Gujarati Cabbage Sambharo
A crunchy, tangy, and lightly spiced cabbage stir-fry from Gujarat. This quick salad, known as Kobi no Sambharo, comes together in minutes and is a classic side dish for fafda, gathiya, or any Indian meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Vegetables
- b.Wash and finely shred the cabbage. A food processor with a shredding attachment works well for this.
- c.Peel and grate the carrot.
- d.Wash and slit the green chillies lengthwise, keeping the stem intact.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Tempering (Tadka)
- b.Heat mustard oil in a kadai or a wide pan over medium-high heat.
- c.Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds. Wait for about 30 seconds until they begin to crackle and pop.
- d.Immediately add the asafoetida and the slit green chillies. Sauté for 15-20 seconds, being careful not to burn the spices.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Stir-fry the Sambharo
- b.Add the grated carrot and shredded cabbage to the pan.
- c.Add the turmeric powder and salt. Toss everything together quickly to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- d.Stir-fry on high heat for just 2-3 minutes. The goal is to slightly cook the vegetables while retaining their crunchiness. Do not cover the pan.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat.
- c.Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the sambharo and add the chopped coriander leaves.
- d.Give it a final toss to combine. Serve immediately while it's warm and crisp.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1The key to a perfect sambharo is its crunch. Avoid overcooking the cabbage at all costs.
- 2For an authentic flavor, use mustard oil. Its pungent aroma complements the vegetables beautifully.
- 3Serve immediately. As it cools, the cabbage will release water and lose its signature crunch.
- 4For a classic Gujarati sweet and sour (khatta-meetha) taste, add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar along with the salt.
- 5Use a food processor with a shredding blade to get uniformly and finely shredded cabbage quickly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetable Addition
Add thinly sliced capsicum (bell pepper) or shredded raw papaya along with the cabbage for extra flavor and texture.
Spice BlendSpice Blend
Use 1 teaspoon of Panch Phoran (Bengali five-spice blend) instead of just mustard seeds for a more complex aroma.
GarnishGarnish
Sprinkle some roasted sesame seeds on top before serving for an added nutty flavor and crunch.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red chilli powder along with the turmeric for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Cabbage is packed with dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health. It helps promote regular bowel movements and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Low in Calories
This dish is very low in calories and fat, making it an ideal choice for those managing their weight or looking for light, nutritious meal options.
Rich in Antioxidants
Ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and turmeric are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Aids Digestion
The inclusion of asafoetida (hing) is traditional in Indian cooking for its carminative properties, which can help reduce gas, bloating, and indigestion.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Cabbage Sambharo (about 1 cup or 85g) contains approximately 60-75 calories, making it a very light and healthy side dish.