| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 158 | 11g | 1.6g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 4g | 4g | 0.2g |
When I first crafted my Sauteed Kerguelen Cabbage with Garlic and Chilli, I was overcome with a sense of harmonious balance. The vibrant greens paired with the bold spice of chilli and garlic married surprising familiar comfort with invigorating excitement. Inspired by my rich Pacific Northwest roots and diverse Japanese heritage, this dish is my humble way of sharing the unity of both my cultures. Though it’s unique in its own right, this recipe kindly reminds me of the homely sauteed veggies from my Seattle upbringing and the pungent palate of Japanese cuisine that my summers in Japan have made me so fond of. The remarkable thing about this dish is how the earthy, somewhat sweet flavor of the Kerguelen cabbage gets beautifully amplified by the kick of the chilli and the robustness of the garlic.
The Power of Simplicity
There’s an inherent power in simplicity and this recipe is the perfect testament of that. In its essence, Sauteed Kerguelen Cabbage with Garlic and Chilli is just a few ingredients cooked in harmony, but it gives an outright complex, robust flavor. Today, I am sharing my love for this dish that celebrates wholesome, tasty food in the most balanced way. Where each ingredient brings its distinctive flavor to play, without overpowering the other. Just a drizzle of lemon juice at final cooking stage and a garnish of lemon zest can heighten the overall flavor profile of this dish.
An Ode to Health
More than just delicious, this dish brings a range of health benefits to the table. Kerguelen cabbage is packed with Vitamin C and dietary fiber. Likewise, garlic and chilli are known for their immune-boosting properties. It’s my firm belief that healthy eating doesn’t need to be bland or boring, and I cannot think of a better example than this rich, yet nutritious dish. So, if you’re yearning for a healthy, wholesome, and flavorful meal, this recipe can be a showstealer in your everyday meals.
Based on its light, flavorful profile, this dish pairs beautifully with a hearty protein like grilled salmon or a bowl of traditional miso soup for a well-rounded and fulfilling meal. The robust, yet delicate flavor of this earthy dish can hold its own without eclipsing the flavors of its companions, making it the perfect side for any main course. Rest assured, every bite of this harmonious blend of ingredients will leave you nourished and satisfied, while longing for just a little more.
What You’ll Need
- 12 cups of Kerguelen cabbage leaves, washed and torn into pieces
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 red chili peppers, seeded and minced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Method
Step One
Start by preparing your ingredients. Ensure that the 12 cups of Kerguelen cabbage leaves are clean and torn into bite-sized pieces. Also, mince 6 cloves of garlic and seed and mince 2 red chili peppers. If you haven’t done so already, also zest a lemon for garnish and measure out 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
Step Two
Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Let it cook for about a minute until it is fragrant, but not yet browned.
Step Three
Add the red chili peppers to the pan with the garlic. Sauté them together for a few minutes until they are softened.
Step Four
Now, add the Kerguelen cabbage leaves to the pan. It might look like a lot, but they will wilt down significantly as they cook. Stir them well to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil, garlic, and peppers. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step Five
Cover the pan and let the cabbage cook for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are wilted to your desired level of doneness. Make sure to stir them occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pan and to ensure even cooking.
Step Six
Remove the cover and drizzle the cabbage with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Stir well to evenly distribute the juice. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step Seven
Serve the sautéed Kerguelen cabbage hot, with a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for garnish. Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious side dish!
