If you’re a lover of vegan food or are just trying to reduce your meat consumption, then cabbage makes an excellent staple in your diet. This leafy vegetable is high in fiber and vitamin C, making it a perfect ingredient for any vegan recipe. Cabbage is also versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, from stir-fries and soups to salads and sandwiches. In this article, we’ll be sharing some delicious vegan cabbage recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Introduction to Vegan Cabbage Recipes
If you’re looking for a versatile ingredient that can add both flavor and texture to your vegan dishes, look no further than cabbage. This cruciferous vegetable is packed with nutrients and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and slaws to soups and stews. Plus, it’s generally available year-round and affordable, making it a great choice for anyone on a budget. In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of using cabbage in your vegan recipes and share some delicious ideas to get you started.
The Health Benefits of Cabbage
Cabbage is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here are some of the key health benefits of incorporating cabbage into your diet:
- Rich in vitamin C: Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, which acts as an antioxidant in the body and supports a healthy immune system.
- Helps with digestion: The high fiber content in cabbage can help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
- May reduce inflammation: Cabbage contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
- May support weight loss: Thanks to its low calorie and high fiber content, cabbage can help you feel full without adding excess calories to your diet, which can be helpful for weight loss or maintenance.
With all these health benefits, it’s no wonder that cabbage is such a popular ingredient in vegan cooking. Here are some creative cabbage recipes to try for a healthy and tasty meal:
Health Benefits of Eating Cabbage
If you’re looking for a nutritious and versatile vegetable to incorporate into your vegan diet, you can’t go wrong with cabbage. Whether raw or cooked, cabbage is a great source of vitamins and minerals that can support your overall health and well-being. Here are just a few of the amazing health benefits of eating cabbage.
Rich in Nutrients
One of the biggest advantages of including cabbage in your meals is that it packs a lot of nutrients into a small serving size. Half a cup of cooked cabbage provides almost 50% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C, an essential vitamin that supports your immune system and helps your body absorb iron. Cabbage is also a good source of vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting, and vitamin B6, which is involved in the creation of neurotransmitters.
Additionally, cabbage contains several important minerals, including potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure, and calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth. And with just 22 calories per half cup, cabbage is a low-calorie way to get all these valuable nutrients.
Cancer-Fighting Properties
Another reason cabbage is such a healthy choice is that it contains compounds with anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that eating cruciferous vegetables like cabbage may lower the risk of certain types of cancer, including lung, colorectal, and breast cancer. This is thought to be due to the presence of compounds called glucosinolates, which help neutralize carcinogens in the body.
What’s more, cabbage also contains antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can reduce inflammation in the body and may also lower the risk of developing cancer.
How to Incorporate Cabbage into Your Diet
- Add shredded cabbage to salads for a crunchy texture
- Slice cabbage thinly and use it as a low-carb wrap for sandwiches or tacos
- Cook cabbage with other vegetables for a healthy side dish
- Make cabbage soup or stew for a comforting meal
- Use fermented cabbage (such as sauerkraut or kimchi) as a flavorful condiment
No matter how you choose to eat it, cabbage is a delicious and nutritious addition to any vegan meal plan. So go ahead and experiment with new ways to enjoy this versatile veggie!
Easy Vegan Cabbage Recipes for Beginners
If you are new to a plant-based diet, finding delicious and easy recipes to cook may feel daunting. Cabbage, a cruciferous vegetable, is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in many vegan dishes. This article will provide you with three easy vegan cabbage recipes that are perfect for beginners.
Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food that can be easily adapted to a vegan diet. To make this dish, you will need:
- 1 large cabbage
- 1 cup rice, cooked
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil cabbage for 3-5 minutes, until soft enough to roll. Remove from water and drain.
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
- Add the cooked rice, salt and pepper, and 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce to the pan. Mix well.
- Carefully separate cabbage leaves. Place a spoonful of the rice mixture onto each leaf and roll tightly.
- Place cabbage rolls seam side down in a baking dish. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the top.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F for 20-30 minutes, until the cabbage rolls are heated through.
Enjoy this delicious and easy vegan cabbage recipe that is perfect for beginners.
Stuffed Cabbage
If you enjoyed the cabbage rolls, you may also like stuffed cabbage. The ingredients are similar, but the preparation is slightly different.
- 1 large cabbage
- 1 cup rice, cooked
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil cabbage for 3-5 minutes, until soft enough to stuff. Remove from water and drain.
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
- Add the cooked rice, salt and pepper, and 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce to the pan. Mix well.
- Carefully remove the center of the cabbage, creating space for the stuffing.
- Stuff the rice mixture into the cabbage, placing the remaining leaves on top to seal the stuffing inside.
- Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the baking dish, along with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F for 20-30 minutes, until the stuffed cabbage is heated through.
Enjoy this delicious and comforting vegan stuffed cabbage recipe that is sure to impress your taste buds.
Cabbage Soup
If you are looking for an easy and warming soup, try this hearty vegan cabbage soup.
- 1 head of cabbage, shredded
- 4 large carrots, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
- Add shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well.
- Cover and simmer until the cabbage and carrots are completely cooked and tender, about 20-30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Enjoy this easy and healthy vegan cabbage soup that can be a perfect meal on a cold winter’s day.
Creative Vegan Cabbage Recipes
Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you prefer it raw or cooked, cabbage adds a delicious crunch to any dish. It’s also a great source of nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. If you’re looking for new and exciting ways to incorporate cabbage into your diet, try out these creative vegan cabbage recipes.
Crispy Cabbage Tacos
Who says tacos have to be made with meat? These crispy cabbage tacos are a delicious and healthy alternative. To make them, you’ll need:
- 1 head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Tortillas
To prepare the tacos, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened. Add the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper and cook for an additional minute. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until it becomes crispy and tender. Warm the tortillas and fill them with the cabbage mixture. Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as avocado, salsa, and cilantro.
Stir-Fry With Cabbage and Tofu
This savory and delicious stir-fry is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. To make it, you’ll need:
- 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 1 head of green cabbage, shredded
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To prepare the stir-fry, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until crispy. Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened. Add the shredded cabbage and continue to cook until it becomes tender. Add the crispy tofu back into the skillet and stir in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Cook for an additional minute or until the flavors have combined. Serve hot with rice or noodles, if desired.
Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
This simple and refreshing slaw is perfect for a summer barbecue or as a side dish for any meal. To make it, you’ll need:
- 1 head of green cabbage, shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup of mayo (vegan or regular)
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of honey (vegan or regular)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To prepare the slaw, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss to combine. Chill the slaw in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Cabbage Rolls With Quinoa and Lentils
These hearty and flavorful cabbage rolls are perfect for a winter evening. To make them, you’ll need:
- 1 head of cabbage
- 1 cup of quinoa
- 1 cup of lentils, cooked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To prepare the cabbage rolls, preheat the oven to 375°F. Remove the leaves from the head of cabbage and cut out the tough center rib from each leaf. In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, lentils, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spoon some of the mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up tightly. Place the rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls and drizzle with the olive oil. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Serve hot.
Gluten-Free Vegan Cabbage Recipes
If you’re looking for delicious and healthy vegan meals that are also gluten-free, look no further than these tasty cabbage-based recipes. With a plethora of vitamins and minerals, cabbage is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can easily be incorporated into many dishes. Here are some recipes that highlight the best of cabbage in gluten-free vegan-friendly ways.
Cabbage Soup
Warm and comforting, cabbage soup is an excellent meal for colder days. To make a gluten-free version, simply omit any flour or wheat-based thickeners, and ensure that any stock used is also gluten-free. Here is a delicious recipe for a vegan cabbage soup:
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 head cabbage, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over medium-high heat until translucent. Add the vegetable broth, water, bay leaf, chopped cabbage, carrots, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley.
Cabbage Skillet
This recipe for a cabbage skillet is quick, easy, and full of flavor. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover cabbage you might have. Here’s how to make it:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head cabbage, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is softened. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to wilt. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cover the skillet and continue to cook until the cabbage is fully cooked. Remove from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar. Serve hot.
Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food that can be made in a gluten-free vegan version. Here is a recipe for cabbage rolls that omits any wheat-based ingredients.
- 12 large cabbage leaves
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and mashed
- 1 onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the cabbage leaves until they are tender and pliable. Set them aside. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked rice, mashed chickpeas, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Spread out a cabbage leaf and spoon some of the rice mixture onto it. Roll up the leaf, tucking in the sides as you go, and place it into a baking dish. Repeat this process until all the filling is used up. In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce and vegetable broth. Pour this mixture over the cabbage rolls. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are fully cooked.
Cabbage Stir-Fry
A stir-fry is always a great option for an easy and healthy weeknight meal. This recipe for a cabbage stir-fry is both gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a perfect option for many dietary restrictions.
- 1 head cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
In a large skillet or wok, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over high heat until the onion is translucent. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally. Add in the chickpeas, bell pepper, and snow peas. Stir-fry for a few more minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup (if using), salt and pepper. Pour this over the veggies and stir to combine. Serve hot.
Cabbage-Based Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious people. They are packed with probiotics and other nutrients that are beneficial to the body. Fermentation is a process that preserves food and gives it a tangy and delicious flavor. Cabbage is a versatile and readily available ingredient that is perfect for fermenting.
