Cabbage Garlic Soy Peas

A quick, vibrant vegetable stir-fry with tender cabbage, sweet peas, and savory garlic-soy flavor—perfect as a side or light main.

This cabbage stir-fry is my go-to whenever I want something easy but satisfying. The simple garlic-soy sauce takes basic veggies to the next level and always impresses my family at dinner.

Ingredients

• Green cabbage: 1 medium head (about 700 g), core removed, thinly sliced
• Frozen green peas: 1 cup (150 g)
• Scallions: 2, sliced (optional for garnish)
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Fresh ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated (optional)
• Soy sauce (or tamari): 2 tablespoons
• Toasted sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
• Rice vinegar: 1 teaspoon
• Sugar or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon
• Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
• Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (e.g., canola, sunflower)

Instructions

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Prepare the sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and black pepper. Set aside.

Heat the pan:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Sauté aromatics:

Add the minced garlic and ginger (if using) and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook cabbage:

Add the sliced cabbage. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until it starts to wilt but remains crisp.

Add peas:

Add frozen peas and continue to stir-fry for another 2–3 minutes until peas are heated through and cabbage is tender-crisp.

Finish:

Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss well to coat. Cook for another minute.

Serve:

Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions if desired.

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Sharing this dish reminds me of my childhood when my mom cooked simple stir-fries with whatever veggies we had. Now, my kids enjoy helping to toss everything in the pan and taste as we go.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy the stir-fry over steamed rice or as a side with grilled tofu or chicken for a more filling main meal.

Variations

Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a spicy kick, or swap green cabbage for Napa cabbage for a more delicate crunch.

Allergen Note

This recipe is vegetarian and vegan if using vegan soy sauce. For gluten-free, use tamari and always check ingredient labels.

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This dish is perfect for busy evenings and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of cabbage works best for stir-frying?

Green cabbage with a firm texture and thinly sliced leaves holds up well in stir-fries, offering a crisp-tender bite.

→ Can frozen peas be used directly in the dish?

Yes, adding frozen peas during the final minutes of cooking warms them through while maintaining their bright color and sweetness.

→ How can I enhance the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish?

Quickly stir-frying minced garlic at the start releases aroma and subtle flavor without bitterness or burning.

→ What alternatives to soy sauce suit gluten-free options?

Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative that maintains the savory umami character in the sauce.

→ Is it possible to add heat or spice to this dish?

Absolutely—incorporate a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil while stir-frying to introduce a gentle kick.