Ingredients:
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced (optional)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or cilantro
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and slice the cabbage, bell pepper, carrot, and onion. Mince the garlic and ginger, if using.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Add Garlic and Ginger:
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced cabbage, bell pepper, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Season:
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the soy sauce and rice vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to coat all the vegetables evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Remove the stir-fry from heat and transfer it to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or cilantro for added flavor.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the cabbage stir-fry warm as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite protein.
Tips for Success:
- Add Protein: To make this dish more filling, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the stir-fry.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables you enjoy, such as broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini.
- Meal Prep: This stir-fry can be made in bulk and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for healthy meals throughout the week.
This Cabbage and Vegetable Stir-Fry is not only a tasty and satisfying dish but also a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while supporting your weight loss goals. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this delicious recipe!