This tasty sausage and cabbage stir fry is perfect for a quick dinner! In just 30 minutes, you get a colorful mix of hearty sausage, crunchy cabbage, and yummy spices.
I like to serve this dish with some rice or noodles to soak up all that flavor. It’s a go-to for busy nights when I want something delicious without the long wait!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: I recommend kielbasa or andouille for great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage work well too. For a vegetarian alternative, use sliced portobello mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is perfect here, but you could also try Savoy or Napa cabbage for a different taste. If you’re not a fan of cabbage, shredded broccoli or bok choy can be tasty substitutes.
Onion: The onion adds great flavor. I love using red onions for a bit of sweetness. If you want to skip it, just add a bit more garlic for flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute if you’re in a rush. Use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove of fresh garlic you replace.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce gives a nice umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, tamari is perfect. You can also use coconut aminos for a milder taste.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Cabbage for Stir Fry?
Cooking cabbage until tender, yet crisp requires a bit of technique. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high to ensure quick cooking. This keeps the cabbage crunchy.
- Stir often while cooking to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking! Aim for 8-10 minutes, just when the cabbage starts to turn tender but still has a nice bite.
Remember, a splash of soy sauce and vinegar at the end really enhances the flavor and helps the cabbage absorb the seasoning! Enjoy your cooking!
Quick and Easy 30-Minute Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds (e.g., kielbasa or andouille)
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces (about 6 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy 30-minute meal from start to finish!
Detailed Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage to the pan and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Turn the sausage occasionally until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of oil. If you’re using onion, add it now and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it’s softened. Aromatic onion will really add depth to your dish!
3. Add Garlic and Seasoning:
Next, throw in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for another 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Cook the Cabbage:
Now, add your chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp. This veggie will soak up all the delicious flavors.
5. Bring it All Together:
Return the browned sausage slices back to the pan with the cabbage. Drizzle in the soy sauce and vinegar, and stir well to coat everything evenly. Let the mixture cook together for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors nicely.
6. Final Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your stir fry, and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the flavors based on your preference!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove your skillet from the heat. If you like, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving. This stir fry is fantastic served over steaming rice, noodles, or just on its own—enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal!
FAQ for Quick and Easy 30-Minute Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any smoked sausage you prefer, such as chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on your sausage type.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Yes! While cabbage is the star of this dish, you can also use other vegetables like kale, bok choy, or even bell peppers. Just ensure that any substitutes are chopped into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly for tenderness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to refresh it!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! To make this stir fry vegetarian, you can substitute the sausage with sliced portobello mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative. You may also increase the amount of cabbage or add other vegetables for extra flavor!
