If you are looking for healthy and nutritious vegan recipes, cabbage is a fantastic option. This cruciferous vegetable is packed with vitamins and minerals, and it can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups to stir-fries. Plus, it’s affordable, widely available, and easy to cook with. In this article, we will share some delicious vegan recipes with cabbage that you can easily make at home. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or just starting to explore plant-based eating, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and keep you fueled throughout the day.
Benefits of Including Cabbage in a Vegan Diet
Cabbage is not only a versatile vegetable that can be used in many different vegan recipes, but it also offers numerous health benefits that make it a great addition to any vegan diet. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy when you include cabbage in your meals:
1. Helps with Weight Loss
One of the biggest benefits of cabbage is that it is low in calories but high in fiber, which means it can help you feel full for longer and prevent overeating. In fact, one cup of chopped cabbage only contains around 22 calories but provides 2 grams of fiber, making it an ideal food for weight loss.
Cabbage also contains compounds called glucosinolates, which can help boost your metabolism and burn fat. Additionally, the high water content in cabbage can help flush out excess fluids in your body, further contributing to weight loss.
If you’re trying to lose weight on a vegan diet, incorporating more cabbage into your meals can be a fantastic way to support your weight loss journey.
2. Promotes Digestive Health
Cabbage is an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for good digestive health. Eating enough fiber can help prevent constipation, bloating, and other digestive issues that can make you feel uncomfortable and unwell.
In addition to fiber, cabbage also contains compounds like sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol, which can help protect the lining of your stomach and reduce your risk of developing stomach ulcers or other digestive problems.
If you want to keep your gut healthy and happy, adding more cabbage to your diet is an excellent place to start.
3. Boosts Immune Function
Another fantastic benefit of cabbage is its high vitamin C content. One cup of chopped cabbage contains around 50% of your daily recommended intake of this essential vitamin, which is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can increase your risk of developing chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, vitamin C can help boost the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and illnesses.
If you want to keep your immune system in top shape, incorporating more cabbage into your meals can be a healthy and delicious way to do it.
4. Provides Antioxidant Benefits
Cabbage is also a great source of antioxidants, which are compounds that can help protect your body from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals.
Antioxidants can help reduce inflammation in your body, lower your risk of developing chronic diseases, and slow down the aging process. Cabbage contains a variety of antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and anthocyanins.
If you want to keep your body healthy and youthful, eating more cabbage can be an excellent way to do so.
Overview of Different Types of Cabbage
Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be used in countless dishes and is known for its iconic shape and distinct flavor. There are several different types of cabbage, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. Depending on the type of cabbage, it can be eaten raw or cooked and used in a variety of different dishes. In this article, we will provide you an overview of the different types of cabbage and how you can use them in vegan recipes.
Green Cabbage
One of the most common types of cabbage is green cabbage. It has a pale green color and a dense texture. Green cabbage has a slightly bitter taste, which makes it a great addition to salads and coleslaws. It can also be boiled or sautéed and added to dishes like stir fry or soup.
Red Cabbage
Red cabbage has a vibrant purple color and a more tender texture compared to green cabbage. It has a slightly sweeter and milder flavor, which makes it a great option for raw salads or slaws. Red cabbage can also be roasted, grilled, or sautéed and used in recipes like veggie tacos or grain bowls.
Savoy Cabbage
Savoy cabbage has a crinkle texture and a softer, milder flavor compared to other types of cabbage. It is often used in stir fry or added to soups and stews. Savoy cabbage can also be used as a wrap for vegan sushi or spring rolls.
Napa Cabbage
Napa cabbage, or Chinese cabbage, has a mild and slightly sweet flavor with a crunchy texture. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine as a wrap for dumplings, or added to stir fry and noodle dishes. Napa cabbage is also great in salads and slaws.
How to Use Different Types of Cabbage in Vegan Recipes
- Green cabbage can be used in vegan tacos, coleslaws, stir fry, soups, and stews.
- Red cabbage is great in salads, slaws, roasted, grilled or sautéed in recipes like veggie tacos or grain bowls.
- Savoy cabbage is versatile and can be used in stir fry, soups, stews or as a wrap for vegan sushi or spring rolls.
