Cabbage Fried Rice

The Easy, Flavor-Packed Recipe You’ll Love!

If you love fried rice but want something lighter, crunchier, and packed with fresh flavors, Cabbage Fried Rice is the perfect dish for you! This recipe takes the classic fried rice up a notch by adding finely shredded cabbage, which not only enhances texture but also absorbs all the delicious seasonings beautifully.

It’s simple, nutritious, and can be customized to suit any taste—whether you like it spicy, meaty, or entirely plant-based. Ready to try this quick and tasty dish? Once you taste it, you’ll be making it again and again. Let’s dive in!

What Makes Cabbage Fried Rice Special?

Unlike traditional fried rice, this version swaps a portion of the rice for shredded cabbage, making it a lighter and lower-carb option while still bursting with umami goodness. The combination of stir-fried cabbage, rice, and seasonings creates a perfect balance of softness, crunch, and deep flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded with Veggies – Cabbage, carrots, onions, and peppers make this dish a nutrient-packed delight.
Perfectly Seasoned – Infused with garlic, ginger, thyme, and a rich meat stock.
Versatile & Customizable – Use turkey, chicken, beef, or even shrimp!
Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh and flavorful, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat Stock (Flavor Booster!)

4 turkey wings (or chicken, beef, or your choice of protein)
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon green seasoning (parsley, basil, and other greens blended together)
2 seasoning cubes
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon grated garlic
1 teaspoon grated ginger
4 cups water

For the Rice

2 cups basmati rice (or long-grain parboiled rice)
1 teaspoon salt
4 cups boiling water

For the Stir-Fry

2 tablespoons garlic butter (or regular butter)
1 tablespoon oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 spring onions, chopped
1 large carrot, peeled and diced
1 small cabbage, shredded
1 teaspoon grated garlic
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 smoked beef sausage, chopped (or chicken, beef, gizzard, or liver)
1 teaspoon oregano & basil mix
1 teaspoon seasoning cubes
1 teaspoon ground pepper (adjust to taste)

Closer look at some key Ingredients & Substitutes

Rice: Use day-old cooked rice (jasmine or basmati works great). If using fresh rice, spread it out to cool before frying.

Cabbage: Green cabbage is ideal, but purple cabbage adds a beautiful pop of color!

Protein: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu. Want it plant-based? Skip the meat and add mushrooms or scrambled eggs.

Vegetables: Bell peppers, carrots, peas, or even corn can enhance the texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cabbage Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Meat & Make the Stock

In a pot, combine turkey wings (or chosen protein) with onion, green seasoning, seasoning cubes, salt, garlic, ginger, curry powder, and thyme.

Add water, cover, and cook until the meat is tender.
Once cooked, remove the meat from the stock and set the stock aside—this is key for this best-tasting fried rice!

Pro Tip: You can fry or air-fry the turkey for extra crispiness!

Step 2: Prep the Rice

Place the rice in a bowl and pour boiling water over it.

Cover and let it sit for 7 minutes (only 5 minutes if parboiling on the stove).
Drain and rinse with cold water until the water runs clear.
Let the rice drain in a sieve to remove excess water.

Why This Step? It helps remove excess starch, ensuring the rice is light and fluffy—not sticky!

Step 3: Toast & Cook the Rice

In a pot, heat garlic butter over medium heat.
Add the drained rice and toast for about 7 minutes, stirring frequently.

Pour in the reserved meat stock (strain it first for a clean texture).

Add extra hot water if needed, ensuring the liquid level matches the rice.
Cover and cook until the rice is 80% done (still slightly firm).
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Toasting the rice adds a rich, nutty flavor and keeps it from spoiling quickly!

Step 4: Sauté the Veggies

In a separate pan, heat garlic butter and a little oil.
Add chopped onions and spring onions and sauté for 2 minutes.

Stir in grated garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
Add the chopped beef sausage (or your preferred protein) and sauté for 2 minutes for texture.

Stir in carrots, cabbage, and ground pepper—cook for just 30 seconds to keep them crisp!

Season with seasoning cubes, oregano, and basil mix.
Stir well, then remove from heat immediately.

Step 5: Combine & Finish

Once the rice is 80% cooked, gently fluff it with a fork.
Stir in the sautéed vegetables and mix well.
Cook on high heat for 3 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

Garnish with extra spring onions, then remove from heat.

How to Serve Cabbage Fried Rice

Enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it as a side with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra freshness and crunch.
Pair it with a bowl of spicy chili sauce for an extra kick!

Best Pan for Stir-Frying Fried Rice

To get that restaurant-style fried rice texture, the right pan matters!

Wok: The best option for even heat distribution and quick stir-frying. Get the joyful cook wok from our shop

Non-Stick Pan: Works fine but won’t develop as much of a charred flavor.

Cast Iron Skillet: Retains high heat and creates the perfect caramelization.

Cleaning Tip for Stir-Fry Pans

If your pan has stubborn bits stuck to it, here’s how to clean it easily:

Fill it with warm water and a splash of vinegar.
Let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub gently with a sponge.
Rinse well and dry immediately to prevent rust (for cast iron).

Pro Tips for the Best Cabbage Fried Rice

Use Fresh Cabbage – It adds the perfect crunch and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Toast the Rice – This prevents it from going bad too quickly and keeps it firm.
Don’t Overcook the Veggies – Stir-fry them for just 30 seconds to maintain texture.
Season in Stages – Always taste and adjust seasoning after adding the meat stock.
Add More Protein – You can include shrimp, gizzard, or diced chicken for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular long-grain rice?
A: Yes! Just reduce the soaking time to 5 minutes and adjust the cooking liquid.

Q: Why toast the rice before cooking?
A: It prevents mushy rice, adds a nutty flavor, and keeps your fried rice fresh longer.

Q: Can I skip the meat stock?
A: You can, but it won’t be as flavorful! Use vegetable or chicken broth as an alternative.

Q: How do I store and reheat cabbage fried rice?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or oil to bring back moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage Fried Rice is a game-changer—light, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints!

So, will you be trying this recipe? Let me know in the comments! And if you loved it, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more delicious recipes from Joyful Cook!