Spicy Fennel and Garlic Sautéed Cabbage Recipe
Introduction
This simple and flavorful recipe combines cabbage, fennel, garlic, and chilli for a warm, vibrant side dish. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for adding a spicy, aromatic touch to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 bulb of fennel, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 fresh red chilli, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chilli and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 2: Add the sliced fennel and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Step 3: Stir in the shredded cabbage and sauté for another 5-7 minutes, stirring regularly until the vegetables are tender but still retain a slight crunch.
- Step 4: Season generously with salt and pepper, mix well, and serve warm as a side dish.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder dish, remove the seeds from the chilli before chopping.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Try sprinkling toasted pine nuts or almonds on top for added texture.
- Use a mix of green and red cabbage for a colorful presentation.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking when reheating to maintain texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried chilli instead of fresh?
Yes, dried chilli flakes can be used as a substitute. Add them with the garlic early in cooking, starting with a small amount to control the heat level.
Is it necessary to use fennel in this recipe?
Fennel adds a unique anise-like flavor that complements the cabbage and chilli, but if you don’t have it, you can omit it or substitute with thinly sliced onion or celery for a different but still tasty result.
PrintSpicy Fennel and Garlic Sautéed Cabbage Recipe
A flavorful and simple sautéed cabbage dish enhanced with the aromatic sweetness of fennel, the pungency of garlic, and a spicy kick from fresh chilli. Perfect as a warm, healthy side dish or a light vegetarian meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium fennel bulb, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 fresh red chillies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the cabbage and fennel bulb, mince the garlic cloves, and finely chop the chilli peppers, adjusting the quantity according to your preferred spice level.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or sauté pan, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add minced garlic and chopped chilli to the pan, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add fennel and cabbage: Toss in the sliced fennel and cabbage, stirring well to combine with the garlic and chilli. Continue to sauté, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but still have a slight crunch.
- Season: Season the sautéed vegetables generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Serve warm: Remove from heat and serve immediately as a warm, flavorful side dish or light vegetarian main.
Notes
- Adjust chilli quantity for milder or spicier taste.
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of toasted fennel seeds before serving.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal.
- Use a sturdy skillet or sauté pan for best results to evenly cook the vegetables.
Keywords: cabbage fennel sauté garlic chilli side dish vegetarian easy healthy quick recipe
