There’s something so comforting about a sizzling wok, right? The aroma of garlic mingling with the tangy notes of vinegar and spice is enough to wrap you up in a cozy hug. That’s why this stir-fried napa cabbage with hot sour sauce is making waves on TikTok and Pinterest. Everyone’s craving that perfect balance of heat and flavor!
This dish is all about simplicity. With just napa cabbage, garlic, and a splash of that hot sour sauce, you can whip up a meal that’s cozy and delicious in no time. Think of it as your grandma’s cabbage rolls but way quicker and easier. Full details in the blog!
I remember my mom tossing greens in the pan while reminding us to breathe in the good smells. Cooking should feel just like that: warm and chaotic, but always wholesome. I tested it, and trust me, you’ll adore the secret!
This dish is a quick and flavorful stir-fried napa cabbage with hot sour sauce featuring a spicy and tangy Sichuan twist. Perfect for a fast vegan meal, it combines the crunch of napa cabbage with a fragrant garlic and vinegar stir fry.
Ingredients
Scale
1 small Napa cabbage Chinese cabbage about 450 g or 1 lbs
1½ tablespoon black rice vinegar see note 1
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
½ teaspoon dark soy sauce optional
1 tablespoon tapioca starch or cornstarch
1 pinch salt
1 pinch sugar
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon cooking oil
4 cloves garlic minced
6 dried chilies cut in sections or to taste see note 2
1 stalk scallions finely chopped
Instructions
Separate the Napa cabbage leaves and slice them diagonally into bite-sized pieces.
Combine black rice vinegar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, starch, salt, sugar, and water in a small bowl, stirring well.
Heat a wok on high until smoking, add oil, then sauté garlic and dried chilies until aromatic without burning.
Add the cabbage and stir-fry until the leafy greens begin to soften while the white parts stay crisp.
Stir the sauce again then pour it over the cabbage, add scallions, mix thoroughly, cook until sauce thickens, and remove from heat. Serve immediately.
Notes
There isn’t a substitute for Chinese black rice vinegar
use Zhenjiang vinegar for the best flavor
Adjust dried chili quantity based on your preferred spiciness
fresh chili can replace dried chilies if unavailable
Prep Time:4 minutes
Cook Time:3 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Chinese
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 serving
Calories:136kcal
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stir-fried napa cabbage with hot sour sauce is a delightful blend of flavors that perfectly balances heat and tanginess. It feels like a cozy hug from the inside out! Here’s why you’ll keep coming back for more:
Quick & Easy: In just 7 minutes, you can turn a humble napa cabbage into an impressive side dish or mealideal for busy weeknights!
Full of Flavor: The mix of garlic, dried chilies, and rich black rice vinegar creates a dish bursting with flavor, without any fuss.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with nutrients from the cabbage, this recipe fits nicely into a balanced diet with no added complications.
Family-Friendly: Mild enough for kids, yet easily adjustable to suit your spice preference.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Having the right ingredients is essential to crafting this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Napa Cabbage: The star of the show! Choose fresh, crisp leaves. One small cabbage works perfectly.
Garlic & Dried Chilies: These add depth of flavor. Adjust the chilies to match your spice tolerance!
Sauces & Starch: Black rice vinegar delivers the tangy punch, complemented by light and optional dark soy sauce. Tapioca starch thickens the sauce nicely.
Wok or Large Skillet: A well-seasoned wok is ideal for quick tossing, but any large skillet will work just fine.
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to cook? Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a wonderful dish in no time:
Prepare the Cabbage: Separate the leaves and cut them into bite-sized pieces on a diagonal. Enjoy the satisfying crunch as you chop!
Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine black rice vinegar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), tapioca starch, salt, sugar, and water. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Stir-Fry: Heat your wok over high heat until it’s hot enough to smoke slightly. Add cooking oil, then minced garlic and dried chilies. Stir until fragrantbe careful not to burn the garlic, or it might get too spicy!
Add the Cabbage: Toss in the chopped napa cabbage and stir-fry until the greens wilt but the whites remain crunchy, about 2 minutes.
Combine & Serve: Give your reserved sauce a final stir, pour it into the wok, add chopped scallions just before finishing, then mix everything until the sauce thickens. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips & Variations
Here are some handy tips to make this dish even better!
Substitutions: No black rice vinegar? A mix of balsamic vinegar and water can work in a pinch.
Extra Crunch: Toss in nuts like peanuts or sesame seeds at the end for added texture.
More Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or tofu to make the meal heartier.
Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note that the cabbage will soften further as it sits.
How to Serve & Store
This stir-fried napa cabbage is delicious right from the stove and versatile for many meals:
Serving Suggestions
Storage Tips
Enjoy it warm as a side with rice or noodles.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.
Pair with grilled chicken or tofu for a complete meal.
Reheat in a pan, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Mix with another sautéed vegetable for a colorful plate.
Store for up to 3 days for the best flavor and texture.
Prepare to enjoy a cozy meal with your family or friendsthis stir-fried napa cabbage with hot sour sauce is sure to become a beloved kitchen staple. Happy cooking!
Expert Says
Stir-fried napa cabbage with hot sour sauce not only delights the palate but also retains its nutritional value thanks to fast cooking. This cruciferous vegetable is rich in vitamins C and K, and its mild flavor pairs beautifully with bold spices, enhancing both taste and nutritional benefits.
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The Path to Perfect Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce
After many trials, I finally nailed this stir-fried napa cabbage with hot sour sauce. Let’s just say my first attempt was so salty, it could’ve doubled as a salt lick! But through that chaos, I learned how to balance flavors and create a dish packed with zing and warmtha true reminder of family gatherings.
FAQs ( Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce )
How can I make Napa cabbage more flavorful?
Add flavorful ingredients like garlic, ginger, or chili paste when stir-frying. Pair the cabbage with soy sauce and rice vinegar for an umami kick. The hot sour sauce in this recipe enhances the natural sweetness while providing the right balance of heat.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to enhance the dish. Just ensure that they are sliced smaller for even cooking. Be mindful of adjusting cooking times based on the vegetable types.
What is the best way to store leftover stir-fry?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Microwaving works too, but be careful not to overcook the cabbage.
Is this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is completely vegan, featuring fresh Napa cabbage and plant-based ingredients. The hot sour sauce is made without any animal products, making it suitable for plant-based diets.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spiciness can be adjusted based on your taste preferences. The amount of chili sauce you add determines the heat level. Start with a little, taste, and add more if you enjoy a stronger kick!
Conclusion
You’ll love how this stir-fried napa cabbage with hot sour sauce turns simple ingredients into a warm hug for your taste buds! In just 7 quick minutes, you’ll enjoy a fragrant, comforting dish that makes weeknight dinners effortless. The crunchy texture combined with spicy notes will have everyone coming back for seconds.
For a twist, try sprinkling sesame seeds or adding your favorite sautéed veggies! If time gets away from you, leftovers easily reheat with a splash of water in the pan to keep that cozy crunch. It’s a trick I learned from my auntshe always knew how to freshen up her dishes, even the next day!
I’d love to hear how your stir-fry turns out! Did you grow up enjoying something similar? Please share your photos and memories, and don’t forget to save or share this recipe with fellow cooking enthusiasts. Let’s keep the joy of home cooking aliveone delicious meal at a time!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
