Introduction
This simple cabbage and peas stir fry is a light, everyday Indian-style vegetable dish made with minimal spices and fresh ingredients. It is commonly prepared as a quick lunch or dinner side, especially when a simple home-cooked meal is preferred.
The recipe works well for beginners because it uses straightforward techniques, short cooking time, and easily available vegetables. The gentle seasoning allows the natural sweetness of cabbage and peas to shine without overpowering flavours.
Recipe Information
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Serves: 3 to 4
Difficulty level: Easy
Ingredients
Vegetables:
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3 cups white cabbage, finely sliced
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½ cup green peas, fresh or frozen
For tempering:
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2 tablespoons oil
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½ teaspoon mustard seeds
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½ teaspoon cumin seeds
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8 to 10 curry leaves
Seasoning:
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¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
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1 green chilli, finely chopped
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Salt to taste
To finish:
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2 tablespoons fresh coriander, finely chopped
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Method
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Prepare all vegetables before starting cooking. Keep the cabbage sliced evenly so it cooks at the same speed.
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Heat oil in a wide pan on medium heat. Add mustard seeds and allow them to pop.
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Add cumin seeds and curry leaves, stirring for a few seconds until aromatic.
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Add the chopped green chilli and stir briefly to release heat into the oil.
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Add the sliced cabbage and green peas. Mix well so the vegetables are coated with oil.
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Sprinkle turmeric and salt evenly over the vegetables and stir gently.
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Cover the pan and cook on low to medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the cabbage softens but still holds its shape.
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Remove the lid and cook for another 2 minutes to evaporate any excess moisture.
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Turn off the heat. Add lemon juice and fresh coriander, mixing gently before serving.
Cooking Tips
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Do not add water, as cabbage releases its own moisture while cooking.
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Keep the heat moderate to avoid browning the cabbage too quickly.
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Slice the cabbage thinly for even cooking and a softer texture.
Variations
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Vegan: This dish is naturally vegan.
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Less spicy: Skip the green chilli or use half.
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South Indian flavour: Add a tablespoon of grated coconut at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cabbage and peas stir fry with chapati, plain rice, or as a side dish alongside dal. It is best enjoyed freshly cooked.
Storage and Reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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Reheat gently in a pan on low heat.
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This dish is not suitable for freezing due to cabbage texture changes.
