Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's also bursting with flavor and vibrant color? Look no further! This fried purple cabbage recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. It’s surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks, and it packs a delightful crunch that complements a wide range of main courses. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this stunning and tasty dish! This recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy healthy meals, making it perfect for quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Cabbage: Begin by thinly slicing the purple cabbage. The thinner the slices, the quicker and more evenly they'll cook. Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
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Add the Cabbage: Add the sliced purple cabbage to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the cabbage with the oil and aromatics.
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Cook the Cabbage: Cook the cabbage for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's tender-crisp. You want it to still retain a bit of a bite, not to become mushy.
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Finish the Dish: Stir in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together. The vinegar will add a delightful tang, while the brown sugar will balance the acidity for a perfectly sweet and sour dish.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately as a delicious and vibrant side dish alongside your favorite protein and starch.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Feel free to experiment with other spices. A pinch of caraway seeds, cumin, or smoked paprika would add a unique twist.
- Make it vegetarian: Add some crumbled vegetarian bacon or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Add protein: Cook some crumbled sausage or bacon along with the onions for a heartier side.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, omit the brown sugar entirely.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the cabbage ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is relatively low in calories and high in vitamins and fiber. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a typical serving provides approximately:
- Calories: 100-150
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 4-6g
This fried purple cabbage recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and delicious dishes that are also healthy. It’s a simple yet impressive side dish perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Enjoy!