A Deliciously Simple Stir-Fry
Fried cabbage with shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of shrimp with the slight crunch of sautéed cabbage. This dish is perfect for a fast weeknight meal, requiring minimal ingredients and effort while delivering bold flavors. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a more savory, garlicky profile, this versatile recipe can be adapted to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to different spice levels and flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for garnish)
- Green onions or cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Peel and devein the shrimp if not prepped already. Shred the cabbage into thin strips and slice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté the garlic, onion, ginger, and bell pepper for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the Cabbage
Add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage softens but retains some crunch.
5. Season the Dish
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat the cabbage evenly.
6. Return the Shrimp
Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan. Stir everything together and let cook for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
7. Final Touches
Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with green onions or cilantro. Serve hot.
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the oyster sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap shrimp for tofu or mushrooms.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in some shredded carrots or bean sprouts.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture. You can also microwave it for about 1 minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque—about 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is ideal, but Napa or savoy cabbage also work well.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms make great additions.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb meal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, stir-fry the cabbage fresh and reheat the shrimp separately.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, if you use a low-carb soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the end just to warm them through, as they are already cooked.
What’s a good substitute for soy sauce?
Try coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Can I use other proteins?
Yes! Chicken, beef, or tofu can replace shrimp in this recipe.
Conclusion
Fried cabbage with shrimp is a simple, satisfying dish that’s full of flavor and easy to customize. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy version, this quick stir-fry is sure to become a favorite. Try it out for a wholesome, delicious meal that’s both nutritious and incredibly easy to make!
Fried Cabbage With Shrimp – A Quick & Flavorful Dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Fried cabbage with shrimp is a quick and flavorful stir-fry, combining the sweetness of shrimp with the crunch of cabbage. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy, budget-friendly meal is packed with lean protein, fiber, and bold flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for garnish)
- Green onions or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients – Shred cabbage, slice onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Peel and devein shrimp if necessary.
- Cook Shrimp – Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Sauté garlic, onion, ginger, and bell pepper for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Cabbage – Stir in shredded cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly softened.
- Season Dish – Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Return Shrimp – Add shrimp back to the pan and stir everything together. Cook for 1–2 more minutes.
- Garnish & Serve – Drizzle with sesame oil, garnish with green onions or cilantro, and serve hot.
Notes
- Make it Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add sriracha.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip oyster sauce.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Swap shrimp for tofu or mushrooms.
- Extra Crunch: Add shredded carrots or bean sprouts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: main dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: fried cabbage with shrimp, shrimp stir-fry, cabbage stir-fry, easy shrimp recipes, quick dinner recipes