- Napa cabbage is delicious in Asian cuisine as a wrap for dumplings, in stir fry or noodle dishes, or in salads and slaws.
10 Delicious Vegan Recipes with Cabbage
Cabbage is a staple food in many cultures around the world and is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many dishes. If you’re looking for delicious vegan recipes with cabbage, you’re in luck! Here are ten vegan cabbage recipes that are sure to please your taste buds.
Vegan Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls are a classic dish that can be easily adapted for vegans. To make these vegan cabbage rolls, you’ll need chopped onions, garlic, cooked rice, tomato sauce, and of course, cabbage. To make the filling, combine the cooked rice, onions, garlic, and seasonings. Then, fill the cabbage leaves with the mixture and bake for thirty minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Stir-Fry with Cabbage and Tofu
This is a quick and easy recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Begin by cooking your favorite grain, such as brown rice or quinoa. Then, sauté some garlic, ginger, sliced cabbage, and tofu in a wok or frying pan. Add your favorite sauce, and voila! You have a delicious and healthy meal.
Vegan Stuffed Cabbage Soup
This soup is hearty, healthy, and delicious. Begin by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in a large pot. Add canned tomatoes, cabbage, vegetable broth, and your favorite seasonings. Let it simmer for thirty minutes, then add cooked rice or quinoa. This recipe is perfect for a cold winter night!
Cabbage and Sweet Potato Curry
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp. fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp. curry powder
- 1 tsp. turmeric
- 1/2 head cabbage, chopped
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 can coconut milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
This vegan curry recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. Begin by sautéing onion, garlic, and ginger in a large pot. Add curry powder and turmeric, then add chopped cabbage and diced sweet potato. Pour in a can of coconut milk and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
- 1/4 head cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1 tbsp. lemon juice
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
This is a simple and refreshing recipe that is perfect for a summer barbecue. Combine thinly sliced cabbage and grated carrots in a large bowl. Add lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Serve chilled.
Cabbage and Mushroom Soup
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 head cabbage, chopped
- 8 oz. sliced mushrooms
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
This vegan soup recipe is perfect for a cold winter day. Begin by sautéing onion and garlic in a large pot. Add chopped cabbage, sliced mushrooms, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, then serve hot.
Spicy Cabbage Stir-Fry
- 1/2 head cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp. sriracha sauce
- 1 tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 tsp. sesame oil
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
This spicy cabbage stir-fry is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Begin by sautéing onion, garlic, and cabbage in a large frying pan. Add sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cabbage and Lentil Stew
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 head cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup brown lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
This vegan stew recipe is hearty and delicious. Begin by sautéing onion and garlic in a large pot. Add chopped cabbage, brown lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, then serve hot.
Cabbage and Chickpea Salad
- 1/2 head cabbage, chopped
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
This vegan salad recipe is fresh and healthy. Begin by combining chopped cabbage, chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, and parsley in a large bowl. Add lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine, and serve chilled.
How to Prepare Cabbage for Cooking
Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw, cooked, or fermented to make different dishes. It is also a great ingredient for vegan recipes. To get the most out of this nutrient-packed vegetable, here are some tips for preparing it for cooking:
Cleaning Cabbage
It is essential to clean cabbage thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or insects. First, remove the outermost layer of leaves and discard them. Rinse the cabbage under running water, making sure to get rid of any dirt or debris stuck between the leaves. If you are using the cabbage for a salad, you can cut it into slices or chop it into smaller pieces after cleaning it.
Cutting Cabbage
Cabbage can be cut in various ways depending on the recipe. The most common way is to cut the cabbage in half and then remove the core. You can also cut it into wedges or shred it into thin strips. If you are making stuffed cabbage leaves, you can carefully remove the leaves whole to use as a wrapper.
Cooking Cabbage
Cabbage can be cooked in many ways, including roasting, sautéing, boiling, and steaming. To keep the cabbage crunchier and retain its nutrients, it is recommended to cook it for a short time instead of overcooking it. Adding vinegar or lemon juice to the cabbage while cooking can help retain its vibrant color and add a tangy flavor.
