Flavorful Stir-Fried Cabbage with Dried Shrimp
Adding This Secret Ingredient to Stir-Fried Cabbage Elevates Its Flavor Profile!
While plain stir-fried cabbage is delicious, adding finely chopped dried shrimp creates a deeper, more profound savory taste that truly transforms the dish.
Main Ingredients- 500g fresh cabbage
- 90g bacon, thick-cut
- 2 stalks scallions
- 1 handful dried shrimp (approx. 10-15g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, finely chop the dried shrimp with a knife to retain some texture. Aim for slightly chunky pieces rather than a fine powder for a more satisfying bite. (Shrimp powder is also an acceptable option.)
Step 2
Thoroughly wash the cabbage under running water. Remove the thick core and slice it into roughly 0.5cm thick strips. Cutting them too thinly might result in a mushy texture when stir-fried, so aim for a moderate thickness.
Step 3
Rinse the sliced cabbage once more under running water. Drain it thoroughly in a colander. Ensuring all excess water is removed is key to preventing a watery stir-fry.
Step 4
Cut the bacon into about 1.5cm thick pieces. Finely chop the scallions, preparing them to add a fresh aroma at the end.
Step 5
Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a very small amount of cooking oil (about 1/2 Tbsp). Sauté the minced garlic and chopped bacon until the bacon is lightly browned and has rendered some of its fat. Since bacon releases its own oil, use minimal additional cooking oil. Once the bacon is fragrant, add the sliced cabbage and the chopped dried shrimp. Stir-fry everything vigorously over high heat.
Step 6
Once the cabbage is slightly wilted but still retains a pleasant crispness, add 1 Tbsp of oyster sauce for a glossy finish and umami boost. The oyster sauce might release a little more moisture, so continue to stir-fry over high heat until most of the liquid evaporates and the ingredients are well combined. Finally, stir in the chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sesame oil to finish. Tip: Cooking cabbage over medium heat can release a lot of moisture, making it soggy. Always use high heat for a quick stir-fry to maintain its crisp texture!
