese cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the wonton.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook wontons in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Ginger Fried Rice
A flavorful and nutritious Chinese-inspired dish that combines the crunch of cabbage with the warmth of ginger and savory rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, finely chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the grated ginger, diced onion, and minced garlic; stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the rice to brown slightly.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of China with these 18 mouth-watering cabbage recipes! From classic stir-fries to hearty stews and soups, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making Chinese Cabbage and Pork Dumplings, or go spicy with the Sichuan Cabbage Stir-Fry. For a lighter option, whip up the Sweet and Sour Chinese Cabbage Salad. And don’t miss out on the comfort foods like Braised Chinese Cabbage with Mushrooms and Steamed Chinese Cabbage Rolls with Minced Pork. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to delight.
Leave a Reply