Garlic cabbage is a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish that's perfect for any meal. Its humble ingredients—cabbage, garlic, and a touch of oil—transform into a surprisingly satisfying and versatile accompaniment. This recipe emphasizes ease and affordability, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or budget-conscious cooks. The savory, slightly sweet, and subtly spicy notes of this dish make it a welcome addition to any table, complementing everything from roasted meats to grilled fish. It's also wonderfully adaptable; feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins to customize it to your taste.
This incredibly easy-to-make recipe will teach you how to prepare delicious garlic cabbage in just minutes. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal effort. Prepare to be amazed by how much deliciousness can be achieved with such simple ingredients. Ready to unlock the secrets of this fantastic dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Cabbage
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Spring Onions (white part): 2 stalks (optional)
- Water: 2 tablespoons
- Cooking Oil: 2 tablespoons (1 tablespoon vegetable oil + 1 tablespoon sesame oil)
- Salt
- Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Chop cabbage, shred it, or cut it to your liking. Wash and drain thoroughly.
- Chop two cloves of garlic. Garlic powder can be used as a substitute.


Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook Cabbage
- Add cooking oil (vegetable and sesame oil) to the pot.
- Add chopped spring onions and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but avoid burning.
- Add the cabbage to the pot.
- Add 2 tablespoons of water (adjust amount based on the quantity of cabbage). Stir well.




- Cook on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender to your liking. This will take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3. Season
- Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.


Read more: Shojin Ryori: Delicious Buddhist Vegetarian Recipes
Tips
- This recipe is budget-friendly and can be easily frozen for later use.
- Adjust the amount of water according to the quantity of cabbage used. More cabbage requires more water.
- For a crispier texture, don't overcook the cabbage.
- Optional additions: onion powder and garlic powder.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of cabbage instead of Napa cabbage?
Yes! Green cabbage or even red cabbage will work well, though the flavor will be slightly different. Green cabbage will be a bit more bitter, while red cabbage will add a beautiful color and mild sweetness.
2. How can I store leftover garlic cabbage?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's delicious cold or reheated gently in a pan.
This simple Japanese garlic cabbage recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With minimal effort and readily available ingredients, you can create a flavorful side dish that will impress your family and friends. So, try this recipe tonight and enjoy the satisfying taste of this easy, frugal, and truly delicious dish!