Cabbage Fry
A quick, crunchy, and lightly spiced cabbage stir-fry, perfect as an everyday Indian side dish. This simple and healthy sabzi, also known as Cabbage Poriyal, comes together in under 20 minutes and pairs beautifully with dal and roti.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 12 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Cabbage
- b.Rinse the head of cabbage thoroughly under cold running water.
- c.Remove the tough outer leaves and the core. Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or a food processor. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
- b.Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop in one mustard seed; it should sizzle immediately.
- c.Add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter completely, which should take about 30-40 seconds.
- d.Reduce the heat to low, then add the urad dal and chana dal. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring continuously, until they turn a light golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
- e.Add the broken dry red chillies, curry leaves, and hing. Sauté for another 30 seconds until the curry leaves turn crisp and aromatic.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Cabbage
- b.Add the slit green chillies and the shredded cabbage to the pan.
- c.Sprinkle the turmeric powder and salt over the cabbage.
- d.Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring the cabbage is well-coated with the tempering and spices.
- e.Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low to medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Do not add any water; the cabbage will cook in its own moisture.
- f.Stir once or twice in between to ensure even cooking and prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
- g.Cook until the cabbage is tender but still retains a slight crunch. Avoid overcooking, as it can become mushy.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Add the grated coconut (if using) and finely chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Give it a final gentle mix to combine.
- d.Serve the cabbage fry hot as a side dish with roti, chapati, or alongside rice and dal.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, ensure the cabbage is tender-crisp, not soft and mushy. The total cooking time after covering is usually just 5-7 minutes.
- 2Shredding the cabbage finely helps it cook faster and more evenly.
- 3The chana dal and urad dal are key to the authentic texture, providing a delightful crunch in every bite. Don't skip them if possible.
- 4For a slight tang, squeeze a teaspoon of lemon juice over the dish just before serving.
- 5Do not add any water while cooking. The moisture released from the cabbage is sufficient to cook it.
- 6Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped carrots or 1/4 cup of green peas along with the cabbage for added color, nutrition, and flavor.
Spice it UpSpice it Up
For a different flavor profile, add 1/2 teaspoon of sambar powder or vangi bath powder along with the turmeric powder.
Add OnionsAdd Onions
Sauté one finely chopped onion after the tempering until translucent, before adding the cabbage, for a sweeter base.
Nutty FlavorNutty Flavor
Add a tablespoon of roasted and coarsely crushed peanuts along with the coconut at the end for extra crunch and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Aids in Digestion
Cabbage is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes regular bowel movements and supports a healthy digestive tract.
Low in Calories
With approximately 115 calories per serving, this dish is ideal for weight management and those looking for light yet filling meal options.
Rich in Vitamin C & K
Cabbage is packed with Vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system, and Vitamin K, which is crucial for blood clotting and bone health.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Both cabbage and turmeric contain compounds with anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Cabbage Fry (approximately 1 cup) contains around 110-120 calories, making it a light and healthy side dish.
