Cabbage Varuval
All Foods • India
How to Make Cabbage Varuval (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cabbage Varuval is a classic South Indian stir-fry, celebrated for its simplicity, earthy flavors, and vibrant aroma. This dish, originating from Tamil Nadu, beautifully highlights cabbage (patta gobhi), which is sautéed with freshly ground spices, curry leaves, and mustard seeds. Cabbage Varuval is a staple in many Tamil households, especially during festive occasions like Pongal and Tamil New Year, where it is served as a side dish with steamed rice and sambar. The preparation is quick, making it a favorite for busy weekdays or light snacking. Its mildly spiced, crunchy texture appeals to both adults and children, and it’s naturally vegetarian, aligning with the traditional South Indian sattvic diet. Cabbage Varuval offers a wonderful balance between taste and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for those looking for healthy Indian recipes. Enjoyed hot straight from the kadhai or at room temperature, this dish is often paired with other South Indian delicacies, adding variety and color to the meal.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl (approx. 150g))
- 2 cups Cabbage (patta gobhi) (finely shredded)
- 1 small Onion (finely sliced)
- 1/2 tsp Mustard seeds (rai)
- 8-10 Curry leaves (kadi patta) (fresh)
- 1 Dry red chilli (broken)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/2 tsp Red chilli powder (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp Grated coconut (nariyal) (fresh or desiccated) - optional
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Oil (preferably cold-pressed coconut or groundnut oil)
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil in a kadhai on medium flame. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
2 minutes
Wait for mustard seeds to crackle completely before adding the next ingredients for best flavor.
- 2
Add curry leaves and broken dry red chilli. Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.
1 minute
Be careful not to burn the spices; stir constantly.
- 3
Add sliced onions and sauté till translucent.
3 minutes
Keep stirring to prevent onions from browning.
- 4
Mix in turmeric powder and red chilli powder. Stir well.
1 minute
Roasting the spices briefly in oil enhances their aroma.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is a healthy choice because it is vegetable-forward, uses minimal oil, and avoids refined ingredients. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan. Its high fiber content aids in satiety, digestion, and weight loss. The inclusion of turmeric and curry leaves brings additional health benefits, while the moderate spice level ensures it’s suitable for most people, including those watching their calorie intake.
Cabbage Varuval is low in calories and rich in dietary fiber, making it ideal for weight management. Cabbage provides vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that boost immunity and promote healthy digestion. Minimal oil keeps the dish light, while the addition of coconut offers healthy fats and minerals like manganese. The use of spices like turmeric adds anti-inflammatory benefits, making this a wholesome and nourishing Indian snack.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Finely shred cabbage for best texture and even cooking.
- 💡Tip 2: Use coconut oil for authentic flavor and added health benefits.
- 💡Tip 3: Add a few cashews when frying onions for a festive touch.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled Cabbage Varuval in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on a tawa or in the microwave before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 110.0 kcal |
