Stir-Fried Spiced Cabbage (La-Pai-Ts’ai)
Overview
Stir-Fried Spiced Cabbage, known in Chinese as La-Pai-Ts’ai, is a vibrant and flavorful vegetable dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Infused with a delightful blend of spices, this dish is perfect for those seeking a quick yet satisfying side. The notable kick from the cayenne pepper elevates the flavor profile, making it a favorite in our household. This recipe draws inspiration from the classic Time-Life Foods of the World Series, specifically “The Cooking of China.”
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bok choy | 1 |
| Green cabbage | 2 |
| Sugar | 2 tsp |
| White vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 77.2 |
| Total Fat | 3.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 843.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10.3 g |
| Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 1.9 g |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 3 minutes |
| Total Time | 23 minutes |
Instructions
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Prepare the Cabbage: Begin by selecting a fresh head of cabbage. Using a sharp knife, carefully trim away the top leaves and thoroughly wash the cabbage to remove any dirt or impurities.
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Cut the Cabbage: After washing, chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 by 2 inches, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
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Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sugar, white vinegar, soy sauce, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir the mixture vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved and all ingredients are well blended.
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Heat the Wok: Place a wok or a large frying pan over high heat and allow it to warm for about 30 seconds. This pre-heating is crucial for achieving that delightful stir-fried texture.
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Add the Oil: Once the wok is heated, pour in the vegetable oil. Swirl the oil around the pan to coat the surface evenly and heat for an additional 30 seconds.
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Stir-Fry the Cabbage: Reduce the heat to moderate, then add the chopped cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry the cabbage for about 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring that all pieces are coated with the hot oil for a perfect stir-fried finish.
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Combine with Sauce: Once the cabbage is tender yet still crisp, remove the pan from the heat. Pour the prepared soy-vinegar mixture over the cabbage and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the stir-fried cabbage to a serving platter. Allow it to cool to a lukewarm temperature before serving. This dish can also be enjoyed chilled, making it versatile for various dining occasions.
Serving Suggestions
Stir-Fried Spiced Cabbage pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, including grilled proteins or can be enjoyed as a standalone vegan option. Its vibrant colors and enticing flavors make it a perfect addition to a buffet or potluck, enticing both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
With its ease of preparation and delightful flavors, this Stir-Fried Spiced Cabbage dish is sure to become a beloved recipe in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re serving it warm or cold, its unique taste and healthful ingredients will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
