Cabbage Stir-Fry

This pork cabbage stir-fry is sauteed with an aromatic and punchy sauce that has hints of ginger and garlic. It’s highly customizable—you can make it spicier by adding serrano or shishito peppers, or heartier by tossing in sweet potatoes or squash. Serve this cabbage dish with a side of fluffy rice or buttery noodles, and you have a meal. This dish takes less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a simple meal prep idea.

Cabbage Stir-Fry Ingredients

• Sauce: To create the sweet and spicy sauce for this dish, we whisk together cornstarch, sugar, white wine (or chicken broth) and soy sauce.
• Pork: We cut boneless pork loin into 2-inch strips and add them to this cabbage stir-fry.
• Vegetables: We add napa cabbage, carrots and garlic to pack this dish with hearty vegetables. 
• Ground ginger: The ginger is responsible for infusing subtly spicy and aromatic flavors into the dish. 
• Rice: We like to serve this saucy stir-fry on top of a bed of fluffy white rice.
• Sesame seeds (optional): If you like, finish off the dish with a garnish of sesame seeds.

Directions

Step 1: Make the sauce

In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and sugar. Stir in the wine (or broth) and soy sauce, and whisk until smooth.

Step 2: Cook the pork

Heat a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the pork, and stir-fry until it’s no longer pink.

Step 3: Add the vegetables

Add the carrots, garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for two minutes. Add the cabbage, and cook until it’s wilted.

Step 4: Combine everything

Give the soy sauce mixture a quick stir, and add it to the skillet. Bring the liquid to a boil, then cook and stir for two minutes or until thickened. Serve the stir-fry with rice, and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.

 Cabbage Stir-Fry Variations

• Add more vegetables: You can easily take any vegetable hanging out in your fridge and add it to this recipe. Mix in broccoli, kale or string beans, to start.
• Use fresh ginger: Instead of ground ginger, opt for the fresh version for a more pronounced ginger flavor.
• Make it spicy: Have fun with the seasonings in this recipe. Add red pepper flakes or chili powder for bites with a bit more heat.

How to Store Cabbage Stir-Fry

You can store this flavorful and saucy cabbage stir-fry in an airtight container. It will last three to four days in the refrigerator. 

Can you make cabbage stir-fry ahead of time?

This cabbage stir-fry recipe is ideal for meal prep. Make a big batch at the start of the week, store it in the fridge for three to four days, then simply reheat it when you need a quick lunch or dinner.

Can you freeze stir-fry cabbage?

We don’t recommend freezing this stir-fry recipe because it’s very saucy, and once it’s frozen, the taste and texture will change.  

How long does stir-fried cabbage last?

If you have a bunch of leftover cabbage stir-fry, you can store it in the fridge for three to four days. 

Cabbage Stir-Fry Tips

Can I use a different pork for this cabbage stir-fry?

While we recommend pork loin, you can substitute it with ground pork. Follow the recipe, but keep in mind that depending on the cut of meat, you may need more or less time sauteing it. Monitor the color of the pork. Once there is no pink showing, it’s finished cooking.

Can I make a vegan version of this cabbage stir-fry?

Yes! There are so many plant-based meat alternatives at the grocery store. To make a vegan- or veggie-friendly version of this cabbage stir-fry recipe, just nix the pork. (Psst: If you’ve never cooked with vegan ingredients, here’s our guide to plant-based meats.)

What can I serve alongside cabbage stir-fry?

Cabbage stir-fry is delicious when paired with fluffy rice or buttery noodles. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or butternut squash for a more comforting take.