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Savory Garlic Butter Cabbage Stir-Fry
Michelle Carter

Savory Garlic Butter Cabbage Stir-Fry (Easy Meatless Dinner)

This quick one-pan savory garlic butter cabbage stir-fry transforms humble cabbage into a rich, caramelized meatless dinner ready in just 25 minutes. Tender-crisp texture with bold garlic flavor—perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 165
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large head green cabbage (about 2–2.5 lbs), thinly sliced
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 6 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Large heavy skillet or wok Essential for even high-heat caramelization
  • Sharp knife For thin cabbage ribbons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Remove core from cabbage and slice into thin ribbons about ¼-inch thick.
  2. Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add cabbage ribbons, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir-fry 8–10 minutes until cabbage wilts and edges caramelize.
  5. Stir in soy sauce, lemon juice, and remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Cook 3–4 minutes more until tender-crisp and well coated.
  6. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve hot.

Notes

Use high heat for caramelized edges. Fresh garlic and real butter deliver the best flavor. Add a splash of water if pan gets too dry. Reheat in skillet to restore crispiness. Naturally vegetarian and easily vegan.