Are you looking for a versatile ingredient to add some crunch and flavor to your dishes? Look no further than Chinese cabbage! Also known as Napa cabbage or pak choi, this Asian staple is a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. Its mild flavor and crunchy texture make it an excellent addition to a wide range of recipes, from soups and salads to stir-fries and braises.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Chinese cabbage recipes that are perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to impress. From classic Sichuan dishes like spicy salads and stir-fries, to comforting soups and braises, we’ve got you covered. So grab your wok or Dutch oven, and get ready to unleash the flavor of Chinese cabbage!
Stir-Fried Chinese Cabbage with Garlic
This quick and flavorful recipe is a great way to enjoy the crisp, sweet taste of Chinese cabbage with the pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced Chinese cabbage and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
4. Continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Pork Dumplings
These tender and flavorful dumplings are a staple of Chinese cuisine, filled with a savory mix of pork, cabbage, and aromatics. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 1/2 cup finely chopped Chinese cabbage (or bok choy)
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
2. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
3. Roll out each ball of dough into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
4. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
5. Cook dumplings by steaming for 10-12 minutes or pan-frying with oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sichuan Chinese Cabbage Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of cabbage with the bold flavors of Sichuan pepper and chili oil, perfect for a quick and spicy snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage (napa), thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup crispy fried shallots (store-bought or homemade)
– 2-3 teaspoons Sichuan chili oil (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cabbage and soy sauce. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5 minutes to help tenderize it.
2. Add rice vinegar, Gochujang, toasted Sichuan peppercorns, scallions, and fried shallots. Toss to combine.
3. Drizzle Sichuan chili oil over the salad and toss again. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Tofu Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple in many Chinese households. Made with tender tofu, crunchy cabbage, and savory broth, it’s a perfect meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of Chinese cabbage, chopped
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage, broth, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Chinese Cabbage with Mushrooms
This comforting side dish combines the sweetness of cabbage with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cabbage, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chinese Cabbage Kimchi
Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, usually cabbage or radishes, and seasoned with chili peppers, garlic, and other spices. This recipe makes a delicious and spicy kimchi using Chinese cabbage (also known as Napa cabbage) that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs Chinese cabbage, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons coarse salt
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix cabbage and coarse salt. Massage for 5 minutes to release juices.
2. Rinse cabbage with cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a blender or food processor, blend chili flakes, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and water until smooth.
4. Combine blended mixture with cabbage. Mix well to coat.
5. Pack kimchi into a jar, pressing down firmly to remove air pockets. Leave 1 inch of space at the top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (fermented)
Chinese Cabbage and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This simple yet flavorful stir-fry combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with the sweetness of shrimp, all in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lunchtime treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the garlic for 30 seconds.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the shrimp to the pan and pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Chinese Cabbage Rolls with Minced Pork
Transform a humble cabbage into a delicious and nutritious meal with these easy-to-make steamed rolls filled with savory minced pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup minced pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for steaming
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage slices, minced pork, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well.
2. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the pork-cabbage mixture in the center of the leaf.
3. Fold the bottom half of the leaf up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
4. Place the rolls seam-side down in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper. Brush with vegetable oil.
5. Steam the rolls over boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Egg Drop Soup
This classic Chinese soup is a staple of many Asian cuisines, combining the crunch of fresh cabbage with the creamy texture of egg drop. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth and water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add sliced Chinese cabbage. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Stir in the beaten eggs gently, allowing them to cook into thin, egg-drop-like strands.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pickled Chinese Cabbage with Chili
A refreshing twist on traditional pickling, this recipe combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with a spicy kick from chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (30 g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon pickling spice blend
– 1-2 dried Thai chili peppers, crushed or 1-2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cabbage, white vinegar, water, sugar, pickling spice blend, and crushed chilies.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. After 24 hours, refrigerate the pickled cabbage for at least 30 minutes before serving.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (including sitting time)
Chinese Cabbage and Glass Noodle Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with the chewy texture of glass noodles, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish. With its simplicity and flavor, it’s a great addition to any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head Chinese cabbage, shredded
– 100g glass noodles (cellophane noodles)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded Chinese cabbage, cooked glass noodles, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooking time)
Chinese Cabbage and Chicken Hot Pot
A comforting and flavorful hot pot that combines tender chicken, crunchy Chinese cabbage, and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Chinese cabbage (Napa cabbage), chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Bacon Stir-Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired stir-fry that combines the crunch of fresh cabbage with the smoky flavor of bacon, all in just a few quick minutes. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an addition to your favorite takeout.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of Chinese cabbage (about 2 lbs), thinly sliced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced Chinese cabbage to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender.
5. Return the cooked bacon to the pan and stir in the soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
This refreshing slaw is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes, adding a satisfying crunch and burst of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this tasty side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized Chinese cabbage (about 2 cups), thinly sliced
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced Chinese cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (mostly hands-off time)
Chinese Cabbage and Beef Stew
This hearty stew combines tender beef, crunchy Chinese cabbage, and savory soy sauce for a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups Chinese cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage; cook until slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the beef to the pot along with soy sauce and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Chinese Cabbage and Scallion Pancakes
These savory pancakes are a popular street food in China, filled with the pungency of scallions and the crunch of cabbage. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage (Bok Choy), finely chopped
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cabbage, scallions, flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil and flatten slightly.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain pancakes on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Wood Ear Mushroom Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the crunch of Chinese cabbage with the earthy sweetness of wood ear mushrooms, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and sliced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced Chinese cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the wood ear mushrooms and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
5. Pour the sauce over the cabbage and mushrooms, stirring to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Cabbage and Corn Porridge
Warm up with this hearty and comforting porridge, perfect for a chilly winter evening. This simple yet flavorful dish combines the sweetness of corn with the crunch of Chinese cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Chinese cabbage, chopped
– 2 cups of water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chopped Chinese cabbage and stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until slightly softened.
4. Pour in the water or broth, bringing to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, add corn kernels, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the porridge has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 mouth-watering Chinese cabbage recipes! From savory stir-fries and soups to spicy salads and braises, there’s something for every occasion. Try classic combinations like Chinese Cabbage and Pork Dumplings or Braised Chinese Cabbage with Mushrooms. Or add a twist with Spicy Sichuan Chinese Cabbage Salad or Chinese Cabbage Kimchi. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something quick and easy, this diverse collection of recipes is sure to please.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
