Cabbage Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and wholesome meal that combines stir-fried cabbage, carrots, and aromatic seasonings with rice. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover rice and veggies while making a delicious and satisfying dish. This easy recipe is packed with crunch, umami flavors, and can be customized with your favorite proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 cups cabbage, chopped
1 medium carrot, julienned
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
1 egg (optional, for added protein)
Instructions:
Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Sauté garlic and onions until fragrant and translucent.
Add carrots and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Toss in cabbage and stir-fry until slightly softened but still crisp.
Push the veggies to the side, add a bit more oil, and scramble the egg (if using).
Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
Season with soy sauce, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
Drizzle sesame oil over the rice and mix again.
Top with green onions, give it a final stir, and serve hot!
Tips for the Best Cabbage Fried Rice
✅ Use Day-Old Rice – Leftover rice works best as it’s drier and prevents the dish from becoming mushy. If using fresh rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool before frying.
✅ High Heat Cooking – Stir-fry on high heat to get a slight char and enhance the flavors. Keep stirring to prevent burning.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Cabbage – Keep the cabbage slightly crisp for the best texture. It should be tender yet have a slight crunch.
✅ Customize Your Protein – Add scrambled eggs, tofu, shrimp, or chicken to make it a complete meal.
✅ Enhance the Flavor – A dash of sesame oil, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lime can elevate the taste.