"Overhead shot of a vegan cabbage and tofu stir-fry in wok on wooden surface with fresh ingredients and soy sauce on side"

Vegan Cabbage Stir-Fry: A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Delight

/ Vegan Recipes / By

Key Info

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 12g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Dietary Tags: Vegan, Gluten-Free Option

Why You’ll Love This Stir-Fry

Craving a quick, nutritious meal that’ll make your taste buds dance? This Vegan Cabbage Stir-Fry is your ultimate weeknight hero. Packed with crispy tofu, vibrant vegetables, and a punchy sauce, it’s a dish that proves healthy eating never means compromising on flavor.

Colorful assortment of fresh vegetables being prepared on a wooden cutting board

Equipment You’ll Need

Essential Tools:
  • Large wok or non-stick skillet
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients Lineup

Veggie Stars:
  • 1 small green cabbage (2 lbs), shredded
  • 2 medium carrots, julienned
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 14 oz extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed
Flavor Makers:
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 inch fresh ginger, grated

Pro Tip: Swap tofu with tempeh or chickpeas for variety!

Cook preparing stir fry in a sizzling wok

Cooking Method: Stir-Fry Magic

Prep Like a Pro
  1. Press tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
  2. Chop all vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
  3. Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
Cooking Steps
  1. Heat wok to medium-high. Add 1 tsp sesame oil.
  2. Crisp tofu for 5-7 minutes until golden. Set aside.
  3. Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir-fry carrots and bell pepper for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add cabbage, cook until slightly wilted (4 minutes).
  6. Return tofu, pour sauce. Toss to combine.

Colorful vegan stir fry dish neatly plated

Critical Pro Tips

Texture Secrets:
  • Keep wok hot for crispy edges
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan
  • Cook vegetables quickly to maintain crunch

Storage & Meal Prep

  • Fridge Life: 3 days in airtight container
  • Reheat: Stovetop, splash of water
  • Freeze: Not recommended due to cabbage’s water content

Variations to Explore

  • Add cashews for crunch
  • Swap tofu with mushrooms
  • Spice it up with sriracha
  • Try different protein alternatives

Nutrition Nugget

This stir-fry is a nutrition powerhouse:

  • High in fiber
  • Complete plant protein
  • Low in calories
  • Packed with vitamins

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Soggy vegetables? Keep heat high
  • Bland flavor? Don’t skimp on seasonings
  • Tough tofu? Press thoroughly

Final Verdict: A foolproof, delicious vegan meal that’ll become your go-to weeknight dinner!