Ginger Sesame Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients (For 4 servings):

• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and green germ removed
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1/8 teaspoon flavor enhancer, such as Acc'ent
• 1 pound cabbage, cut into bite-sized pieces or sliced into thin threads
• Chopped green onion and cilantro leaves for garnish

Directions:

1. Place garlic, sesame oil, sesame seeds, rice wine vinegar, bouillon powder, brown sugar, lemon juice, ginger paste, and Acc'ent in a mortar and use a pestle to mash everything until smooth.
2. Taste the paste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Put the cabbage in a bowl and pour the prepared dressing over it.
4. Toss the cabbage and dressing together until the cabbage is evenly coated.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and green onions on top before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	124	-
Total Fat	9g	12%
Saturated Fat	1g	6%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	511mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	10g	4%
Dietary Fiber	3g	11%
Total Sugars	4g	-
Protein	3g	5%
Vitamin C	45mg	49%
Calcium	108mg	8%
Iron	1mg	6%
Potassium	277mg	6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Recipe developed by: LaDonna Langwell

History and Origin

The dish "Ginger Sesame Cabbage" is a flavorful, modern take on traditional Asian-style cabbage dishes. While the exact origins of this recipe are unclear, it draws inspiration from East Asian culinary traditions, where both ginger and sesame are commonly used in cooking. These ingredients have deep roots in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisines. Sesame seeds and sesame oil are particularly essential in these regions, valued not only for their rich flavor but also for their health benefits. Ginger, with its aromatic spice, has been used in Asian cooking for thousands of years, often valued for its medicinal properties. This dish likely evolved as a fusion of these ingredients, bringing together healthful, vibrant flavors in an accessible and simple side dish.

Regional Variations

The recipe for Ginger Sesame Cabbage may vary depending on the region. In some areas, particularly in Japan, you may find a sweeter version of the dressing, where the balance between vinegar and sugar is more pronounced. In other regions, such as Korea, a spicier variation might be made with the addition of chili paste or hot pepper flakes. The cabbage itself may be prepared in slightly different waysshredded finely for a salad-like texture or left in larger chunks for a more hearty presentation. Sesame oils smokiness and depth of flavor make it a signature ingredient across all variations, tying the dish together with its distinctly nutty aroma.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets Ginger Sesame Cabbage apart from other cabbage dishes is its unique dressing. Many cabbage recipes simply use vinegar and oil for the dressing, but this one incorporates sesame oil, sesame seeds, and ginger paste, creating a bolder, more complex flavor. The use of chicken bouillon powder also adds a savory depth, setting it apart from more basic slaws. In contrast to classic coleslaw, which is often creamy and tangy, this recipe is lighter and more aromatic, with a noticeable balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes. The mashed ginger and garlic base also gives it a more rustic texture compared to smoother dressings found in other cabbage dishes.

Where It's Typically Served

Ginger Sesame Cabbage is typically served as a side dish, often alongside grilled meats, rice, or noodles. Its fresh and vibrant flavors make it an excellent accompaniment to richer, heavier dishes, balancing out the meal with its lightness and zest. Its a popular dish in both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings, particularly in American or fusion-style Asian cuisine. This dish can also be served at potlucks, barbecues, or even as a refreshing salad during warmer months. In many ways, it serves as a healthy alternative to other heavier sides like creamy coleslaw or mashed potatoes.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of ginger and sesame oil is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion and reducing inflammation.
• Sesame seeds have been cultivated for over 3,000 years, making them one of the oldest known oilseeds in human history.
• Ginger has long been used as a medicinal plant in East Asia, believed to help with nausea, digestive issues, and even reduce muscle pain.
• Though this dish is a side, it can also be eaten on its own as a light lunch or snack, offering a quick, nutritious option packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Conclusion

Ginger Sesame Cabbage is a versatile and delightful dish that celebrates the bold flavors of Asian cuisine while being easy to prepare. Whether you're looking to add a refreshing side to your dinner or explore a new way to enjoy cabbage, this recipe provides a satisfying, healthy option thats sure to impress. The dish's fusion of flavors and texturesfrom the crunch of cabbage to the richness of sesameoffers a perfect balance of taste, nutrition, and cultural tradition.

FAQ about Ginger Sesame Cabbage Recipe