Stir-Fried Cabbage Stems with Pork Belly｜Easy, Crunchy & Savory Chinese Family-Style Recipe 🥬🥓
If you’ve ever tossed out cabbage stems, this recipe will change your mind. Stir-Fried Cabbage Stems with Pork Belly is a classic Chinese family-style dish that turns an often-overlooked ingredient into something irresistibly crunchy and savory.
The cabbage stems stay crisp and juicy, while thin slices of pork belly add richness and depth. It’s simple, fast, and incredibly satisfying — the kind of dish that disappears quickly once it hits the table.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Dish
Crunchy texture: Fresh cabbage stems with a satisfying bite.
Rich & savory: Pork belly adds just the right amount of fat.
Quick to cook: Ready in under 15 minutes.
Zero waste: A smart way to use the whole cabbage.
🧂 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
3 cups cabbage stems, peeled and sliced into thin strips
150 g pork belly, thinly sliced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 garlic cloves, sliced
1 dried chili or fresh chili slices (optional)
1 tbsp light soy sauce
½ tsp sugar
Salt and white pepper, to taste
Optional: a splash of cooking wine
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the cabbage stems
Peel off the tough outer layer, then slice the stems into thin strips. Rinse and drain well.
Render the pork belly
Heat a wok or skillet over medium heat. Add pork belly and cook until lightly golden and some fat is released.
Add aromatics
Add garlic and chili. Stir-fry briefly until fragrant.
Stir-fry the cabbage
Add cabbage stems and turn heat to high. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until crisp-tender.
Season
Add soy sauce, sugar, salt, and white pepper. Toss quickly to coat evenly.
Serve immediately
Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice.
💡 Cooking Tips
Slice the cabbage stems evenly for consistent texture.
High heat keeps the cabbage crunchy and fresh-tasting.
Don’t overcook — cabbage stems should stay crisp.
Swap pork belly for bacon or lean pork if needed.
🍚 How to Serve
This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice and simple soups. It also works well as part of a multi-dish Chinese family meal.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Stir-Fried Cabbage Stems with Pork Belly is proof that everyday ingredients can shine when cooked the right way. Crunchy, savory, and deeply comforting, it’s a dish that feels humble but tastes incredibly satisfying.
Once you try it, you’ll never throw away cabbage stems again.
