9 Tasty Ways to Cook with Cabbage

Delicious Recipes and Tips

Cabbage often finds itself in the spotlight as a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can complement a myriad of dishes. While it is a staple in many traditional cuisines, some may overlook its potential for variety in daily meals. Unlocking its full culinary potential can transform simple dinners into delightful, low-cost feasts.

Whether it's adding a crunchy texture to salads, a hearty base for soups, or an essential ingredient in savory rolls, cabbage proves to be more than just a side dish. Through exploring creative methods of cooking with cabbage, anyone can discover new flavors and health benefits, making it a must-have in the kitchen.

1) Roasted Cabbage Wedges

Roasted cabbage wedges are a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Preheat the oven to 450°F. While the oven heats, cut a head of cabbage into 8 equally-sized wedges, keeping some core to ensure the leaves stay intact.

Brush the wedges with olive oil on all sides. Season with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

Bake the cabbage wedges for 20 minutes. Flip them carefully with a spatula, then bake for another 10-15 minutes. This ensures even browning and a crispy texture. The edges should turn golden and slightly charred.

For an added kick, brush the wedges with a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and grated parmesan cheese before roasting. This adds layers of flavor.

Serve the roasted cabbage wedges with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. They make an excellent side dish for any meal, offering a blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors.

2) Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for family dinners. Typically, they consist of cabbage leaves filled with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings.

To prepare, start by boiling the cabbage leaves until they’re pliable. This process takes about 6-8 minutes. Rinse the leaves with cold water and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.

For the filling, combine cooked rice with ground beef or pork, onions, garlic, and spices. Some recipes also add a bit of tomato sauce or paste to the mixture.

Place a generous spoonful of filling onto each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over and roll them up tightly, placing them seam side down in a baking dish.

Cover the rolls with a tomato-based sauce, which can be made by blending tomato soup or sauce with a bit of broth. Cover the dish with foil to keep the rolls moist while baking.

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the cabbage rolls for about one hour or until they are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes or a side salad.

3) Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

The combination of cabbage and sausage in a skillet is a hearty, delicious dish that can be quickly prepared.

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil and sliced sausage, allowing it to brown on both sides, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside.

Add more oil to the skillet along with minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Then, add shredded cabbage, along with salt and pepper. Stir the cabbage frequently, ensuring it becomes well-coated with the oil and starts to soften.

Reintroduce the browned sausage to the skillet. Mix well to combine the sausage with the softened cabbage. For extra flavor, consider adding ingredients like sliced onions, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a splash of chicken stock.

The result is a well-balanced dish with savory sausage and tender cabbage. It's versatile and can be easily adjusted to fit different taste preferences by varying spices and additional ingredients.

Enjoy this simple, yet flavorful, dish that brings the robust flavors of sausage and the subtle, tender nature of cabbage together in perfect harmony.

4) Korean Kimchi

Korean Kimchi is a staple in Korean cuisine, known for its spicy and tangy flavor. Made from fermented napa cabbage and a variety of spices, it adds a unique taste to many dishes.

The preparation involves fermenting napa cabbage with ingredients like garlic, ginger, chili pepper, and fish sauce. This process not only enhances the flavor but also adds beneficial probiotics.

Kimchi can be eaten on its own as a side dish or incorporated into various recipes. It pairs well with Korean BBQ, stews, and fried rice.

For those looking to make kimchi at home, there are many recipes available that range from quick versions to traditional methods. Each offers a different flavor experience.

Cooking with kimchi provides an opportunity to explore the rich culinary traditions of Korea. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

5) Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is a comforting, nutritious dish that is easy to prepare. It combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and hearty meal.

To start, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they soften. This forms the base flavor of the soup.

Next, incorporate diced carrots and celery into the pot. These vegetables add both flavor and texture. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.

Now, stir in minced garlic and ground spices like salt, pepper, and optionally fennel seeds for a unique twist. Adding the spices at this stage helps release their full flavor.

Add sliced cabbage to the pot. Stir well to ensure it mixes with the other ingredients. Let the cabbage cook down slightly.

Pour in your choice of broth—vegetable or chicken works well—and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook until all the vegetables are tender, typically 20-25 minutes.

Before serving, a splash of lemon juice can be added to brighten the flavors. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This simple, yet delicious cabbage soup is ready to be enjoyed.

6) Coleslaw with Tangy Dressing

Coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that pairs well with many meals. Using a tangy dressing elevates its flavor and makes it more interesting.

To prepare the dressing, start by whisking together apple cider vinegar, celery seeds, dry mustard, salt, and a few grinds of pepper in a large bowl.

While whisking, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the mixture is well combined. For added richness, you can use mayonnaise instead of oil.

