Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe (South African-Style)

Looking for a quick and delicious veggie side dish that goes with almost anything? This Easy Fried Cabbage is a budget-friendly favorite made with simple ingredients and bold flavor. It’s the perfect everyday side dish for pap, rice, or grilled meats.

This fried cabbage recipe is a tasty veggie dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. It will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Fried Cabbage

• Budget-friendly – Uses everyday ingredients found in most South African homes.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• One-pan recipe – Less cleanup, more flavor.
• Versatile – Enjoy it with starch, meat, or on its own.

Ingredients for Fried Cabbage

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this easy cabbage stir-fry:

• Sliced green cabbage – The star of the dish.
• oil – Use sunflower oil or your preferred cooking oil.
• onion – Adds sweetness and depth.
• tomato, chopped – Gives the dish a bit of acidity and moisture.
• Red and green pepper – For flavor and color.
• 1 tbsp Six Gun Spice – This spice mix brings that signature South African flair.
• salt – Adjust to taste.

Recipe Variations

• Add a chili if you like it spicy.
• Throw in some carrots or grated baby marrow for extra veg.
• Use curry powder instead of Six Gun Spice for a twist.

How to Make Easy Fried Cabbage (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, until they’re soft and translucent.

Step 2: Cook the Tomato

Add chopped tomato and let it cook for another 5 minutes, until it breaks down and blends with the onion.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Spice

Stir in the red and green peppers, Six Gun Spice, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma.

Step 4: Add Cabbage

Add the sliced cabbage and mix well, ensuring all the veggies are coated in the flavorful spice mixture.

Step 5: Cook Until Tender

Let it cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to soften but still keep a slight crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with pap and wors for a classic plate.
• Pair with savory rice or chicken stew.
• Enjoy it as a meat-free main with some fresh bread or maize meal.
• Add to wraps or toasted sandwiches for a quick lunch.

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat or microwave until hot.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Curried Rice

Loaded Potato Salad

Yield: 4

Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe (South African-Style)

Print

A simple and delicious South African-style fried cabbage recipe made with onions, tomato, peppers, and bold spices. This quick one-pan dish is ready in under 30 minutes and makes the perfect side for pap, rice, or your favorite meat dishes.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced green cabbage
• 3 tbsp oil
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• ½ red pepper, sliced
• ½ green pepper, sliced
• 1 tbsp Six Gun Spice
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook for 5 minutes until soft.
3. Add tomato and cook for another 5 minutes until saucy.
4. Stir in peppers, spice, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add cabbage and mix well to coat.
6. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to toss in grated carrots, mushrooms, or baby marrows to use up what you have in the fridge.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 147Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 305mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 4gSugar: 7gProtein: 3g