Name: Vegan Sautéed Cabbage and Onions
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 7 cups green cabbage, shredded; 2 cups soy curls; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 tsp caraway seeds; 2 tsp onion powder; 2 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked); 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional); 1 red chili pepper, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh dill, for garnish; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste; Olive oil or water, for sautéing (optional for oil-free)

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Vegan Sautéed Cabbage and Onions is a wholesome, hearty dish that transforms humble ingredients into something flavorful and protein-rich. Featuring shredded green cabbage, sweet caramelized onions, savory soy curls, and the bold flavor of caraway seeds and paprika, this one-pan wonder is perfect as a main or a side dish. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free adaptable, it’s a nourishing comfort food with bold Eastern European-inspired flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is everything a great plant-based meal should be: simple, satisfying, and full of texture and flavor. The soy curls soak up the smoky, spiced aromatics and provide a meaty, protein-packed bite, while cabbage and onions bring natural sweetness. It’s incredibly versatile—serve it with noodles, potatoes, or just on its own. Plus, it’s easy to make oil-free for a whole foods plant-based lifestyle.

Vegan Sautéed Cabbage and Onions

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

green cabbage
soy curls
yellow onion
caraway seeds
onion powder
paprika (sweet or smoked)
nutritional yeast (optional)
red chili pepper
fresh dill (for garnish)
sea salt and black pepper
olive oil or water (for sautéing)

Directions

Soak Soy Curls: Place soy curls in hot water and soak for 10 minutes. Drain and squeeze out excess water. Set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water for oil-free cooking. Sauté diced onion until translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
Add Caraway and Chili: Stir in caraway seeds and chopped red chili pepper. Continue cooking until the onions begin to caramelize, about 5 more minutes. Add water as needed to deglaze the pan and prevent sticking.
Cook the Cabbage: Add shredded cabbage and a pinch of sea salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage wilts, about 7–10 minutes.
Season: Sprinkle paprika, onion powder, and nutritional yeast over the cabbage mixture. Toss to coat everything evenly.
Add Soy Curls: Stir in the soaked soy curls and cook for another 5–10 minutes, until both cabbage and soy curls are lightly browned and caramelized. Add more water or oil as needed to loosen up any browned bits.
Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill. Enjoy as-is or alongside your favorite noodles or potatoes.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Oil-Free Version: Use water or vegetable broth instead of olive oil to keep it WFPB-compliant.
Spicier: Use a hotter chili or add red pepper flakes for more heat.
Different Cabbage: Use red cabbage or a mix for color and variety.
Add Veggies: Stir in shredded carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Swap Soy Curls: Use tempeh, tofu, or lentils if soy curls aren’t available.
Serve Differently: Wrap in tortillas, serve over grains, or pair with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen as needed. Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

What are soy curls?

Soy curls are a minimally processed meat substitute made from whole, non-GMO soybeans. When rehydrated, they have a chewy, meat-like texture and readily absorb flavor.

Can I make this recipe without soy curls?

Yes. Substitute with tofu, tempeh, chickpeas, or simply leave them out and serve the dish as a veggie side.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just confirm your soy curls and seasonings are certified gluten-free if needed.

How do I shave cabbage?

Use a sharp knife or mandoline to thinly slice cabbage. You can also buy pre-shredded cabbage for convenience.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish reheats well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

What can I serve with this?

Serve with roasted potatoes, noodles, quinoa, or wrap it in a flatbread for a quick lunch.

Is nutritional yeast necessary?

No, but it adds a slightly cheesy, savory flavor. You can leave it out or substitute with miso paste or tamari for extra umami.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a large enough skillet or wok and increase cooking time slightly to ensure even sautéing.

Does the dish taste strongly of caraway?

Caraway adds a unique aromatic touch similar to rye bread. You can reduce or omit it if you’re not a fan.

Conclusion

Vegan Sautéed Cabbage and Onions is a simple, rustic dish that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. It’s nutrient-dense, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re plant-based, gluten-free, or just looking for a hearty and healthy skillet meal, this recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.