Fermenting Cabbage
If you want to try something different, fermenting cabbage to make sauerkraut or kimchi is an excellent option. To ferment cabbage, shred it finely and then salt it overnight to draw out the moisture. The next day, pack it tightly into a jar with any additional seasonings or spices and leave it to ferment for a few days. The result is a tangy, probiotic-rich food that can be used as a condiment or ingredient in other dishes.
Conclusion
By following these tips for preparing cabbage, you can make the most out of this versatile vegetable in your vegan recipes. Whether you are looking for a crunchy salad, a warm soup, or a tangy ferment, cabbage is an excellent ingredient to add to your dish!
Substituting Cabbage in Non-Vegan Recipes
Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be used as a substitute for meat or dairy in many recipes. Here are some ideas for swapping cabbage in dishes that traditionally include meat or dairy:
Cabbage Lasagna
Lasagna is traditionally made with layers of pasta, meat, and cheese. Swap out the meat and cheese for layers of thinly sliced cabbage, tofu ricotta, and tomato sauce. Top it off with some vegan parmesan cheese and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Cabbage Stir Fry
A stir fry is typically made with meat or seafood, but cabbage can be used as a substitute. Shred the cabbage and stir fry with your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, onions, and carrots. Add some minced garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for flavor.
Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls are traditionally stuffed with ground meat and rice, but you can use a mushroom and rice filling instead. Blanch the cabbage leaves, stuff with the filling, and bake in tomato sauce until tender.
Cabbage and Mushroom Stroganoff
Stroganoff is made with beef and sour cream, but you can use mushrooms and cashew cream instead. Sauté sliced mushrooms and cabbage, and stir in a cashew cream sauce made with soaked cashews, vegetable broth, and nutritional yeast. Serve over egg-free noodles.
Cabbage Soup
Instead of a beef or chicken noodle soup, try making a cabbage soup with vegetable broth, potatoes, carrots, onions, and spices. Add some rice or barley for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vegan Cabbage Recipes
Cabbage is a versatile and healthy vegetable that can be used in many vegan recipes. Here are some common questions and answers about cooking with cabbage in a vegan diet:
Can I make vegan coleslaw without mayo?
Yes, you can easily make a vegan coleslaw without mayo. You can use a vegan mayo substitute made from ingredients like tofu, cashews, or avocado. Alternatively, you can use a dressing made from vinegar, olive oil, mustard, and herbs. There are many recipes available online for vegan coleslaw without mayo.
How can I make a gluten-free cabbage dish?
Making a gluten-free cabbage dish is easy. You can use ingredients like rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta as a base for your dish. You can also use gluten-free bread crumbs or tortilla chips as a topping. There are many gluten-free vegan recipes available online that use cabbage.
What are some ways to cook cabbage?
- Boiling: Boil cabbage leaves in salted water for a few minutes until soft.
- Braising: Cut cabbage into wedges and brown in a pan with oil, then braise in vegetable broth until tender.
- Roasting: Chop cabbage into bite-sized pieces and roast in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper until crispy.
- Stir-frying: Slice cabbage and stir-fry in a pan with other vegetables and herbs.
What are some good flavorings to use with cabbage?
Cabbage has a mild flavor that can be enhanced with different seasonings. Some good flavorings to use with cabbage include:
- Garlic
- Onion
- Ginger
- Herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley
- Soy sauce or tamari
- Vinegar or lemon juice
- Cayenne pepper or paprika
Can I freeze cooked cabbage?
Yes, you can freeze cooked cabbage. Simply let it cool and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Is cabbage a good source of nutrients?
Yes, cabbage is a very nutritious vegetable. It is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin B6. It also contains small amounts of other vitamins and minerals. Eating cabbage regularly can help with digestion, immune function, and heart health.
Enjoy Your Vegan Meals with Cabbage
Thank you for reading about vegan recipes with cabbage today. Incorporating this cruciferous vegetable into your diet can bring a multitude of health benefits, not to mention delicious flavors and textures to your meals. Try out the recipes mentioned above and experiment with your own variations. We hope you found this article helpful, and we invite you to visit us again soon for more exciting vegan food ideas. Happy cooking!