Popularized by the cabbage soup diet, cabbages are finally receiving the attention they really deserve. These nutritious vegetables are filled with everything from vitamins to antioxidants, and have healing properties too. Although many would like to incorporate cabbage into their diets, they’re still put off by the sulphuric smell that is all too common with these vegetables. However, if you learn how to cook cabbage the right way, it can be a delicious, healthy and scent-free addition to your menu.
Nutrients in Cabbage
Experts believe that green, leafy vegetables are best for your health, and cabbage is no exception. It boasts high antioxidant content and is a rich source of vitamins C and K. It comes highly recommended for diabetics for its ability to lower blood sugar, and is considered to be a top negative calorie food for weight loss. The sulphuric smell that many dread is actually from the mineral sulphur, which is surprisingly good for your hair, skin and nails.
How to Cook Cabbage the Right Way
When cabbage is cooked properly, it is tender and tasty with a mild aroma. Cabbage leaves can be boiled, braised, sautéed and roasted in the oven.
Prepping
To cut cabbage, first remove the large, loose leaves, unless it has already been done at the store. Grab a large knife and saw the cabbage in half and then quarters. Cut into strips lengthwise. Cabbage leaves should be groovy and slightly pale.
How to Cook Cabbage by Boiling
Fill a pot with water, about ½ inch. Add cabbage and bring to the boil. When it’s start boiling, turn heat down to low and allow it to simmer until tender. Feel free to season with salt and spices while it is cooking. You can make a delicious cabbage soup using this method.
How to Cook Cabbage by Braising
Step 1:
Braising is cooking cabbage halfway without losing its crunch. To braise, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add cabbage and brown the leaves lightly.
Step 2:
Pour ½ -1 cup of water into the pan and boil for 5 minutes. Drain, add seasoning and serve.
How to Cook Cabbage by Sautéing
Step 1:
Heat 3-4 tablespoons of cooking oil or butter in a pan. Sauté a handful of chopped onions and garlic if preferred.
Step 2:
Add cabbage and sprinkle a bit of salt for seasoning. Coat with oil and reduce heat to medium low. If the cabbage starts to dry out, add 1-2 tablespoons of water and stir. Cook until soft and serve.
How to Cook Cabbage by Oven-Roasting
Step 1:
Cut cabbage into 1-inch slices and preheat oven to 400 F.
Step 2:
Mix a tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Lightly brush both sides of cabbage with the seasoning mix.
Step 3:
Bake until the edges of cabbage slices turn brown. Serve.
Learning how to cook cabbage using different methods is fun, tasty and fast. Boiled cabbage is best for soups while braised leaves make great coleslaw and salads. You can serve sautéed cabbage as a side dish or add roasted cabbage to pork chops, steak cuts and veggie casseroles.
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