What to Do with Cabbage: Easy and Delicious Recipes to Try

Cabbage might not be the star of your fridge, but it’s packed with potential waiting to be explored. You can use cabbage in delicious recipes like coleslaw, stir-fries, or even fermented as sauerkraut, making it a versatile ingredient in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a powerhouse of health benefits, thanks to its rich content of vitamins, fiber, and potassium.

Incorporating cabbage into your meals offers not just flavor, but also boosts your nutrient intake. With high levels of Vitamin K and C, along with plenty of fiber, it’s excellent for digestion and overall health.

Whether you enjoy it raw, cooked, or fermented, cabbage can fit seamlessly into your diet and bring a range of health benefits.

Feeling adventurous? Try roasting cabbage for a different texture or adding it to soups for a hearty touch. You’ll find that this humble vegetable can elevate your meals while keeping them nutritious and satisfying. Get ready to turn that lonely head of cabbage into a tasty dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Selecting and Storing Cabbage

Choosing the right cabbage and knowing how to store it can make a significant difference in freshness and flavor. Here’s what you need to consider when selecting and storing cabbage.

Types of Cabbage

Familiarize yourself with the different types of cabbage, as each variety offers unique flavors and uses.

• Green Cabbage: The most common variety, perfect for salads and coleslaw.
• Red Cabbage: Slightly sweeter and more colorful, great for pickling or adding to salads.
• Savoy Cabbage: Features crinkly leaves and a milder flavor, ideal for stir-fries and soups.
• Napa Cabbage: Known for its tender leaves, this type is often used in Asian dishes and wraps.

Choose the type based on the recipe or dish you have in mind.

Freshness Tips

When selecting cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size. Check the leaves to ensure they are crisp with no signs of wilting or browning. The outer leaves should be tightly wrapped around the head.

To test freshness, you can also try this simple trick: give the cabbage a gentle squeeze. A fresh head should feel solid and resilient. Avoid any heads with soft spots or unpleasant odors, as these can indicate spoilage.

Storage Practices

Proper storage is key to maintaining cabbage’s freshness. Here are some effective tips:

• Refrigeration: Store cabbage in the crisper drawer of your fridge. Keep it in a plastic bag or wrap it in a damp paper towel for extra moisture.
• Temperature: Ideal storage temperature is between 32°F and 40°F (0°C – 4°C).
• Duration: Green cabbage can last up to two weeks, while red cabbage may hold longer, up to three weeks. Use napa cabbage within a week for the best taste.

If you’ve cut or shredded your cabbage, store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.

Health and Nutrition Benefits of Cabbage

Cabbage is packed with essential nutrients and offers various health benefits that can support a balanced diet. Its high vitamin content, fiber, and antioxidant properties contribute to improved well-being.

Nutritional Content

Cabbage is low in calories but high in nutrients. A one-cup serving provides:

• Vitamin C: Essential for immune function.
• Vitamin K: Important for bone health.
• Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure.
• Folate: Supports cell function and tissue growth.

This leafy vegetable also contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice that can fit into various meals. Its versatile nature allows you to incorporate it in salads, soups, or side dishes.

Dietary Fiber and Digestive Health

Cabbage is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health. A cup of shredded cabbage can offer about 2 grams of fiber, helping to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.

Fiber aids in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, further supporting digestion. Additionally, the fiber found in cabbage can help you feel full longer, making it easier to manage your weight.

Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Cabbage contains various antioxidants, such as flavonoids and glucosinolates, which help combat oxidative stress. These compounds can reduce inflammation in your body, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

Regular consumption of cabbage may also help improve heart health and lower the risk of certain cancers due to its ability to fight free radicals. Including cabbage in your diet can provide a tasty way to add these health benefits to your meals.

Cabbage in Cooking

Cabbage offers versatility in the kitchen, making it an excellent ingredient for a variety of dishes. From comforting soups to fresh salads, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.

Classic Recipes

One of the go-to recipes you can try is classic coleslaw. Combine shredded cabbage with carrots and a dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar for a refreshing side dish.

Another favorite is cabbage soup. Cook chopped cabbage with onions, tomatoes, and broth for a hearty meal.

Stuffed cabbage rolls are also popular. Fill boiled cabbage leaves with a mixture of seasoned ground meat and rice, then bake in tomato sauce until bubbly. These dishes are easy to prepare and delicious.

Innovative Ideas

If you’re looking to switch things up, try making cabbage steaks. Slice a head of cabbage into thick rounds, brush with olive oil, and roast until tender. This interesting twist makes for a satisfying side dish.

For a lighter option, consider a cabbage salad. Toss shredded cabbage with fresh herbs, nuts, and a citrus vinaigrette. It’s crunchy and refreshing.

Sautéed cabbage is another innovative approach. Quickly cook chopped cabbage with garlic and spices in a skillet for a flavorful side. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.

Cooking Techniques

You can enhance the flavor of cabbage through various cooking methods. Roasting brings sweetness to the vegetable. Cut the cabbage into wedges, drizzle with olive oil, and roast in the oven at high heat.

Sautéing is another quick technique. Use a hot skillet to cook cabbage until it’s slightly wilted. This maintains its crunch while adding depth with spices.

If you’re in the mood for comfort food, boiling cabbage is effective for dishes like soup or stuffed rolls. Each technique offers a unique taste, so feel free to experiment.

Flavor Combinations and Seasonings

Cabbage is versatile and can absorb flavors well, making it easy to spice things up in your meals. Knowing what to pair with it can elevate your dishes to a new level.

