Crispy edges. Soft, savory center. A little bit golden, a little bit comforting. Cabbage pancake is one of those dishes that feels like a warm kitchen hugsimple, satisfying, and way more delicious than it sounds.
I first made these during a rainy spring weekend in 2019, testing endless variations until my kitchen smelled like caramelized cabbage and toasted sesame oil. The trick? Don’t rush the fliplet the bottom get truly crispy before you turn it, or you’ll end up with a soft mess (ask me how I know). After years of recipe development and plenty of pancake fails, this version finally nails that perfect balance of texture and flavor.
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Cabbage Pancake Recipe – Easy and Delicious in Minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
This Cabbage Pancake is a simple and tasty dish made with fresh herbs and eggs. It is crispy and flavorful, perfect for a quick breakfast or anytime meal. Enjoy a delicious American classic ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. cabbage
- 2 eggs
- ⅛ cup chopped dill
- ⅓ tsp. salt or to taste
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp. oil (I used grapeseed)
Instructions
- Slice the cabbage thinly like coleslaw and put it into a mixing bowl.
- Mix in the eggs, salt, and dill thoroughly.
- Add the flour and stir the mixture until combined.
- Warm the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add the cabbage mixture, pressing it down to about ¾ to 1 inch thickness.
- Cover the pan and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, then carefully flip it with the help of a plate and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes.
Notes
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the pancake from sticking or breaking when flipped
- Fresh herbs provide better flavor than dried ones
- All-purpose flour holds the pancake together best, but gluten-free substitutes can be used with some compromise on texture
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 215 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 403 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 164 mg

Why This Recipe Works So Well
There’s something magical about transforming a humble head of cabbage into a crispy, golden pancake that’s both light and satisfying. Here’s what makes this one a keeper:
- Minimal ingredients: Just cabbage, eggs, flour, fresh dill, and a pinch of saltnothing fancy, nothing complicated.
- Quick weeknight win: From cutting board to table in just 15 minutes, making it perfect when you need something fast but comforting.
- Crispy-tender magic: The edges get beautifully golden and crunchy while the center stays soft and savory.
- Versatile enough for any meal: Serve it for breakfast with a dollop of sour cream, as a light lunch, or alongside roasted chicken for dinner.
The Key Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient plays a specific role in creating that perfect texture and flavor balance. Let me walk you through what you’ll be working with:
Cabbage forms the baseslice it thin like coleslaw so it cooks evenly and creates those tender layers. Eggs act as the binder, holding everything together while adding richness. All-purpose flour provides just enough structure without making it heavy or dense. Fresh dill is non-negotiable here; its bright, grassy flavor cuts through the richness and makes every bite feel fresh. Finally, a touch of salt and a tablespoon of oil (I use grapeseed, but any neutral oil works) complete the simple lineup.
| Ingredient | Why It Matters | Easy Swap |
|---|---|---|
| Cabbage | Creates tender layers and mild sweetness | Green or savoy cabbage both work |
| Fresh Dill | Adds bright, herbaceous flavor | Fresh parsley or chives (not dried) |
| All-Purpose Flour | Holds the pancake together | Gluten-free flour blend (may be more delicate) |
| Grapeseed Oil | High smoke point, neutral taste | Avocado, vegetable, or canola oil |
How to Make It Step-by-Step
The process couldn’t be simplerit’s basically mix, cook, flip, and devour. After years of testing different techniques, I’ve learned that patience during the flip is everything.
Start by slicing your cabbage into thin ribbons and toss them into a mixing bowl. Crack in the eggs, add the salt and fresh dill, then stir until everything’s coated. Sprinkle the flour over the top and stir again until you have a cohesive mixturenot too wet, not too dry.
Heat your oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat (this part is crucialdon’t skip the non-stick pan). Add the cabbage mixture and press it down gently with a spoon until it’s about an inch thick. Cover with a lid and let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes. Use a plate to help flip it, then cook the second side another 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
| Step | Time | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Prep cabbage and mix ingredients | 5 minutes | Thin, even ribbons; well-combined mixture |
| First side cooking (covered) | 5-7 minutes | Golden brown edges, firm enough to flip |
| Second side cooking | 5-7 minutes | Crispy exterior, cooked through center |
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
A few small details make all the difference between a pancake that falls apart and one that holds together beautifully:
- Use a non-stick skillet: This isn’t the time to test out your vintage cast ironyou need that slick surface for an easy, intact flip.
- Don’t rush the flip: Wait until the bottom is truly golden and set before attempting to turn it. If you peek too early and it looks pale, give it another minute.
- Fresh herbs only: Dried dill just won’t deliver the same bright, punchy flavor that makes this cabbage pancake special.
- Keep it covered: The lid traps steam and helps cook the center through while the bottom crisps up.
How to Serve and Store
Straight from the skillet is peak deliciousness, but leftovers reheat surprisingly well. Serve it warm with a dollop of sour cream, a squeeze of lemon, or even a drizzle of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
For storage, let it cool completely, then wrap in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore some of that crispy texturemicrowaving works in a pinch but won’t give you those golden edges.
| Storage Method | How Long | Reheating Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (airtight) | Up to 3 days | Skillet over medium heat, 2-3 minutes per side |
| Freezer (wrapped well) | Up to 1 month | Thaw overnight, then reheat in skillet |
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How I Finally Perfected My Cabbage Pancake Recipe
I must have made this cabbage pancake a dozen times before getting the texture just right. The first few rounds came out soggy or fell apart in the pan, but I learned that squeezing out every bit of moisture from the cabbage makes all the difference. Now they’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and worth every failed attempt.
FAQs ( Cabbage Pancake )
What type of cabbage works best for this recipe?
Regular green cabbage is ideal because it holds its shape well when cooked and has the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. Napa cabbage works too but releases more water, so you’ll need to squeeze it thoroughly. Avoid red cabbage as it can bleed color into the batter.
How do I prevent the pancakes from falling apart?
The key is getting the right batter consistency – it should be thick enough to hold the cabbage together but not too dense. Make sure your pan is properly heated before adding the mixture. Press down gently with a spatula while cooking to help bind everything together.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to use the batter immediately after mixing for optimal texture. If you must prepare ahead, you can mix it up to 2 hours in advance and refrigerate. The cabbage will release more water as it sits, so you may need to drain excess liquid before cooking.
What oil temperature should I use for cooking?
Heat your oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. Test with a small drop of batter – it should sizzle immediately without burning. Too hot and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too cool and they’ll be greasy and soggy.
How long do leftovers stay fresh?
Store leftover pancakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy and chewy.

You’ll love how this cabbage pancake turns outcrispy on the edges, tender in the center, and ready in just 15 minutes. The aroma of caramelized cabbage and fresh dill fills your kitchen the moment it hits the skillet. Simple ingredients, serious comfort.
Try adding a squeeze of lemon right before servingit brightens everything beautifully. Leftover pancake reheats perfectly in a hot skillet; just a minute or two per side brings back that golden crunch. My abuela used to fold in shredded carrots for extra sweetness, and it works like magic every time.
If you make this, snap a photo and share it with meI’d love to see your version. Did your family have a favorite cabbage dish growing up? Let me know in the comments. Save this recipe for a busy weeknight when you need something warm, fast, and utterly satisfying.










