Craving a quick, comforting side dish that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than fried cabbage! Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or celebrating seasonal produce, these 20 delicious recipes—from smoky bacon-kissed versions to spicy skillet sensations—will make this humble veggie the star of your table. Get ready to fall in love with cabbage all over again!
Garlic Butter Fried Cabbage
This buttery, garlicky fried cabbage is a quick side dish that’s packed with flavor—ready in under 15 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced cabbage, 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp smoked paprika. Toss to coat in the butter.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp at the edges.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp lemon juice and 2 tbsp chopped parsley.
The smoky paprika and bright lemon balance the rich butter, while the cabbage stays just crisp enough for a satisfying bite. It’s a simple dish that tastes way fancier than it is!
Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle with crispy bacon or toasted breadcrumbs before serving.
Spicy Southern Fried Cabbage
This fiery twist on classic fried cabbage packs a punch with smoky bacon, Cajun spice, and a splash of hot sauce—perfect for spicing up weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large head green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 8 cups)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Louisiana-style)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving drippings in the pan.
- Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in cabbage, stirring to coat in drippings. Sprinkle with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender-crisp (10–12 minutes).
- Off heat, stir in 1 tbsp hot sauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and reserved bacon. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
The magic here? The vinegar and hot sauce cut through the richness of the bacon, creating a bold, tangy finish that’ll have you reaching for seconds.
Tip: For extra smokiness, swap the bacon with diced andouille sausage.
Bacon and Onion Fried Cabbage
This Southern-inspired dish turns humble cabbage into a smoky, savory side that practically begs to be piled onto your plate.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 lbs), cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving drippings in the pan.
- Add onion to the skillet and cook in bacon fat until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in cabbage and cook, tossing occasionally, until wilted and lightly charred in spots, 12-15 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Add apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp), brown sugar (1 tsp), red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp), and black pepper (1/4 tsp), scraping up any browned bits. Cook 1 minute until glazed.
- Remove from heat and stir in reserved bacon.
The magic here is in the contrast: sweet caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and that tangy vinegar punch cutting through the cabbage’s earthiness. It’s way more exciting than your average veggie side!
Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted pecans right before serving.
Sweet and Sour Fried Cabbage
This quick and vibrant dish balances tangy and sweet flavors with crispy-tender cabbage—perfect as a side or piled onto rice for a simple meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Melt 3 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly browned but still crisp-tender.
- Reduce heat to medium. Stir in 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Toss to coat and cook for 2 more minutes until the liquid thickens slightly.
The magic here is in the contrast: the cabbage stays crunchy while soaking up that glossy, sweet-tangy glaze. It’s a humble veggie side that steals the show.
Tip: For extra depth, swap honey with maple syrup or add a splash of soy sauce with the vinegar.
Smoked Sausage Fried Cabbage
This hearty one-pan dish combines smoky sausage with tender, caramelized cabbage for a quick weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 6 cups)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped cabbage, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp smoked paprika. Toss to coat, then cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is wilted and edges are golden.
- Return sausage to the skillet, drizzle with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, and toss everything together. Cook for 2 more minutes to blend flavors.
The vinegar’s tangy punch cuts through the richness of the sausage, while the cabbage soaks up all the smoky goodness—no extra sauce needed!
Tip: For extra crunch, leave the cabbage slightly undercooked and finish with a squeeze of lemon.
Healthy Olive Oil Fried Cabbage
This simple yet flavorful fried cabbage is a weeknight hero—caramelized edges, a hint of garlic, and just enough richness from good olive oil.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium green cabbage (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the cabbage and toss to coat. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes to let edges brown.
- Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Continue cooking for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar and ½ tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to combine.
The magic here? Letting the cabbage sear undisturbed at first for those crispy, golden bits—no mushy veggies here!
Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of smoked paprika with the garlic.
Cajun-Style Fried Cabbage
This smoky, slightly spicy fried cabbage is a one-pan wonder that brings big flavor with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty Southern-style side.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving drippings in the pan.
- Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cabbage, smoked paprika (1 tsp), cayenne (1/2 tsp), thyme (1 tsp), salt (1/2 tsp), and black pepper (1/4 tsp). Toss to coat, then cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Off heat, drizzle with apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp) and sprinkle the reserved bacon on top. Toss once more before serving.
