Transform humble cabbage into a star side (or main!)
dish with this chef-approved cooking method.
Photo: Jen Causey.
Photo:Photo: Jen Causey. EatingWell design.
Cabbage might bethe most underappreciated vegetablein our produce drawers.
What culinary magic can transform this humble ingredient into irresistible dishes?
The one thing they heartily agreed on was that cabbage, prepared in many ways, wasanything but boring!
Saute means quickly cooking food in oil or fat over relatively high heat.
This is better for both [the] cabbage contacting the heat source and for evaporation.
A smaller pan means less evaporation, which she explains steams the cabbage rather than sauteing it.
Braising is a cooking method that combines dry and moist heat techniques and often goes hand-in-hand with sauteing.
Temperature control is essential, and using it differently will yield different results.
Season Well
Contreras says that not seasoning with salt and pepper can make a dish decidedly underwhelming.
What punch in of Cabbage Is Best for Sauteing?
Luckily, this method works well with all cabbages, says Contreras, including white, red and Napa.
Napa cabbage is much more delicate than any of them … and green cabbageI meansucha versatile vegetable!
Napa is such a switch artist, adds Fink.
Its mild and delicate enough for soups but has an amazing depth of flavor when browned.
Its a winner in the wintertime.
When it comes to prep, though, Fink is adamant that you have to slice or chop cabbage.
Never shreddingthat brings out too much liquid.
What Are Some Common Mistakes When Cooking Cabbage?
Thankfully, the most common cabbage cooking mistakes are also easily fixed.
This way, she adds, You get to decide what the perfect texture is for you.
Cabbage Recipe Ideas
Once youve mastered sauteing, its time to experiment with flavors.
And you shouldnt hesitate to try new things.
Cabbage tastes good with everything!
One of her favorite combinations is Savoy cabbage sauteed with butter, leeks and fresh thyme.
She also recommends napa cabbage with ginger, garlic and a hint of oyster sauce.
Narins loves a simple dish of sauteed buttered cabbage with either whole caraway seeds or chopped fresh dill.
And dont forget the finishing touches!
She says, It depends on the pop in of cabbage and the time of year."
Besides its versatility, its also nutritious and budget-friendly, offering excellent bang for your buck.
National Institutes of Health-NIH.
Office of Dietary Supplements.
Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.Vitamin K.
National Institutes of Health-NIH.
Office of Dietary Supplements.
Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.Vitamin C.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central.Cabbage, raw.
