cabbage

Cabbage

Cabbage, a versatile and affordable leafy vegetable, is a staple in cuisines worldwide. Its dense, layered head can range in color from pale green to vibrant purple. Known for its slightly sweet and peppery flavor when raw, cabbage becomes sweeter and more tender when cooked. Different varieties, such as green cabbage, red cabbage, Savoy cabbage, and Napa cabbage, offer subtle variations in taste and texture, making it a great addition to many dishes. Whether you're looking for a healthy side dish, a crunchy slaw ingredient, or the base for a hearty stew, cabbage is a nutritious and adaptable choice.

Common Uses

  • Use shredded raw cabbage as the base for a refreshing coleslaw. Mix finely shredded green or red cabbage with a creamy or vinaigrette-based dressing and other vegetables like carrots and onions for a classic crunchy side dish, ideal for barbecues and picnics.
  • Add chopped cabbage to soups and stews for extra texture and nutrients. Incorporate wedges or shredded cabbage into hearty vegetable soups, beef stew, or chicken noodle soup for a boost of flavor and vitamins. Cabbage holds its shape well during cooking, adding substance to your favorite comforting recipes.
  • Ferment cabbage to create sauerkraut or kimchi, traditional fermented foods known for their probiotic benefits. Transform shredded cabbage into a tangy sauerkraut by fermenting it with salt and spices, or make spicy kimchi by fermenting it with chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. Enjoy these fermented delights as a side dish, condiment, or ingredient in other recipes.
  • Roast cabbage wedges with olive oil and seasonings for a simple and flavorful side dish. Cut cabbage into wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and other herbs or spices, and roast in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage, making it a delicious and healthy accompaniment to any meal.
  • Stuff cabbage leaves with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and vegetables for a comforting and traditional dish. Carefully blanch cabbage leaves to soften them, then fill with a savory mixture of ground meat, cooked rice, onions, and spices. Roll the filled leaves into bundles and bake or simmer in a tomato-based sauce for a satisfying and hearty meal.
  • Sauté shredded cabbage with butter, garlic, and onions for a quick and easy side dish. This is an excellent way to use up leftover cabbage and create a flavorful accompaniment to meats, poultry, or fish. The cabbage will soften and sweeten as it cooks, absorbing the flavors of the butter, garlic, and onions.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

25.0kcal (1.25%)

Protein

1.3g (2.56%)

Carbs

5.8g (2.11%)

Sugars

3.2g (6.4%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Excellent source of vitamin C, boosting the immune system and acting as a powerful antioxidant.
  • Rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and gut health.
  • Contains glucosinolates, which may help protect against certain types of cancer.
  • Good source of vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.
  • Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy addition to weight management diets.
  • Provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, contributing to overall wellness.

Storage Tips

To store cabbage properly, keep it in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. Whole heads of cabbage can last for several weeks if stored dry. Cut cabbage should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within a few days to prevent it from drying out and developing an odor. Avoid washing the cabbage before storing, as moisture can promote spoilage.

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