Chinese Cabbage Recipe Pinoy: A Delicious Filipino Twist You Should Try

Chinese cabbage is an excellent choice if you're looking for a healthy and delicious vegetable dish. Also known as Napa cabbage, this leafy green is a staple in many Asian cuisines, including Filipino dishes. Chinese cabbage is rich in nutrients, low in calories, and has a mild, sweet flavour that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.

Preparing Chinese cabbage is quite simple. Start by washing the leaves thoroughly and removing any damaged or wilted parts. Cut the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, and it's ready to use. There are many classic Pinoy Chinese cabbage recipes that you can try, from stir-fries to soups and stews. You can also experiment with different cooking methods and flavour enhancements to create your own unique dishes.

If you're a seafood lover, you can add some shrimp or squid to your Chinese cabbage recipe to give it a delicious twist. The seafood complements the mild flavour of the cabbage and adds a protein boost to your meal. You can use fresh or frozen seafood, and cook it separately before adding it to the dish. With so many possibilities, Chinese cabbage is a versatile and healthy ingredient that you can enjoy in many different ways.

Key Takeaways

• Chinese cabbage is a healthy and delicious vegetable that is easy to prepare.
• There are many classic Pinoy Chinese cabbage recipes that you can try, as well as different cooking methods and flavour enhancements to experiment with.
• Adding seafood to your Chinese cabbage recipe can give it a delicious twist and provide a protein boost.

Overview of Chinese Cabbage

Chinese cabbage is a leafy green vegetable that has been used in Chinese cuisine for centuries. It is also known as Napa cabbage, wong bok, or hakusai. This type of cabbage has a mild, sweet flavour and a crisp texture, making it a popular ingredient in many dishes.

Chinese cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in nutrients and vitamins. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, strong bones, and healthy vision. It also contains antioxidants that can help prevent cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Here is a breakdown of the nutrition information for 100 grams of Chinese cabbage:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	13
Protein	1.1 g
Fat	0.2 g
Carbohydrates	2.4 g
Fibre	1.2 g
Vitamin C	45% of the Daily Value
Vitamin K	38% of the Daily Value
Vitamin A	21% of the Daily Value

Chinese cabbage can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, soups, and salads. It pairs well with seafood, such as shrimp or squid, which can be added to stir-fries or soups for extra flavour and nutrition. For example, you can try making a Chinese cabbage and shrimp stir-fry, or a Chinese cabbage and squid soup.

Chinese cabbage is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be easily incorporated into your diet.

Preparation Basics

Selecting Ingredients

When selecting cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any heads that are soft, wilted, or have discoloured patches. It is also important to choose a sharp knife for cutting the cabbage. A dull knife can easily slip and cause injury.

Prep Time and Cook Time

Preparation time for this Chinese cabbage recipe is relatively short, taking around 10-15 minutes to cut the cabbage and other ingredients. Cooking time is around 10-15 minutes as well. If you are adding seafood to the recipe, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Cutting Techniques

To prepare the cabbage for this recipe, remove the outer leaves and cut the head in half. Cut out the core and then slice the cabbage into strips. You can also choose to chop the cabbage into smaller pieces if you prefer.

If you are adding seafood to the recipe, consider using prawns or squid. Prawns should be cleaned and deveined before adding to the stir-fry. Squid can be sliced into rings or strips and added to the wok towards the end of the cooking process. Seafood can add a delicious flavour and texture to this Chinese cabbage recipe.

Classic Pinoy Chinese Cabbage Recipes

If you're looking for classic Pinoy Chinese cabbage recipes, you're in luck. There are plenty of delicious and easy-to-make dishes that you can try out. Here are a few of our favourites:

Ginisang Repolyo

Ginisang Repolyo, also known as sautéed cabbage, is a classic Filipino dish that's quick and easy to make. It's perfect for lunch or dinner and goes well with warm white rice. While the traditional recipe calls for pork slices, you can substitute chicken or beef if you prefer. You may also use seafood such as shrimp or prawns to give it a twist.

To make Ginisang Repolyo, you'll need:

• 1/2 pound of pork belly, thinly sliced
• 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the pork and cook until browned.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the cabbage and stir-fry for a few minutes until it's slightly wilted.
4. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with rice.

Chinese Cabbage Rolls

Chinese cabbage rolls are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meat-based rolls. They're easy to make and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as ground pork or corned beef. You can also add seafood such as shrimp or prawns to the filling.

To make Chinese cabbage rolls, you'll need:

• 1 head of Chinese cabbage
• 1/2 pound of ground pork or corned beef
• 1/2 cup of chopped onion
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup of chopped celery
• 1/4 cup of chopped mushrooms
• 1/4 cup of water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage and blanch the remaining leaves in boiling water for a few minutes until they're soft and pliable.
3. In a pan, sauté the ground pork or corned beef until browned.
4. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms and sauté until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the water and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place a spoonful of the filling on each cabbage leaf and roll tightly.
7. Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes.
8. Serve hot with your favourite sauce.

Stir-Fried Chinese Cabbage with Shrimp

Stir-fried Chinese cabbage with shrimp is a healthy and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's quick and easy to make and can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. You can also substitute the shrimp with other seafood such as scallops or squid.

To make stir-fried Chinese cabbage with shrimp, you'll need:

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 head of Chinese cabbage, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a wok or pan over high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and stir-fry until they're pink and cooked through.
4. Add the Chinese cabbage and stir-fry for a few minutes until it's slightly wilted.
5. Add the oyster sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with rice.

