Recipes With Napa Cabbage

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 04, 2025

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Napa Cabbage Recipes: A Deliciously Versatile Vegetable

Napa cabbage, also known as Chinese cabbage, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that adds a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness to a wide range of dishes. Its mild flavor makes it a perfect blank canvas for bold seasonings and diverse culinary approaches. This post explores several exciting recipes showcasing the best ways to incorporate Napa cabbage into your meals, boosting flavor and nutritional value.

Quick and Easy Napa Cabbage Stir-Fry

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 head Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 red chili pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
• Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add sliced Napa cabbage and chili pepper (if using) and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until the cabbage wilts slightly but still retains some crunch.
4. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey (if using). Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Hearty Napa Cabbage and Sausage Soup

This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening and showcases Napa cabbage's ability to hold its own in heartier dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 head Napa cabbage, chopped
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
4. Stir in chopped Napa cabbage, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Refreshing Napa Cabbage Salad with Peanut Dressing

This vibrant salad provides a light and refreshing option, perfect as a side dish or a light lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 head Napa cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Peanut Dressing:

• 1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon water (adjust to desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. Combine shredded Napa cabbage, carrots, and cilantro in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together all the peanut dressing ingredients until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency.
3. Pour dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Garnish with chopped peanuts and serve immediately.

Tips for Using Napa Cabbage

• Storage: Store Napa cabbage in a plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer for up to a week.
• Preparation: Wash and trim the outer leaves before slicing or shredding. You can use the entire cabbage, including the core (finely chopped).
• Flavor Combinations: Napa cabbage pairs well with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and chili. It also complements other Asian-inspired flavors and spices.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to discover your favorite Napa cabbage recipes! Remember to always properly wash your produce before using it in any recipe. Enjoy!