Quick Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce Delight

There’s nothing like the sizzle of fresh vegetables hitting a hot skillet. This Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce brings warmth and excitement to your table. It’s the perfect balance of spicy and tangy that everyone is raving about right now!

Imagine tender Napa cabbage tossed with zesty garlic and a kick of heat. What makes this dish special? It’s ready in under 15 minutes and uses all those pantry staples you always have on hand. Think of it as a modern twist on a cozy veggie side that packs a flavor punch like your favorite stir-fry.

I started making this quick dish last summer when I discovered how versatile cabbage can be. As the aroma filled the kitchen, my husband exclaimed, “This is restaurant-quality!” The secret? Letting the hot sauce bring it all together right at the end. I’ve shared this quick recipe countless times on the blog, and it’s always a hit!

Thomas Baker

Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce Recipe Must-Try

Discover the vibrant flavors of stir-fried napa cabbage with hot sour sauce, a simple yet flavorful dish that offers a perfect balance of spicy heat and tangy zest. This stir fried napa cabbage hot sour recipe delivers a crunchy texture with a punch of hot and sour napa cabbage sichuan style, ideal for a quick and delicious meal.

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Prep Time 4 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 minutes mins

Total Time 7 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Calories: 136

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 small Napa cabbage (Chinese cabbage), about 450 g/1 lbs
• 1½ tablespoon black rice vinegar
• 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
• 1 stalk scallions, finely chopped

Method

 

1. Begin by separating the Napa cabbage leaves and slicing them diagonally into bite-size pieces.
2. In a small bowl, combine the black rice vinegar, light soy sauce, optional dark soy sauce, starch, salt, sugar, and water; mix thoroughly and let it rest.
3. Heat a wok on high until it starts to smoke, then add cooking oil followed by garlic and dried chilies; stir quickly until aromatic but not burnt.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the wok, stir-frying until the leafy green parts soften while the white stems remain crisp.
5. Give the prepared sauce a final stir and pour it over the cabbage in the wok; toss in the scallions and mix well.
6. Continue cooking just until the sauce thickens and coats the cabbage evenly, then immediately remove from the heat and serve.

Notes

• For authentic flavor, use Zhenjiang (Chinkiang) black rice vinegar available in Chinese grocery stores. Adjust dried chili quantity to your preference for spiciness; fresh chilies can substitute if dried are unavailable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 7 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this cozy side dish, perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Kick: The hot sour sauce adds a delightful zing that makes even the simplest cabbage exciting!
• Healthful Crunch: Napa cabbage is packed with nutrients and offers a crunchy texture that makes this dish both satisfying and guilt-free.
• Versatile Side: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins, making it a fantastic addition to any meal.

Key Ingredients

Here’s what makes this Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce a simple yet stunning dish.

• Napa Cabbage: Tender yet crunchy, it soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Black Rice Vinegar: The star of the show, it offers a rich, tangy flavor that can’t be replaced.
• Dried Chilies: Just a few give the dish the perfect amount of heat adjust according to your taste!
• Garlic and Scallions: These aromatics impart incredible fragrance and depth to the stir-fry.

How It Works Step-by-Step

Here’s how to make your delicious stir-fried Napa cabbage in no time:

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Separate the leaves of the Napa cabbage, cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Sauce: Combine black rice vinegar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, tapioca starch, salt, sugar, and water in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry: Heat oil in a wok, toss in minced garlic and dried chilies until fragrant, then add the cabbage, cooking just until it wilts yet remains crunchy.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour in the prepared sauce, mix in the chopped scallions, and let it thicken slightly before serving. Yum!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Note: Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to suit your taste!

• Adjust Heat: Modify the number of dried chilies based on your spice preference. Use fewer if you’re looking for a milder flavor.
• Make it Heartier: Add proteins like tofu or shrimp for a complete meal.
• Seasonal Variations: Consider adding different seasonal veggies that you enjoy, such as bell peppers or carrots.

Serving and Storage Tips

Enjoy your stir-fried Napa cabbage right away for maximum crunch and flavor. If you have leftovers:

Final Thoughts

This Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce is not just a dish; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl that warms the heart and the taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side to impress, your family will love it. So, gather your ingredients and make this tonight I promise, you won’t regret it!

Expert Says

Stir-fried Napa cabbage with hot sour sauce is delicious and a nutritional powerhouse. Napa cabbage is rich in vitamins K and C, which support bone health and boost immunity. The quick stir-frying technique preserves these nutrients while enhancing the cabbage’s natural sweetness, making it a perfect complement to bold flavors.

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The Journey to Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce

This stir-fried Napa cabbage with hot sour sauce took a few attempts to get just right. I remember one batch turning out too soggy, but with each try, the bright, tangy flavors became sharper and more balanced. Now, it’s a comforting dish that brings a taste of home to my table, and I can’t wait for you to try it.

FAQs ( Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce )

Conclusion

Your Stir-fried Napa Cabbage with Hot Sour Sauce is ready in under 15 minutes, filling your kitchen with warmth and a little spice. You’ll love how the tender, crunchy cabbage dances with zesty flavors. It’s comfort food made easy!

Feel free to toss in some protein or seasonal veggies for a personalized twist. A tip I picked up from my grandma: store any leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy them the next day it’s just as delicious warmed up!

I’d love to see how yours turns out! Did dishes like this grace your family table growing up? Share your thoughts, or save this recipe for friends who deserve a taste of coziness. Happy cooking!