Cabbage with Fennel, Chilli & Garlic Recipe
Introduction
This simple yet flavorful cabbage dish combines the sweet crunch of cabbage with aromatic fennel, a touch of heat from chilli, and the savory bite of garlic. It’s a quick, satisfying side that brightens any meal with its subtle spices and vibrant texture.
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 chilli and cook for 1-2 minutes until the fennel seeds crackle and the garlic turns golden.
- Step 2: Add the cabbage wedges to the pan. It may look crowded at first, but the cabbage will start to wilt quickly.
- Step 3: Cook the cabbage for 3-4 minutes until the edges begin to brown slightly.
- Step 4: Increase the heat and pour about 50ml of water into the pan. Cover and steam-fry the cabbage until the water evaporates and the cabbage is tender but still holds its shape.
- Step 5: Transfer the cabbage to a serving dish and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the fennel seeds before adding oil.
- Swap red chilli for chilli flakes or fresh green chilli for a different heat profile.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds just before serving for added brightness and texture.
Storage
Store leftover cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to maintain texture and flavor, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular green cabbage instead of pointed or hispi cabbage?
Yes, regular green cabbage works well; just cut into similar-sized wedges to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have fennel seeds—can I omit them?
If fennel seeds aren’t available, the dish will still be tasty without them. You might try a pinch of caraway seeds as a substitute for a similar warm flavor.
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Cabbage with Fennel, Chilli & Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful sautéed cabbage dish featuring aromatic fennel seeds, spicy red chilli, and fragrant garlic. The cabbage is steam-fried to retain a slight crunch and a touch of caramelization, making it a perfect healthy side dish or light vegetarian main.
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 spices: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the fennel seeds, garlic slices, and red chilli to the pan. Sizzle for 1-2 minutes until the fennel seeds start to crackle and the garlic turns golden, releasing their aroma.
- Add the cabbage: Add the cabbage wedges to the pan. Don’t worry if the pan looks crowded as the cabbage will quickly begin to wilt with cooking.
- Cook and color the cabbage: Cook the cabbage for 3-4 minutes, allowing the edges to start colouring and caramelizing, which adds flavor.
- Steam-fry with water: Increase the heat to high and pour about 50ml of water into the pan. Cover or allow it to steam-fry for a few minutes until the water completely evaporates and the cabbage is tender but still holds its shape.
- Serve: Transfer the cabbage to a serving dish and enjoy immediately as a vibrant, flavorful side.
Notes
- The amount of chilli can be adjusted depending on your spice preference.
- Using pointed or hispi cabbage gives a delicate texture but other cabbages, like green or savoy, can be substituted.
- Ensure the garlic does not burn as it can turn bitter; keep the heat moderate at first.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end for a touch of acidity if desired.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or can be added to a vegetarian meal as a flavorful vegetable side.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European
Keywords: cabbage, fennel seeds, garlic, chilli, sautéed cabbage, steam-fried cabbage, vegetarian side dish
