5 Delicious Cabbage Recipes You Have to Try

Cabbage is an incredibly versatile vegetable, known for its nutritional value and its ability to be used in a wide array of dishes. Whether you're looking to incorporate more greens into your diet or seeking out dishes that cater to different culinary traditions, cabbage has something for everyone. Here, we delve into five delicious cabbage recipes you simply have to try. Each recipe will introduce you to unique flavors and cooking techniques that highlight the humble cabbage in all its glory.

Cabbage Stir-Fry

A quick and easy way to enjoy the natural crunch and nutritional benefits of cabbage, this stir-fry recipe is both tasty and healthy.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• Optional: chicken or tofu for protein

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Start by preparing all your ingredients. Mince garlic, grate ginger, chop vegetables, and if using, slice chicken or tofu.
2. Heat Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add Aromatics: Add garlic and ginger to the hot oil, sautéing until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Cook Vegetables: Introduce carrots and bell pepper, stir-fry for a few minutes, then add the cabbage. Stir-fry until all vegetables are tender yet still have some bite.
5. Season: Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, mix well, and continue cooking for another couple of minutes.
6. Add Protein (Optional): If using chicken or tofu, add it at this point to heat through and absorb flavors.
7. Serve: Serve hot, perhaps over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

🍲 Note: If you want to make this dish even healthier, consider using a lower-sodium soy sauce or tamari, which is also gluten-free.

Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage rolls are a comforting dish enjoyed across various cultures, with each bringing its unique twist to the recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 egg
• Salt, pepper, and any preferred spices
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Prepare Cabbage: Remove core from the cabbage, place in boiling water, and cook until leaves are pliable. Carefully peel off leaves.
2. Make Filling: Mix ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. If desired, add additional spices.
3. Roll: Place a spoonful of filling on each cabbage leaf, tuck in sides, and roll up.
4. Layer: Place seam side down in a baking dish, layering with crushed tomatoes and broth for moisture.
5. Cook: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is cooked through and rolls are tender.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve with a side of sour cream or yogurt.

Cabbage Soup

This hearty cabbage soup is perfect for a cold day or when you’re in the mood for something both filling and light.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cabbage, chopped
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté: In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add Vegetables: Add carrots and potatoes, cook briefly.
3. Combine: Pour in broth, add cabbage, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes to an hour until all vegetables are tender.
5. Serve: Serve hot, adjusting seasoning if necessary.

🌿 Note: For added richness, stir in a handful of chopped greens like spinach or kale at the end of cooking.

Kimchi

Kimchi, the iconic Korean fermented cabbage dish, is not only delicious but also loaded with probiotics beneficial for gut health.

Ingredients:

• 1 Napa cabbage, cut into 2-inch pieces
• ¹⁄₄ cup sea salt
• 4 cups water
• 2 tablespoons sweet rice flour
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 cups Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
• ¹⁄₄ cup fish sauce
• ¹⁄₄ cup minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 scallions, sliced
• 1 cup daikon radish, julienned
• ¹⁄₂ cup carrot, julienned

Instructions:

1. Brine: Dissolve salt in water, immerse cabbage pieces, ensuring they’re submerged. Leave for 6-12 hours.
2. Rinse: Rinse the cabbage thoroughly to remove excess salt, then drain.
3. Make the Paste: Mix rice flour with 1 cup water, bring to a boil, add sugar, cook until thickened. Cool slightly, then mix with gochugaru, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and onion.
4. Combine: Toss cabbage with the paste and other vegetables until well coated.
5. Ferment: Pack into jars, pressing down to remove air pockets. Leave at room temperature for 1-2 days, then refrigerate.

🍜 Note: Always use a clean jar, and if you want to try making kimchi from other veggies like cucumbers or radishes, the process remains similar.

Cabbage Apple Slaw

This vibrant slaw combines sweet and tangy flavors for a refreshing side dish or light lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 2 apples, thinly sliced
• ¹⁄₄ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• ¹⁄₄ cup olive oil
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: carrots, raisins, or nuts for added texture

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cabbage, apples, and any optional ingredients.
2. Dressing: Whisk together vinegar, honey, olive oil, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine: Pour dressing over the slaw, toss well to combine.
4. Serve: Let it sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Summing Up

From the simplicity of a stir-fry to the complex flavors of kimchi, cabbage proves itself as a star ingredient in various cuisines. Whether you’re looking to make a comforting meal or something with a kick, these recipes provide a delightful way to incorporate this versatile vegetable into your diet. Each dish not only offers a unique taste but also brings a health-conscious approach to cooking with natural, wholesome ingredients.