Salmon and Napa Cabbage Stew: A Simple Japanese Recipe

This simple yet elegant Japanese-inspired salmon and Napa cabbage stew is a perfect weeknight meal. It's surprisingly quick to prepare, bursting with fresh flavors, and incredibly comforting. The delicate sweetness of the Napa cabbage perfectly complements the richness of the salmon, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it both budget-friendly and easy to adapt to your personal preferences – add some ginger for extra zing, or a splash of sake for depth. It's a healthy and delicious option that's sure to become a family favorite.

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of both salmon and Napa cabbage, packed with nutrients and flavor. Ready to create this delicious and healthy meal? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own Salmon and Napa Cabbage Stew.

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillet
  • Napa cabbage
  • Onion
  • Carrot
  • Potato
  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Milk or Cream
  • Broth (Chicken or Vegetable)
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Bay leaf
  • Thyme
  • Parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients

  • Chop the onion, carrot, and potato into bite-sized pieces. Cut the Napa cabbage into roughly equal-sized pieces. Cut the salmon fillet into serving-sized pieces.
Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, carrot, and potato into bite-sized pieces. Cut the Napa cabbage into roughly equal-sized pieces. Cut the salmon fillet into serving-sized pieces.
Prepare the Ingredients

Step 2. Sauté Vegetables and Make a Roux

  • Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and potato and sauté until softened.
  • Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for about a minute to create a roux.
Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and potato and sauté until softened. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for about a minute to create a roux.
Sauté Vegetables and Make a Roux

Step 3. Create the Stew Base and Cook the Salmon and Cabbage

  • Gradually whisk in milk or cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the broth, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and thyme.
  • Bring the stew to a simmer, then add the Napa cabbage and salmon. Continue to simmer until the salmon is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
Gradually whisk in milk or cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the broth, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and thyme.Bring the stew to a simmer, then add the Napa cabbage and salmon. Continue to simmer until the salmon is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
Create the Stew Base and Cook the Salmon and Cabbage

Step 4. Garnish and Serve

  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Garnish and Serve

Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe

Tips

  • Adjust seasoning to your preference.

Nutrition

  • Calories: Approximately 400-500
  • Fat: 20-30g
  • Carbs: 30-40g
  • Protein: 25-35g

FAQs

1. Can I substitute Napa cabbage with other types of cabbage?

Yes! Other types of cabbage like savoy or green cabbage will work, but Napa cabbage offers a unique sweetness that complements the salmon best. You might need to adjust cooking time depending on the cabbage type.

2. What kind of salmon should I use?

Fresh or frozen salmon fillets work equally well. Look for fillets that are skin-on or skinless, depending on your preference. Salmon steaks can also be used, but adjust cooking time as needed.

3. Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.


This simple Salmon and Napa Cabbage Stew is a testament to the beauty of fresh, uncomplicated flavors. Enjoy this healthy and delicious meal as a comforting weeknight dinner or a light yet satisfying lunch. We hope you enjoy this easy recipe and encourage you to experiment with your own variations!