How to Make Traditional Chinese “Boiled Cabbage” (Shui Zhu Bai Cai)

Hey foodies! Today, I’m bringing you a super simple yet super flavorful Chinese dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in: Boiled Cabbage, or as we call it in Chinese, “Shui Zhu Bai Cai.” This dish might sound basic, but trust me, it’s anything but! Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the Cabbage

• Chinese Cabbage (Napa Cabbage): 1 head
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups (you can use store-bought or homemade)
• Ginger: 2 slices
• Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
• Salt: A pinch

For the Garnish

• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon
• Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Chopped Green Onions: A handful
• Red Chili Flakes: A pinch (optional, if you like a bit of heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cabbage

1. Wash the Cabbage: Give your cabbage a good rinse under running water. We want it nice and clean.
2. Cut the Cabbage: Cut the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. No need to get fancy here—just make sure they’re easy to eat.

Step 2: Cook the Cabbage

1. Boil the Broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the ginger slices and minced garlic. Let it simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
2. Add the Cabbage: Toss in the cabbage pieces. Stir gently and let them cook until they’re just tender. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them—you want them to still have a bit of crunch.

Step 3: Season and Serve

1. Season the Cabbage: Once the cabbage is cooked, give it a quick taste. Add a pinch of salt if needed.
2. Garnish: Drizzle some sesame oil and soy sauce over the cabbage. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and a pinch of red chili flakes if you like a bit of spice.
3. Serve: Transfer the cabbage to a serving plate. It’s ready to be enjoyed!

Why This Dish Rocks

This dish is all about simplicity. The key is using a good-quality chicken broth to give the cabbage that extra depth of flavor. Plus, the sesame oil and soy sauce add a nice umami kick, while the green onions give it a fresh finish. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a light meal on its own.

Cultural Fun Fact

In Chinese cuisine, we often use simple ingredients to create dishes that highlight their natural flavors. Boiled Cabbage is a great example of this. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through generations, and it’s all about using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create something delicious without a lot of fuss.

I hope you give this dish a try! It’s super easy to make, and it’s a great way to introduce your friends and family to the simplicity and beauty of Chinese cooking. Enjoy!