Herbs and Spices

When it comes to seasoning cabbage, garlic and onions are a must. They add depth and aroma that’s hard to beat. Try combining them with thyme for a classic flavor. This herb complements cabbage beautifully, enhancing its natural sweetness.

Don’t forget about other spices like pepper and salt. A little sprinkle of cider vinegar or apple cider vinegar can brighten the dish. If you like a kick, consider adding some hot sauce or a dash of tomato sauce for a different twist. Experiment with these combinations to find what suits your palate best.

Pairing with Proteins

Cabbage pairs wonderfully with various proteins. If you’re cooking chicken, roast it with some cabbage for a one-pan meal. The juices from the chicken will infuse the cabbage with flavor, making each bite delicious.

For pork lovers, sautéing cabbage with bacon adds a smoky richness that’s hard to resist. If you prefer corned beef or beef, try braising them together with cabbage to meld the flavors perfectly.

A little butter or olive oil can help accomplish a nice sauté, giving the dish a rich finish. Remember, the key is to balance the flavors so the cabbage can shine alongside your protein choice.

Serving and Presentation

When it comes to serving cabbage dishes, presentation can elevate your meals from everyday to exciting. The way you plate and serve these dishes can make a big difference in how they’re received. Here are some ideas for various occasions.

Casual Weeknight Dinners

For casual weeknight dinners, keep it simple yet appealing. Try preparing cabbage and sausage stir-fry in a large skillet. Serve it family-style in a colorful bowl. Pair it with mashed potatoes or a simple cabbage salad for balance.

For something quick, tangy coleslaw packs flavor and is easy to toss together. Place it in a chic serving dish; add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch. Sandwiches made with coleslaw and corned beef provide a satisfying and approachable meal.

Cabbage and Sausage Stir-Fry Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced into rounds
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

This adds flavor and helps render some fat from the sausage. Next, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Then, add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir well to combine with the other ingredients. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crunchy.

Drizzle the soy sauce and apple cider vinegar (if using) over the stir-fry, and sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes as well. Stir everything together to ensure even coating.

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot as a main dish or over rice for a complete meal.

Special Occasions

When you’re hosting a special occasion, consider stuffed cabbage or cabbage rolls. Lay them neatly in a large casserole dish and drizzle with a rich tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

A German-inspired dish featuring cabbage can be a fantastic centerpiece. Think of serving sautéed cabbage as a side with sausages and roasted potatoes. Use white or colorful cabbage for visual appeal.

Serving coleslaw in individual cups can make it feel upscale. Add a colorful garnish like shredded carrots or green onions to impress your guests.

Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with or without herbs)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

To start, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, or until the outer leaves start to soften.

Remove the cabbage from the pot and let it cool. Once it’s cool enough to handle, gently peel off the leaves, setting them aside. You will need about 12 large leaves for the rolls.

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll it up tightly, starting from the base of the leaf. Repeat this process with the remaining leaves and filling.

In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce and diced tomatoes over the rolls, ensuring they are well covered.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour. After baking, remove the foil and let the rolls sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Potluck Favorites

For potlucks, cabbage and sausage casseroles stand out. They are hearty and easy to transport. Just cover with foil, and you’re good to go.

Bringing cole slaw is also popular. Make it a little different by adding fruits like apples or raisins for a twist. Present it in a large bowl, allowing guests to serve themselves.

Lastly, if you want to try something unique, a cabbage salad with noodles can be refreshing. Layer it in a clear bowl to showcase the colors. It’s easy to share and always a hit at gatherings!

Cabbage Salad with Noodles Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 cups cooked noodles (such as ramen, soba, or rice noodles)
• 1 cup carrots, grated or julienned
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (any color)
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, cooked noodles, grated carrots, sliced bell pepper, green onions, and chopped cilantro or parsley (if using). Toss the ingredients together until well mixed.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated. Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch and garnish. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cabbage is versatile and you might have some questions on how to make the most of it. Whether you’re looking to fry it, cook it on the stove, or use it for a roast dinner, there are plenty of tasty options.

How can I whip up a tasty fried cabbage dish?

To make a delicious fried cabbage dish, start by slicing the cabbage into thin strips. Heat some oil in a pan, add garlic for flavor, and sauté the cabbage until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of vinegar for added zest.

What are some Indian cabbage recipes I should try out?

Indian cuisine offers some great cabbage dishes. You can try making Cabbage Sabzi, which combines cabbage with spices like turmeric and cumin. Another option is Cabbage Paratha, where you stuff whole wheat flatbreads with spiced cabbage filling before cooking them on a skillet.

Got any tips for cooking cabbage on the stove?

When cooking cabbage on the stove, slice it finely for quicker cooking. Use medium heat, and cover the pan to steam the cabbage while it cooks. Adding a bit of broth or water can help soften it without drying it out, and flavoring it with bacon or herbs adds depth.

Can you suggest ways to use cabbage in a roast dinner?

Cabbage can be a great addition to your roast dinner. Try roasting wedges of cabbage tossed with oil, salt, and pepper. They become crispy on the edges and tender inside. You can also add cabbage to your vegetable medley for the roast, pairing well with carrots and potatoes.

What’s the scoop on using cabbage raw in meals?

Raw cabbage is crunchy and refreshing, making it perfect for salads. You can shred it for coleslaw, mix it with carrots, and toss it in a tangy dressing. Adding some sliced apples or nuts can enhance its flavor and texture.

Is it cool to freeze cabbage without cooking it first?

Yes, you can freeze raw cabbage, but it’s best to blanch it first. Blanching involves boiling the cabbage for a few minutes and then quickly cooling it in ice water. This helps preserve its color, texture, and nutrients when you thaw it later.

Follow my homeschooling and survivalism board on Pinterest.