Cabbage with Fennel, Chilli & Garlic Recipe
Introduction
This simple and flavorful cabbage dish combines the sweet crunch of cabbage with the aromatic warmth of fennel seeds, the punch of chilli, and the savory depth of garlic. It’s a quick, vibrant side that brightens any meal and is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients.
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
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the fennel seeds, garlic, and red chilli, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the seeds start to crackle and the garlic turns golden.
- Step 2: Add the cabbage wedges to the pan. Don’t worry if they seem too large for the pan at first, as they will begin to wilt quickly. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the edges of the cabbage to brown slightly.
- 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 evaporates and the cabbage has wilted but still holds its shape.
- Step 4: Transfer the cabbage to a serving dish and serve warm as a delicious side.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder heat, reduce the amount of chilli or remove the seeds before slicing.
- Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra brightness and texture.
- To boost the flavor, toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or coriander just before serving.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the cabbage moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use green or savoy cabbage, though cooking times might vary slightly. Pointed or hispi cabbage works best for a tender texture.
What can I substitute for fennel seeds?
If you don’t have fennel seeds, you can try anise seeds or caraway seeds, but the flavor will be different. Alternatively, omit them for a simpler taste.
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Cabbage with Fennel, Chilli & Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2–3 as a side dish 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful sautéed cabbage dish enhanced with aromatic fennel seeds, spicy red chilli, and fragrant garlic. This recipe uses a steam-fry technique to soften the cabbage while retaining a delightful crunch and subtle caramelized edges, making it a perfect side for any meal.
Ingredients
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
- Heat the oil and fennel seeds: Place a large frying pan or wok over medium heat, then add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tsp fennel seeds. Sizzle them for 1-2 minutes until the fennel seeds start to crackle, releasing their aroma.
- Add garlic and chilli: Add the finely sliced garlic clove and half a finely sliced red chilli to the pan. Cook for a further 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns golden and fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add the cabbage: Add the 6 wedges of pointed or hispi cabbage to the pan. It may seem overcrowded at first, but the cabbage will begin to wilt quickly.
- Sauté the cabbage: Cook the cabbage for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges start to color and caramelize.
- Steam-fry the cabbage: Increase the heat and pour about 50ml of water into the pan. Cover and allow the cabbage to steam-fry for a few minutes until all the water has evaporated. The cabbage should be wilted but still retain its shape and slight crunch.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked cabbage to a serving dish and enjoy warm as a delicious vegetable side.
Notes
- Use a pointed or hispi cabbage for a sweeter, more delicate flavor and tender texture.
- Adjust the amount of red chilli to your preferred level of heat or omit it for a milder dish.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will impart a bitter taste; cook it until just golden.
- If you don’t have a lid for your pan, you can loosely cover it with foil when steaming the cabbage.
- This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or can be enjoyed as a light vegetarian side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: cabbage recipe, fennel seeds, garlic, chilli, vegetarian side dish, stovetop cooking, steam-fry cabbage
