Chinese Braised Napa Cabbage with Shrimp
Chinese Braised Napa Cabbage with Shrimp is a savory, comforting stir-fry dish where tender napa cabbage is slow-cooked in a flavorful sauce, often with plump shrimp, garlic, and ginger. This dish is a staple in many Chinese households, particularly in northern China, and is known for its delicate balance of umami and sweetness. It's a simple yet elegant preparation that highlights the natural sweetness of the cabbage and the briny flavor of the shrimp.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a well-balanced meal, providing a good source of protein from the shrimp and fiber from the napa cabbage, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the sauce and any added starches. A typical serving contains around 200-300 calories, making it a nutritious and relatively low-calorie option. It's also rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like potassium and selenium.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Vitamin C | 45 mg |
| Vitamin A | 300 mcg RAE |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
| Magnesium | 30 mg |
| Vitamin K | 50 mcg |
| Folate | 60 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Napa cabbage is a staple in Chinese cuisine, often used in dishes like kimchi and dumplings, and its ability to absorb flavors makes it perfect for braising. This dish is also a great example of the Chinese culinary principle of 'wok hei' or 'breath of the wok,' which refers to the smoky, charred flavor that comes from cooking food in a hot wok. The combination of shrimp and cabbage is a classic pairing in Chinese cooking, reflecting the country's long history of using seafood and vegetables in harmony.
