Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the culinary journey hosted on Love With Recipes, where we explore innovative and flavorful ways to elevate everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes. Today, we delve into a vibrant, bold, and comforting stir-fry that combines the humble canned sardine with fresh cabbage and an array of aromatic spices and chilies. This Spicy Cabbage Stir-Fry with Canned Sardines, or as known in some regions “Kol Tumis Sarden Kaleng Pedas,” exemplifies how simple pantry staples can be transformed into a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and cultural richness. The recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also adaptable to various spice levels, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep. Whether you’re a seafood lover or seeking to incorporate more nutritious ingredients into your diet, this dish offers a satisfying balance of protein, fiber, and heat, wrapped in a satisfying vegetable base.

Time

The entire process from start to finish takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice when time is limited but flavor cannot be compromised. The preparation phase involves chopping and rinsing, which takes around 10 minutes, while the cooking process itself typically spans 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your stove’s heat and your desired doneness of the cabbage and sardines.

Needed Equipment

• Large wok or frying pan — essential for stir-frying and ensuring even heat distribution
• Cutting board — for chopping vegetables and aromatics
• Sharp chef’s knife — for slicing onions, garlic, chilies, and cabbage
• Can opener — to access the canned sardines
• Small bowl — for rinsing sardines and holding prepped ingredients
• Measuring spoons — for accurate addition of sauces and seasonings
• Measuring cups — for water and other liquid ingredients
• Spatula or wooden spoon — for stirring and mixing ingredients during cooking
• Grater or garlic press (optional) — for mincing garlic or ginger quickly
• Kitchen tongs — for handling sardines and turning vegetables

Tags

Seafood, Quick & Easy, Spicy, Stir-fry, Asian Cuisine, Healthy, Comfort Food, Budget-Friendly, Family-Friendly, Canned Sardines, Vegetarian-Friendly (with adjustments), Dinner, Lunch

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 3 to 4 servings, ideal for small families or meal prep portions. Each serving provides a generous portion of vegetables and sardines, balanced with spices and sauces that enhance the natural flavors. Adjust the quantities if cooking for larger groups or if you prefer smaller portions.

Difficulty Level

Moderate — this dish requires basic stir-frying skills, including chopping, sautéing, and seasoning. It is suitable for cooks with beginner to intermediate experience, especially those comfortable with handling spices and quick cooking techniques.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to vegetarian/vegan preferences by omitting sardines or substituting with plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh. It’s also low-carb and high-protein, suitable for those on keto or low-carb diets, provided sauces are checked for added sugars or gluten content.

Course

Main Course — a hearty, flavorful dish that can stand alone or be paired with rice or noodles. It also functions well as a side dish for larger meals.

Cuisine

Indonesian-inspired fusion with influences from Southeast Asian stir-fry traditions, particularly highlighting the use of chilies, aromatics, and seafood common in Indonesian and neighboring cuisines.

Ingredients in Tables

Note:

Adjust seasoning and spice levels based on personal preference and dietary needs. The ingredients listed are flexible, allowing you to customize the dish’s heat and sweetness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sardines

Begin by opening the can of sardines using a can opener. Rinse the sardines gently under cold running water to remove any excess brine, oil, or sauce. This step ensures that the sardines do not impart overly salty or fishy flavors to the dish. Once rinsed, drain thoroughly by tilting the can or placing the sardines in a fine-mesh strainer. Carefully transfer the sardines to a bowl or plate and set aside. If desired, you can lightly break the sardines into smaller pieces with a fork or chopsticks to facilitate mixing during cooking, but this is optional depending on your texture preference.

Step 2: Chop and Prepare Vegetables and Aromatics

Next, prepare your vegetables and aromatics. Using a sharp chef’s knife, thinly slice the yellow onion and shallot. Mince or crush the garlic using a garlic press or a knife. Slice the bird’s eye chilies and red chilies into thin rings or small pieces, depending on your heat tolerance. If you prefer milder heat, remove some seeds from the chilies before slicing. Chop the cabbage leaves into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 2 inches wide, to facilitate quick cooking and ease of eating. Smash or finely mince the ginger segments, and if using galangal, prepare similarly. Having all ingredients prepped and organized in bowls will streamline the cooking process and prevent delays once you start stir-frying.

Step 3: Heat the Pan and Sauté Aromatics

Place a large wok or frying pan over medium heat. Add enough cooking oil — approximately 2 to 3 tablespoons — to coat the surface generously. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully add the sliced onions, shallots, and minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté, stirring frequently, until fragrant and translucent, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. This aromatic base forms the foundation of the dish, releasing essential flavors and ensuring the subsequent ingredients are well-flavored.

Step 4: Incorporate Water and Spices

Pour in approximately 200 cc of water to the pan. This step helps create a steaming effect that softens the vegetables and disperses the flavors evenly. Add the smashed ginger and galangal slices, if using, along with the bay leaf. Stir well to incorporate the spices into the water and aromatics. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse the water and develop depth.

