10 Delicious Recipes Featuring Napa Cabbage

Napa cabbage is a versatile and crunchy veggie that can add a refreshing twist to your meals. From simple salads to hearty stir-fries, this leafy green pairs well with a variety of flavors and ingredients, making it a fun addition to your cooking repertoire. Get ready to whip up some tasty dishes that highlight its unique texture and taste!

Napa Cabbage and Mushroom Soup

Napa cabbage and mushroom soup is a warm, comforting dish that brings a delightful blend of flavors. The crispness of napa cabbage pairs perfectly with the earthy tones of mushrooms, resulting in a soothing bowl that’s perfect for any time of year. This recipe is simple to make and can be whipped up in no time, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight meal.

The broth is light yet flavorful, allowing the natural tastes of the ingredients to shine through. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or just something cozy to enjoy, this soup fits the bill. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate napa cabbage into your meals, showcasing its versatility in recipes using napa cabbage.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 4 cups napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Add the chopped napa cabbage and soy sauce, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

Savory Napa Cabbage Rolls

Savory Napa cabbage rolls are a delightful dish that combines tender cabbage leaves with a flavorful filling. These rolls offer a hearty taste that balances savory and slightly sweet notes, making each bite a comforting experience. They are simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, so anyone can whip them up in no time.

This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the filling to suit your preferences, whether you prefer meat, grains, or even a vegetarian option. These Napa cabbage rolls make for an amazing family meal or a cozy dinner with friends. Serve them with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad to complete the experience!

Ingredients

• 1 large head of Napa cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the leaves from the Napa cabbage and blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls: Take a cabbage leaf, place a generous spoonful of the filling at the base, and roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
4. Cook the Rolls: Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce over the top, covering all the rolls. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your savory Napa cabbage rolls hot!

Napa Cabbage Stir-Fry with Tofu

Napa cabbage stir-fry with tofu is a delightful dish that combines crisp cabbage and soft, savory tofu. This recipe highlights the mild sweetness of napa cabbage and the protein-packed goodness of tofu, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. It’s simple to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick lunch.

The stir-fry comes together quickly, allowing the fresh ingredients to shine. With a few seasonings, this dish bursts with flavor and is sure to please both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 head napa cabbage, chopped
• 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Add Cabbage: Toss in the chopped napa cabbage and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, until it begins to wilt.
4. Combine: Return the tofu to the pan, add soy sauce, and mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with chopped green onions. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Enjoy hot over rice or noodles!

Napa Cabbage Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Napa cabbage slaw with peanut dressing is a delightful and refreshing dish that packs a punch of flavor. The crispness of the cabbage pairs beautifully with the creamy, nutty dressing, creating a perfect balance. It’s a simple recipe, making it ideal for quick meals or as a side dish for gatherings.

This slaw is not only easy to whip up but also provides a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory flavors. The peanut dressing adds richness, while sesame seeds and crushed peanuts lend an extra layer of texture. Enjoy this slaw as a light lunch or serve it alongside grilled meats for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 1 small head of napa cabbage, shredded
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Water to thin the dressing if needed

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded napa cabbage, carrot, red bell pepper, green onions, and half of the peanuts and sesame seeds. Toss gently to mix.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add a little water to achieve desired consistency.
3. Pour the peanut dressing over the slaw and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Top with the remaining peanuts and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your slaw fresh for the best crunch!

Napa Cabbage Salad with Citrus Dressing

Napa Cabbage Salad with Citrus Dressing is a refreshing dish that combines the crispness of napa cabbage with the bright flavors of citrus. This salad is light, zesty, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of crunchy cabbage and juicy orange slices creates a delightful contrast that wakes up your taste buds.

Making this salad is straightforward and quick, with no complicated techniques involved. Just chop, toss, and dress! It’s a great way to enjoy the benefits of napa cabbage while adding some vibrant color to your plate. Plus, if you’re looking for recipes using napa cabbage, this one is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 small head napa cabbage, shredded
• 2 large oranges, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded napa cabbage and orange slices.
3. Add Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the cabbage and oranges, tossing gently to combine.
4. Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving, and enjoy your fresh, citrusy salad!

Spicy Napa Cabbage Kimchi

Spicy Napa Cabbage Kimchi is a tangy and flavorful side dish that packs a punch. With its crunchy texture and spicy kick, it’s a fantastic addition to any meal or can be enjoyed on its own. This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some patience as it ferments.