The magic here? The cabbage soaks up all the smoky bacon fat and spices while keeping a satisfying crunch—no mushy veggies here!
Tip: For extra depth, swap half the paprika with Cajun seasoning (like Tony Chachere’s).
Fried Cabbage with Carrots and Peas
This simple, veggie-packed side dish is a weeknight hero—sweet carrots, tender peas, and caramelized cabbage come together in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 4 cups)
- 2 medium carrots, julienned
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Add cabbage and carrots. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and lightly browned at the edges.
- Stir in peas, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes until the peas are warmed through.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with apple cider vinegar, tossing to coat.
The vinegar adds a bright tang that balances the sweetness of the carrots and peas—no one will guess how quick this was to make!
Tip: For extra crunch, top with toasted sliced almonds just before serving.
Asian-Inspired Fried Cabbage
This quick stir-fry transforms humble cabbage into a savory, slightly sweet side dish with big umami flavor—ready in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 small green cabbage (about 1 lb), thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
- Heat 3 tbsp neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced cabbage and stir-fry for 5 minutes, until slightly wilted but still crisp.
- Push cabbage to one side. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated ginger to the empty space and cook for 30 seconds, stirring, until fragrant.
- Toss everything together, then add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 2–3 more minutes until cabbage is tender-crisp.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions.
The magic here? A quick splash of rice vinegar at the end brightens the dish, balancing the rich soy and nutty sesame. Perfect alongside grilled meats or piled onto rice bowls!
Tip: For extra crunch, add a handful of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts just before serving.
Fried Cabbage with Bell Peppers
This fried cabbage with bell peppers is a vibrant, one-pan wonder that balances sweet, smoky, and savory flavors—perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty side dish.
- 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter with 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cabbage and bell peppers, stirring to coat. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies begin to soften.
- Sprinkle in 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if using), 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Toss to distribute the spices evenly.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Continue cooking for another 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender with lightly charred edges.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, tossing to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
The caramelized edges of the cabbage and the bright crunch of the peppers make this dish irresistibly textural—plus, the hint of vinegar cuts through the richness beautifully.
Tip: For extra depth, add a crumbled strip of cooked bacon or a splash of Worcestershire sauce in step 3.
Cheesy Fried Cabbage Casserole
This cozy casserole turns humble cabbage into a creamy, cheesy comfort dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping—perfect for weeknights or potlucks.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cabbage to the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until wilted and lightly browned. Remove from heat.
- Fold in cheddar cheese and sour cream until evenly combined. Transfer to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp melted butter, and olive oil. Sprinkle over the cabbage mixture.
- Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
The magic here? Pan-frying the cabbage first deepens its sweetness, while the crispy panko adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
Tip: Swap half the cabbage with kale for extra texture and nutrients!
Fried Cabbage with Ground Beef
This Fried Cabbage with Ground Beef is a hearty, one-pan wonder that’s packed with savory flavor and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned (about 5–6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cabbage, stirring to combine with the beef. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well.
- Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
The magic here? The cabbage soaks up all the rich beefy flavors while keeping a satisfying crunch—no mushy veggies here!
Tip: For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of apple cider vinegar before adding the broth.
Vegan Fried Cabbage with Tofu
This hearty stir-fry combines crispy tofu and tender cabbage with a savory-sweet glaze—perfect for a quick weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-oz) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 small green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add tofu and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden and crisp. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cabbage and stir-fry for 5 minutes until slightly wilted. Pour in soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat and cook 3–4 more minutes until cabbage is tender but still crisp.
- Return tofu to the skillet and stir to combine. Serve warm.
The magic here? The caramelized edges of the tofu soak up the sticky-sweet glaze, while the cabbage stays crunchy for a satisfying contrast.
Tip: For extra crispiness, toss the tofu in 1 tbsp cornstarch before frying.
Fried Cabbage with Apples and Raisins
Fried Cabbage with Apples and Raisins
Sweet apples and plump raisins balance the savory depth of fried cabbage in this quick, comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Melt 2 tbsp butter with 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in apples, 1/3 cup raisins, 1 tsp brown sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon. Cook 5 more minutes until apples are tender but not mushy.
- Add remaining 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, tossing to coat. Cook 1 final minute to glaze.
The vinegar’s tang cuts through the richness, while the raisins add little bursts of sweetness in every bite.
Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted walnuts just before serving.
Fried Cabbage with Corn and Black Beans
This hearty skillet dish is packed with smoky-sweet flavor and comes together in just 20 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 lb green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
- Add cabbage and stir-fry for 5 minutes until slightly wilted but still crisp.
- Stir in 1 cup corn, black beans, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook for 4 more minutes until corn is tender.
- Remove from heat and toss with 1 tbsp lime juice and 2 tbsp cilantro.
The magic here? The cabbage keeps a satisfying crunch while soaking up all the smoky spices—no mushy veggies here!
Tip: Swap in fire-roasted corn for extra depth, or top with crumbled cotija cheese for a creamy contrast.
Fried Cabbage with Mushrooms and Thyme
This simple, savory side dish transforms humble cabbage into something rich and caramelized, with earthy mushrooms and fragrant thyme tying it all together.
Ingredients:
- 1 small green cabbage (about 1.5 lbs), thinly sliced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
- Heat 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Transfer to a plate.
- Add remaining 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Stir in cabbage, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until edges are golden and cabbage is tender but still crisp.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and thyme, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant. Return mushrooms to the skillet, drizzle with apple cider vinegar, and toss to combine. Cook for 1 more minute.
The magic here is in the contrast: sweet, caramelized cabbage meets meaty mushrooms, with a bright pop from the vinegar cutting through the richness.
Tip: For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the vinegar.
Fried Cabbage with Sweet Potatoes
This hearty, slightly sweet side dish brings together tender cabbage and caramelized sweet potatoes in one skillet—perfect for weeknights when you want big flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium sweet potato (about 1 lb), diced into ½-inch cubes
- ½ tsp salt, divided
- ½ small green cabbage (about 4 cups), thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add sweet potato and sprinkle with ¼ tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes until edges are golden and tender. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and butter. Add cabbage, ¼ tsp salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until wilted but still crisp.
- Return sweet potatoes to the skillet. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and honey, tossing to coat. Cook 1–2 minutes more until glazed.
The magic here? The honey and vinegar create a glossy, tangy-sweet glaze that clings to every bite. It’s comfort food with a bright twist!
Tip: For extra crunch, top with toasted pecans just before serving.
Fried Cabbage with Coconut Milk and Curry
This fragrant, creamy fried cabbage is a quick weeknight side with just the right balance of spice and richness—no one will guess it comes together in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 small green cabbage (about 1.5 lbs), thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 2 tbsp coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and cook 3 minutes, stirring, until softened. Add garlic, 1 tbsp curry powder, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cabbage and toss to coat in spices. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage wilts slightly.
- Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender and sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat. Stir in 1 tbsp lime juice and top with cilantro (if using).
The magic here? The coconut milk caramelizes just slightly at the edges of the cabbage, adding a subtle sweetness to each bite.
Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes or crushed peanuts before serving.
Fried Cabbage with Pineapple and Cashews
This sweet-savory stir-fry is a quick weeknight win—crunchy cabbage, juicy pineapple, and buttery cashews come together in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tbsp coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add cashews and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until golden. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp coconut oil. Add cabbage and stir-fry for 5 minutes until slightly wilted but still crisp.
- Push cabbage to one side. Add pineapple to the empty space and cook undisturbed for 1 minute to caramelize. Toss with cabbage.
- Drizzle with soy sauce, honey, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Stir-fry 2 more minutes until glazed.
- Remove from heat and toss in toasted cashews.
The magic here? The pineapple’s caramelized edges play off the smoky cashews—it’s like a tropical vacation in a skillet.
Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle with sesame seeds right before serving.
Fried Cabbage with Lemon and Dill
This bright, tangy fried cabbage is a quick side dish that brings a pop of freshness to any meal—perfect for shaking up your veggie routine.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter with 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves garlic, minced and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced cabbage, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp at the edges.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp fresh dill, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp lemon zest. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
The lemon and dill cut through the richness of the butter, making this dish feel light yet satisfying—ideal alongside grilled chicken or fish.
Tip: For extra texture, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or crumbled feta before serving.
Conclusion
With so many tasty ways to enjoy fried cabbage, there’s a recipe here for every craving! Whether you’re keeping it simple or adding bold flavors, these dishes are sure to become weeknight favorites. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share which one you loved most in the comments. Pin this roundup to save for later—happy cooking!