The Benefits of Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that live in your gut. These bacteria help break down food and improve overall digestion. They also help boost your immune system by fighting off harmful pathogens. Fermented foods are also packed with other nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients help keep your body healthy and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Cabbage-Based Fermented Recipes
Cabbage is a great ingredient for making fermented foods. Its mild flavor and high water content make it perfect for creating tangy and crunchy sauerkraut or spicy and pungent kimchi. Here are two easy and delicious recipes that you can try:
-
Sauerkraut Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp sea salt
Instructions:
- Place the sliced cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt.
- Massage the cabbage until it starts to release its juices.
- Transfer the cabbage and its juices to a clean jar or crock.
- Weight the cabbage down with a plate or a small jar filled with water.
- Cover the jar or crock with a loose lid or a cloth to allow air to circulate.
- Let the sauerkraut ferment for 1-4 weeks, depending on your taste preferences.
- Once it is ready, store the sauerkraut in the fridge.
Enjoy your tangy and crunchy sauerkraut as a side dish, in a sandwich, or with sausage. It is a great source of probiotics and other nutrients that aid in digestion.
-
Kimchi Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 head Napa cabbage, chopped
- 1/4 cup Korean chili powder
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce (for vegan version)
- 1 tbsp sea salt
Instructions:
- Place the chopped cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt.
- Massage the cabbage until it starts to release its juices.
- Add the chili powder, ginger, garlic, and fish sauce (or soy sauce) to the cabbage and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture and its juices to a clean jar or crock.
- Weight the cabbage down with a plate or a small jar filled with water.
- Cover the jar or crock with a loose lid or a cloth to allow air to circulate.
- Let the kimchi ferment for 1-4 weeks, depending on your taste preferences.
- Once it is ready, store the kimchi in the fridge.
Enjoy your spicy and flavorful kimchi as a side dish, in a salad, or on top of noodles. It is a great source of probiotics and other nutrients that boost your immune system.
Vegan Cabbage Recipes FAQs
Are you looking for delicious and healthy vegan cabbage recipes? Cabbage is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be transformed into a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to soups. Here are some frequently asked questions about vegan cabbage dishes:
How do I store leftover cabbage?
If you have leftover cabbage, it’s important to store it properly to keep it fresh and crispy. The best way to store leftover cabbage is to wrap it in plastic wrap or a damp towel and place it in the refrigerator. This will help prevent it from drying out and becoming limp. You can also store chopped cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
What are the best vegan protein options to pair with cabbage-based dishes?
Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, it’s important to pair it with protein-rich foods to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some vegan protein options that pair well with cabbage:
- Tempeh or tofu: These plant-based proteins can be cooked in a variety of ways, from stir-fries to curries. They are also a great source of protein, iron, and calcium.
- Chickpeas or lentils: These legumes are a great source of protein, fiber, and iron. They can be added to salads, soups, or stews.
- Quinoa or brown rice: These whole grains are packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. They can be used as a base for cabbage-based bowls or stir-fries.
- Nuts or seeds: These crunchy toppings add texture and flavor to cabbage-based dishes. They are also a great source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Can I use cabbage in place of lettuce in salads?
Yes, cabbage can be used as a base for salads instead of lettuce. It has a crunchy and refreshing texture that pairs well with a variety of toppings, such as nuts, seeds, avocado, and citrus fruits. To make a cabbage-based salad, simply chop the cabbage into thin strips and mix it with your favorite dressing and toppings.
What are some vegan cabbage soup recipes?
Cabbage soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for cold weather. Here are some vegan cabbage soup recipes to try:
Cabbage Soup Recipe Ingredients Instructions Cabbage and White Bean Soup – 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 head cabbage, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
2. Add onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Add vegetable broth, white beans, cabbage, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Spicy Cabbage Soup – 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 head cabbage, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
2. Add onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Add vegetable broth, cabbage, tomatoes, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Can I make vegan cabbage rolls?
Yes, you can make vegan cabbage rolls by using plant-based fillings, such as lentils, quinoa, or tofu. Here’s a simple vegan cabbage roll recipe:
Vegan Cabbage Roll Recipe Ingredients Instructions Vegan Cabbage Rolls – 1 head cabbage
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Remove the core from the cabbage and steam the leaves until tender.
3. In a large bowl, mix together lentils, brown rice, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Place a spoonful of the filling on each cabbage leaf and roll up.
5. Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sauce.Happy Cooking with Vegan Cabbage Recipes!
It’s been a pleasure sharing some of my favorite vegan cabbage recipes with you! I hope you’ve found some delicious inspiration here. Remember, eating vegan doesn’t have to be boring or tasteless. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can whip up truly amazing meals that are healthy, flavorful, and satisfying. Thanks for reading, and be sure to visit again soon for more culinary adventures!