Looking for creative and easy cabbage dinner ideas? Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of Napa cabbage soup recipe or trying to explore different ways to cook cabbage, you’ve come to the right place! These cabbage recipes are not only delicious but also versatile, offering you a range of options for cabbage meals dinners that fit any occasion.
From easy cabbage side dishes to hearty cabbage recipes easy enough for a quick meal, you’ll find plenty of meals with cabbage to satisfy your taste buds. This collection includes everything from shredded cabbage recipes to flavorful vegetable sides that bring out the best in your favorite veggie. Looking for easy vegetable side dish ideas? These recipes using Napa cabbage will give you just that, with cooked cabbage recipes that are perfect for any night of the week.
So, if you’ve been wondering what to do with cabbage, check out these Napa cabbage recipes that are sure to inspire your next meal!
1. Stir-Fried Napa Cabbage with Garlic
This dish is super quick and easy—perfect for busy days when you need something healthy and light. I love how the garlic makes the cabbage taste so flavorful without overpowering it. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cabbage in your fridge. It’s simple, but trust me, it hits the spot.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium Napa cabbage, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the chopped Napa cabbage and stir well.
- Add soy sauce, sesame oil (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Serve warm with rice or as a side dish.
2. Napa Cabbage and Carrot Coleslaw
Coleslaw, but make it a little fancy with Napa cabbage! This one’s great for potlucks or just to serve with burgers. The crunch of the cabbage and carrots mixed with the creamy dressing is just so satisfying. My kids love this, even my picky eater.
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 small Napa cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving.
3. Spicy Napa Cabbage Kimchi
If you’ve never made kimchi before, don’t worry! It’s not as hard as it seems. I love making a batch of this and letting it ferment—it only gets better with time. And the spice? Oh, it’s so addictive.
- Servings: 8 (makes a medium jar)
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Fermentation Time: 2-7 days
Ingredients:
- 1 medium Napa cabbage
- ¼ cup kosher salt
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp Korean red chili flakes (gochugaru)
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions:
- Chop the Napa cabbage into large chunks and rinse under cold water.
- Dissolve salt in water and soak the cabbage for 2 hours. Drain and rinse.
- In a bowl, mix ginger, garlic, chili flakes, fish sauce, and sugar.
- Massage the spice paste into the cabbage until evenly coated.
- Pack tightly into a jar, pressing down to remove air pockets.
- Leave at room temperature for 2-3 days to ferment, then store in the fridge.
4. Napa Cabbage and Tofu Soup
This soup is my go-to for chilly evenings or when someone in the house isn’t feeling well. It’s warm, light, and super comforting. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the tofu, so it keeps you full without feeling heavy.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium Napa cabbage, chopped
- 1 block of firm tofu, cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add grated ginger and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add chopped Napa cabbage and tofu cubes.
- Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
5. Steamed Napa Cabbage Rolls with Chicken Filling
These cabbage rolls are so fun to make, and they look fancy, too! They’re like little presents stuffed with flavorful chicken. My family always thinks I spent hours on them, but they’re easier than they look!
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 large Napa cabbage leaves
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Blanch the cabbage leaves for 1-2 minutes, then set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ground chicken, onion, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Place a small scoop of the chicken mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf and roll tightly.
- Place the rolls in a steamer and cook for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
- Serve with a side of soy sauce for dipping.
6. Napa Cabbage Fried Rice
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice. The Napa cabbage adds a nice crunch, and the dish comes together so quickly. It’s great as a main dish or a side for stir-fries.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 small Napa cabbage, chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Push garlic to one side and scramble the eggs on the other side of the pan.
- Toss in chopped Napa cabbage and carrot, cooking for 3-4 minutes.
- Add cooked rice, soy sauce, and mix well.
- Cook for another 3 minutes, garnish with green onion, and serve hot.
7. Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing
This salad is one of my favorite sides for grilled chicken or fish. It’s light, crunchy, and the sesame dressing is so good, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 small Napa cabbage, shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
For the dressing:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, bell pepper, and carrot.
