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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