There you have it, three classic Pinoy Chinese cabbage recipes that you can try out. Whether you're in the mood for something sautéed, rolled, or stir-fried, there's something for everyone. So why not give them a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills?

Cooking Methods

When it comes to cooking Chinese cabbage, there are several methods you can use. Each method has its own unique benefits, so it's up to you to decide which one you prefer. Here are three popular cooking methods for Chinese cabbage:

Steaming

Steaming Chinese cabbage is a great way to retain its nutrients and flavour. To steam Chinese cabbage, you will need a steaming basket or a bamboo steamer. Simply place the cabbage leaves in the basket or steamer and steam for about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the cabbage from the steamer and serve it as a side dish or use it in a stir-fry.

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a popular cooking method for Chinese cabbage. It's quick, easy, and results in a delicious dish. To stir-fry Chinese cabbage, heat up a wok or a frying pan with some cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, add the cabbage and stir-fry for a few minutes until it's cooked through. You can add some seafood such as shrimp or squid balls to the stir-fry for an extra flavour.

Simmering

Simmering is another great way to cook Chinese cabbage. To simmer Chinese cabbage, you will need a pot of boiling water. Add the cabbage to the pot and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it's cooked through. Once done, remove the cabbage from the pot and serve it as a side dish or use it in a soup.

No matter which cooking method you choose, Chinese cabbage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Try experimenting with different cooking methods to find your favourite way to cook Chinese cabbage.

Flavour Enhancements

Seasoning and Spices

When it comes to enhancing the flavour of your Chinese cabbage dish, the right seasoning and spices can make all the difference. Salt is an essential ingredient that can bring out the natural sweetness of the cabbage. You can add salt to taste when sautéing the cabbage with garlic and onions.

Garlic and onions are also great for adding flavour to your dish. These two ingredients work well together to create a delicious aroma and taste. Chop them finely and sauté them in oil until fragrant before adding the cabbage.

Peppercorns are another great ingredient that can add a subtle heat to your dish. Crush them before adding them to your sautéed cabbage for a more intense flavour.

Sauces and Condiments

Sauces and condiments are another way to enhance the flavour of your Chinese cabbage dish. Soy sauce and oyster sauce are two popular condiments that can add a savoury umami flavour to your dish. Add them to your sautéed cabbage towards the end of cooking for the best results.

Sugar is also a great ingredient for balancing out the flavours in your dish. Add a small amount of sugar to your sautéed cabbage to help bring out the natural sweetness of the cabbage.

Vinegar is another condiment that can add a tangy flavour to your dish. Add a splash of vinegar to your sautéed cabbage for a bit of acidity.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add seafood to your Chinese cabbage dish. Shrimp or squid are great options that can add a unique flavour and texture to your dish. Simply sauté them with your garlic and onions before adding the cabbage.

To sum it up, the right combination of seasoning, spices, sauces, and condiments can take your Chinese cabbage dish to the next level. Experiment with different flavour combinations to find the perfect balance for your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's a simple way to prepare Chinese cabbage, Filipino style?

A simple way to prepare Chinese cabbage, Filipino style is to make a stir-fry. Heat some oil in a pan, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant, then add sliced Chinese cabbage. Season with salt and pepper, and add a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavour. You can also add some sliced carrots or bell peppers for added colour and crunch.

How can I make a quick and easy Filipino Chinese cabbage dish?

One quick and easy Filipino Chinese cabbage dish is to make a Ginisang Repolyo or sautéed cabbage. Heat some oil in a pan, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant, then add sliced Chinese cabbage and some sliced pork or shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, and add a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavour. Let it cook for a few minutes until the cabbage is wilted but still slightly crunchy.

Can you suggest a Filipino recipe that combines Chinese cabbage with chicken?

Yes, you can try making Tinolang Manok with Chinese cabbage. This is a Filipino chicken soup dish that is traditionally made with green papaya, but you can substitute it with Chinese cabbage. Simply sauté some garlic and onions in a pot, add sliced chicken and water, and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked. Add sliced Chinese cabbage and some sliced ginger, and let it cook for a few more minutes until the cabbage is wilted.

How do I cook Ginisang Repolyo with oyster sauce?

To cook Ginisang Repolyo with oyster sauce, follow the basic recipe for sautéed cabbage (Ginisang Repolyo) but add oyster sauce towards the end of cooking. Heat some oil in a pan, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant, then add sliced Chinese cabbage and some sliced pork or shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, and let it cook for a few minutes until the cabbage is wilted. Add a splash of oyster sauce and stir to combine.

What's a good ground pork and cabbage recipe in the Filipino culinary style?

A good ground pork and cabbage recipe in the Filipino culinary style is Lumpiang Shanghai. This is a type of Filipino spring roll that is filled with ground pork, sliced cabbage, and other vegetables. To make it, mix ground pork with minced garlic, onion, carrots, and cabbage. Season with salt and pepper, and wrap the mixture in spring roll wrappers. Deep-fry until golden brown and crispy.

Is it possible to make Ginisang Repolyo without any meat?

Yes, it is possible to make Ginisang Repolyo without any meat. Simply omit the pork or shrimp from the recipe and follow the basic recipe for sautéed cabbage. Heat some oil in a pan, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant, then add sliced Chinese cabbage. Season with salt and pepper, and add a splash of soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavour. Let it cook for a few minutes until the cabbage is wilted but still slightly crunchy. You can also add some sliced carrots or bell peppers for added colour and crunch. If you want to add some protein, you can add some tofu or tempeh.