- In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
8. Vegetarian Napa Cabbage Dumplings
Making dumplings at home is so satisfying, especially when they’re packed with healthy veggies. These little bites are perfect for steaming, frying, or adding to soups. My kids love helping me fold them—it’s messy, but so fun!
- Servings: 4 (makes about 20 dumplings)
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Napa cabbage, finely chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 20 dumpling wrappers
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix Napa cabbage, mushrooms, carrot, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Wet the edges with water, fold the wrapper in half, and press to seal.
- Steam the dumplings for 8-10 minutes or pan-fry until golden and crispy.
- Serve with soy sauce for dipping.
9. Braised Napa Cabbage with Soy Sauce
This dish is pure comfort food. The cabbage gets soft and flavorful as it soaks up the sauce. It’s a great side dish for rice or noodles, and it’s ready in no time!
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium Napa cabbage, chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Toss in the chopped cabbage and stir well.
- Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and vegetable broth.
- Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
10. Napa Cabbage and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is light, fresh, and packed with protein. Shrimp and Napa cabbage are a match made in heaven. This one’s great for when you need dinner on the table in under 20 minutes.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium Napa cabbage, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for sauce)
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
- Toss in shrimp and cook until pink, about 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add Napa cabbage and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes.
- Return shrimp to the pan, add soy sauce, and toss well.
- If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir it in. Cook for 1 minute, then serve.
11. Napa Cabbage Pancakes
These savory pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re a hit for breakfast, lunch, or even as a snack. Plus, you can customize them with whatever veggies you have on hand.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Napa cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- ½ cup water
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix flour, egg, water, and soy sauce into a smooth batter.
- Add shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and green onions, and mix well.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Pour a ladleful of the batter into the pan and spread into a pancake.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
12. Napa Cabbage and Egg Drop Soup
This soup is so simple, but it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The silky egg ribbons and soft Napa cabbage make it extra comforting.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium Napa cabbage, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 green onion, chopped
Instructions:
- Bring the broth to a boil in a large pot.
- Add chopped Napa cabbage and soy sauce, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs while stirring to create ribbons.
- Remove from heat, drizzle with sesame oil, and garnish with green onion.
- Serve immediately.
13. Napa Cabbage Wraps with Ground Beef
These wraps are a fun and healthier twist on traditional tacos. The Napa cabbage leaves make a perfect crunchy base for the savory beef filling. My kids enjoy customizing their wraps with toppings like shredded cheese or salsa.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 large Napa cabbage leaves
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pan, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Season with soy sauce, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Spoon the beef mixture into cabbage leaves and serve warm.
14. Napa Cabbage Stir-Fry with Mushrooms
This is my go-to when I’m in the mood for something earthy and hearty but still light. The mushrooms pair perfectly with the tender Napa cabbage, and it’s a great dish to serve over rice.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium Napa cabbage, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
- Heat sesame oil in a wok or large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Toss in the mushrooms and stir-fry until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add Napa cabbage and soy sauce, stirring well. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1 more minute until the sauce thickens.
- Serve warm as a side or main dish.
15. Napa Cabbage and Chickpea Curry
This curry is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. The soft Napa cabbage and tender chickpeas soak up all the spices beautifully. It’s a great plant-based meal that even meat-lovers will enjoy.
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 medium Napa cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add Napa cabbage, chickpeas, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Season with salt, and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cabbage is a wonderfully versatile vegetable that can be used in so many ways to create delicious and healthy meals. Whether you’re looking for easy cabbage recipes or new cabbage dinner ideas, you’ve got plenty of options to explore. From Napa cabbage soup recipes to shredded cabbage recipes, these cabbage meals dinners are sure to please everyone at the table.
You can make everything from a simple cabbage side dish to a hearty meal with cooked cabbage, offering you different ways to cook cabbage. If you’re looking for quick cabbage recipes, or even easy vegetable side dish ideas, these cabbage recipes easy to prepare will make mealtime a breeze. So, whether you’re in the mood for Napa cabbage recipes or searching for what to do with cabbage, these recipes will have you covered with recipes using Napa cabbage, cabbage vegetable dishes, and more.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to meals with cabbage, so start experimenting with these tasty cabbage dinner recipes today!
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