The taste is wonderfully balanced with a mix of heat from gochugaru, the fermented tang of the cabbage, and a hint of sweetness. Making your own kimchi at home allows you to customize the spice level and even experiment with other ingredients if you like. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 head Napa cabbage, quartered
• 1/4 cup sea salt
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 cup fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
• 1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 carrot, julienned (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: In a large bowl, dissolve the salt in water. Submerge the Napa cabbage quarters in the brine and let them soak for about 2 hours, turning occasionally.
2. Make the Paste: In a separate bowl, combine ginger, garlic, sugar, fish sauce, and gochugaru to make a spicy paste.
3. Rinse and Drain: After 2 hours, rinse the cabbage thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
4. Mix Together: In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, spicy paste, green onions, and carrots. Mix well, using your hands (wear gloves if desired) to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Pack the Kimchi: Transfer the mixture into a clean jar or container, pressing it down firmly to remove air pockets. Leave some space at the top as it will expand during fermentation.
6. Ferment: Seal the jar and let it sit at room temperature for 1-5 days, depending on how fermented you like it. Taste it daily until it reaches your preferred flavor.
7. Store: Once fermented, store the kimchi in the refrigerator, where it will continue to develop flavor and can last for several months.

Braised Napa Cabbage with Garlic

Braising napa cabbage with garlic is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the vegetable’s natural sweetness. The garlic adds a delightful aroma and richness, transforming the cabbage into a tender, savory side that pairs perfectly with any main course.

This recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for cooks of all experience levels. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy, fitting perfectly into any meal plan that includes recipes using napa cabbage.

Ingredients

• 1 large napa cabbage, cut into wedges
• 6-8 garlic cloves, peeled
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Trim the napa cabbage and cut it into wedges, keeping the core intact to hold the leaves together.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Cabbage: Place the cabbage wedges in the skillet, cut side down. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to brown slightly.
4. Deglaze and Braise: Pour in the soy sauce and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Cover the skillet and let the cabbage braise for 15-20 minutes until tender.
5. Serve: Remove the lid and let any excess liquid evaporate. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve warm.

Napa Cabbage Tacos with Avocado

Napa Cabbage Tacos with Avocado are a fresh and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. These tacos are easy to prepare, making them a great choice for a quick lunch or an impressive dinner party dish. The crispness of the napa cabbage adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy avocado complements the savory filling perfectly.

This recipe is a breeze to whip up and is sure to please everyone at the table. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your meals. Enjoy these tacos with a zesty sauce or your favorite toppings for an extra kick!

Ingredients

• 8 leaves napa cabbage
• 1 cup cooked ground meat (chicken, turkey, or beef)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, combine the cooked ground meat, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
2. Assemble the Tacos: Take a napa cabbage leaf and spoon in some of the meat mixture. Top with avocado slices and chopped cilantro.
3. Finish with Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top of each taco for added flavor.
4. Serve: Enjoy your napa cabbage tacos immediately with any additional toppings you like!

Napa Cabbage and Shrimp Stir-Fry

This Napa cabbage and shrimp stir-fry is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with the crispness of Napa cabbage. It’s light, fresh, and packed with flavor, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal. The sweetness of the shrimp pairs perfectly with the mild taste of the cabbage, and the colorful bell peppers add a nice crunch.

This recipe is simple to make and comes together in no time. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a healthy and satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for those busy evenings when you want something nutritious without a lot of fuss!

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups Napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
• 2 carrots, julienned
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp to the skillet, cooking until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add Napa cabbage, bell pepper, and carrots. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the shrimp to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce. Toss everything together, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve hot.

Napa Cabbage and Bacon Soup

Napa cabbage and bacon soup is a cozy dish that combines the sweet, mild flavor of napa cabbage with the rich, savory taste of crispy bacon. This soup is not just comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The blend of flavors creates a warm and hearty bowl that warms you from the inside out.

With simple ingredients and quick steps, this recipe is ideal for those looking for a delicious and satisfying option. The salty crunch of bacon pairs beautifully with the tender cabbage, creating a satisfying texture in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the chopped napa cabbage and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the crispy bacon just before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious bowl of napa cabbage and bacon soup!