Cabbage with Fennel, Chilli & Garlic Recipe

Introduction

This vibrant cabbage dish is enhanced with fragrant fennel seeds, a touch of chilli, and garlic for a flavorful and slightly spicy side. Quick to prepare, it’s a perfect way to add interest to humble cabbage and pairs beautifully with many main courses.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 garlic clove, finely sliced
• ½ red chilli, finely sliced
• 1 pointed or hispi cabbage, cut into 6 wedges

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the fennel seeds, garlic, and chilli, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the fennel seeds start to crackle and the garlic turns golden.
2. Step 2: Add the cabbage wedges to the pan. It may seem crowded at first, but the cabbage will soon start to wilt. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges begin to color.
3. Step 3: Increase the heat and pour about 50ml of water into the pan. Cover and steam-fry the cabbage for a few minutes until the water has evaporated and the cabbage has wilted but still holds its shape.
4. Step 4: Transfer the cooked cabbage to a serving dish and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder flavor, remove the chilli seeds before slicing or reduce the amount used.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar before serving to brighten the flavors.
• Try substituting pointed cabbage with savoy cabbage for a different texture.
• If you prefer extra crunch, sauté the cabbage for less time before steaming.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to maintain the cabbage’s texture. Avoid microwaving for best results.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cabbage for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cabbage varieties like savoy or green cabbage. Just adjust cooking time slightly as some types may take a bit longer to wilt.

What can I serve this cabbage dish with?

This flavorful cabbage works well alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a vegetarian meal with grains like rice or quinoa.

Cabbage with Fennel, Chilli & Garlic Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 110 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A vibrant and flavorful side dish featuring tender cabbage steamed and stir-fried with aromatic fennel seeds, spicy red chilli, and golden garlic slices in olive oil. This quick and easy recipe brings a delightful balance of mild heat and spice to tender, slightly caramelized cabbage wedges, perfect as a healthy accompaniment to any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 pointed or hispi cabbage, cut into 6 wedges
• ½ red chilli, finely sliced
• 1 garlic clove, finely sliced

Spices & Oils

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp fennel seeds

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Instructions

1. Heat the Oil and Toast Spices: Warm the olive oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the fennel seeds, finely sliced garlic, and sliced red chilli. Sizzle these aromatics for 1 to 2 minutes until the fennel seeds begin to crackle and the garlic turns a golden color, releasing their fragrance into the oil.
2. Add the Cabbage Wedges: Place the cabbage wedges into the pan. It might seem crowded at first, but as the cabbage cooks, it will wilt and create space. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the cabbage edges to develop a light golden color.
3. Steam-Fry the Cabbage: Increase the heat and pour about 50ml of water into the pan. Cover if possible, and let the cabbage steam-fry for a few more minutes until the water has fully evaporated. The cabbage should be wilted but still retain its shape and some crunch.
4. Serve: Transfer the cabbage to a serving dish immediately to maintain its texture and vibrant flavor. Enjoy warm as a side dish.

Notes

• Use a pointed or hispi cabbage for the best texture and flavor, but you can substitute with green cabbage if needed.
• Adjust the amount of red chilli based on your preferred spice level.
• For a nuttier flavor, you can lightly toast the fennel seeds beforehand separately before adding them to the oil.
• Be sure not to overcook the cabbage to keep a satisfying bite and vibrant color.
• This recipe pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: European

Keywords: cabbage recipe, fennel seeds, garlic, chili, side dish, vegetarian, quick recipe, healthy vegetables