1. Heat oil in a pan. Once it is hot, add mustard seeds. Once they start sputtering, add the cumin seeds and let them sputter too.
2. Add the shredded cabbage, chopped green chilis and tumeric powder. Sprinkle a little water.
3. Cover the pan and steam-cook the cabbage. Stir it every now and then- especially if you are not using a non-stick pan.
4. Add sugar, if using. Add salt, stir the cabbage and steam-cook it until it is as soft as you like it.
5. Garnish with cilantro (coriander) leaves and serve it with chapatis or rice and dal.