In another bowl, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, and thinly sliced red onion. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Serve chilled as a side dish for barbecues or grilled meats. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

7) Cabbage Stir-Fry with Tofu

Cabbage stir-fry with tofu is a quick, nutritious dish that highlights the versatility of both ingredients. Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes and coat with cornstarch and salt for added crispiness.

In a wok, heat oil over medium-high heat and pan-fry the tofu until golden brown on all sides. Remove the tofu from the wok and set aside.

Add some more oil if needed, then stir-fry garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add sliced cabbage and cook for a few minutes until it starts to soften. For extra flavor, include sliced mushrooms or bell peppers.

Return the tofu to the wok and mix it with the vegetables. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of water. Stir-fry for a few more minutes until everything is well coated and the cabbage is tender.

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of green onions or a few basil leaves for a fresh touch. Serve immediately, pairing with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

8) Cabbage and Apple Salad

Cabbage and apple salad offers a refreshing mix of flavors and textures. Savoy or Napa cabbage works well, providing a tender crunch. Apples add sweetness and crisp bites.

To start, thinly slice the cabbage and chop the apples. A vinaigrette made from cider vinegar and olive oil enhances the salad. Adding a touch of honey or maple syrup balances the flavors.

For added complexity, incorporate toasted walnuts and crumbled Gorgonzola or cheddar cheese. The nuts provide a rich, earthy flavor, while the cheese brings a creamy contrast.

Mix the ingredients in a large bowl, ensuring they are well combined. Let the salad sit for about 10 to 20 minutes before serving to allow the cabbage to soften slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Optionally, including parsley or dried cherries can add a vibrant, herbal note or a hint of tartness respectively. This salad makes an excellent side dish for various meals, offering both nutrition and taste.

9) Fried Cabbage and Bacon

Fried cabbage and bacon is a satisfying dish that brings out the best flavors in both ingredients. Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet until crisp. Remove the bacon and set it aside, but keep the bacon drippings in the skillet.

Add chopped onions to the hot skillet and cook until they turn translucent. Next, introduce minced garlic, allowing it to become fragrant. Toss in shredded cabbage, stirring to coat it in the flavorful bacon drippings and onions.

Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and your choice of additional spices like paprika or onion powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender and slightly caramelized. This usually takes around 10-12 minutes.

Once the cabbage is tender, crumble the cooked bacon and mix it back into the skillet. Ensure everything is well combined and heated through. Adjust the seasoning according to taste.

Serve the fried cabbage and bacon warm as a hearty side dish or a simple main course. This dish pairs well with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a comforting meal.

Health Benefits of Cabbage

Cabbage offers a range of health benefits, such as providing a high nutrient density, rich antioxidant properties, and aiding in digestion. Each aspect contributes uniquely to overall well-being.

Nutritional Profile

Cabbage is packed with essential nutrients. It is low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals. A serving of cabbage provides vitamins C and K, along with significant amounts of fiber, manganese, and folate.

The presence of vitamin C helps in boosting immunity, while vitamin K plays a critical role in blood clotting. Fiber aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, aiding weight management. Additionally, the folate is important for cell division and DNA synthesis.

Antioxidant Properties

Cabbage is rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and reduce oxidative stress. The antioxidants include polyphenols and sulfur compounds, with red cabbage notably high in anthocyanins. These compounds protect cells from damage by neutralizing free radicals.

The presence of these antioxidants also supports skin health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The sulfur compounds in cabbage, particularly glucosinolates, have been studied for their potential anti-cancer properties.

Role in Digestion

Cabbage supports digestive health due to its high fiber content. Fiber aids in regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation.

It also contains insoluble fiber, which provides bulk to the stool and aids in gut health. Additionally, cabbage contains small amounts of prebiotics, which foster a healthy gut microbiome. This can improve nutrient absorption and overall digestive efficiency.

By incorporating cabbage into a daily diet, one can benefit from improved digestion and a healthier gastrointestinal tract. Regular consumption can alleviate issues such as bloating and promote a balanced gut microbiota.

Best Cooking Methods for Cabbage

When cooking cabbage, techniques like steaming and sauteing allow you to maximize flavor while maintaining nutritional value.

Steaming

Steaming cabbage is a gentle way to cook it while preserving its nutrients and natural flavor. To steam cabbage, cut it into wedges or slices and place it in a steamer basket over boiling water.

Cover and steam for about 5-8 minutes. The cabbage should be tender but still slightly crisp.

Use seasoning like salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance its taste. Steaming retains the vegetable's vibrant color and most of its vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a healthy side dish.

Sauteing

Sauteing cabbage adds depth and a slight caramelization that enhances its natural sweetness. To saute, thinly slice the cabbage. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the cabbage.

Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until the cabbage is tender and lightly browned. Adding ingredients like garlic or onions can provide extra flavor.

A splash of vinegar at the end of cooking can add a tangy finish. This method is great for a quick side that pairs well with a variety of main dishes.