Step 5: Add Sauces and Adjust Spice Level

Next, introduce the chili sauce and tomato sauce. These can be adjusted based on your preferred spice and tanginess. For a spicier dish, add more chili sauce or include additional chopped chilies. For milder flavor, start with a teaspoon and taste as you go. Stir the sauces into the aromatic mixture, blending thoroughly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld and intensify. This step is crucial for building the characteristic spicy and savory profile of the dish.

Step 6: Gently Add Sardines and Cabbage

Carefully place the rinsed sardines into the pan, spreading them evenly across the mixture. Gently stir to combine, taking care not to break the sardines apart too much unless you prefer shredded sardines. Let the sardines heat through and absorb some of the flavors for about 2 minutes. Then, add the chopped cabbage leaves. The cabbage will wilt quickly but will also absorb the flavorful juices, resulting in a tender yet slightly crisp texture. Stir gently to incorporate the cabbage with the sardines and aromatics, and cook until the cabbage softens, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. The residual heat will also help meld the flavors and develop the dish’s aroma.

Step 7: Season and Finish

Finally, season the dish with salt and sugar to taste. The salt enhances the overall umami, while the sugar balances the heat and acidity from the sauces. Adjust these seasonings gradually, tasting as you go. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to marry. If the dish appears too dry, add a splash more water; if too watery, cook a little longer to reduce the liquid. Once satisfied with the flavor and texture, remove from heat.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the hot stir-fry to a serving plate or bowl. It is best enjoyed immediately to retain the vibrant flavors and textures. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even crusty bread if you prefer a more fusion-style presentation. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs such as cilantro or scallions if desired, adding a fresh note to the spicy, savory profile.

Preparation Tips

• Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic, ginger, and chilies provide the most vibrant flavors. Consider grating or crushing them for maximum aroma.
• Adjust spice levels: Always taste your sauces before adding to control heat. Remove seeds from chilies if you prefer milder spice.
• Choose quality sardines: Opt for good-quality canned sardines in olive oil or spring water for better flavor and texture.
• Control the texture of cabbage: If you prefer softer cabbage, extend cooking time slightly. For crunchier texture, keep cooking minimal.
• Use high heat for stir-frying: This ensures quick cooking and preserves the bright colors and flavors of the ingredients.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use canned sardines in oil: They tend to be more flavorful and moist, adding richness to the dish.
• Make your own chili sauce: Blend fresh chilies with garlic, salt, and vinegar for a homemade, preservative-free spicy sauce.
• Incorporate vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Control heat: Start with fewer chilies if unsure, then add more as needed to suit your spice tolerance.
• Balance flavors: The sugar balances the heat and acidity; taste and adjust accordingly.
• Meal prep: Prepare ingredients in advance, store in airtight containers, and stir-fry quickly when ready to serve.

Add-ons

• Fresh herbs such as cilantro, scallions, or Thai basil for garnish
• Sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables on the side
• Fried eggs or a fried sunny-side-up egg for added richness
• Crushed peanuts or fried shallots sprinkled on top for added texture
• Additional squeeze of lime or lemon for extra tang

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice
• Simple boiled or stir-fried noodles
• Crusty French bread or baguette slices
• Light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing
• Fresh fruit slices for a refreshing contrast

Improvements

• Incorporate fermented ingredients like kimchi or pickled vegetables for an extra tangy kick.
• Add a splash of coconut milk or cream for a richer, creamier consistency.
• Use different types of seafood such as mackerel or anchovies for variety.
• Experiment with different chili sauces or homemade spice blends for unique flavors.
• Include additional proteins such as tofu or tempeh for vegetarian options.

Save and Store

Allow the stir-fry to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Note that the texture of the cabbage may soften further upon storage, but the flavors will remain delicious. For longer storage, consider freezing in small portions, though note that texture may change slightly after thawing.

FAQ

Can I use fresh sardines instead of canned?

Yes, fresh sardines can be used. Clean and fillet them, then cook thoroughly before adding to the stir-fry. Canned sardines are more convenient and provide a consistent flavor profile.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute sardines with firm tofu, tempeh, or eggplant slices. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor, and omit fish-based ingredients.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness depends on the amount and type of chilies used. Adjust the number of bird’s eye chilies and red chilies to suit your heat preference. Always taste the sauces before adding.

What variations can I try?

Experiment with different vegetables, sauces, and proteins. For example, adding bell peppers, carrots, or bean sprouts enhances texture. Swapping chili sauce for curry paste creates Southeast Asian or Indonesian-inspired variations.

Conclusion

This Spicy Cabbage Stir-Fry with Canned Sardines exemplifies how minimal ingredients can come together to create a dish full of bold flavors, satisfying textures, and cultural richness. The combination of heat, umami, and freshness makes it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether served as a main or a hearty side, it’s guaranteed to delight your palate and impress your guests. Remember, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—feel free to tweak spice levels, add your favorite vegetables, or incorporate new ingredients to make it uniquely yours. For more innovative recipes and culinary tips, visit Love With Recipes and elevate your home cooking to new heights!