7 Different Types of Cabbages and How to Use Them
Some of these might just surprise you!
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The humble cabbage is one those vegetables that can easily go unnoticed (aside from your classic coleslaw). But the fact is that cabbage is so much more versatile than you might think! Not only can cabbage be sliced for salads, but it can also be roasted, sautéed, or even included in your list of grilling recipes. It can stand on its own in Ree Drummond's cheesy escalloped cabbage or act as a topping for your favorite burgers. And, of course, it plays a big role in traditional Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage. But did you know that there are different types of cabbages depending on the recipe? It's true! Cabbage can range from green and red cabbage to Napa cabbage and even Brussels sprouts—yes, it's a type of cabbage!
While most cabbage recipes will state which type to use, it's important to understand the many varieties of cabbage and what makes them so different. To start, cabbage can come in an assortment of colors (with green and red being the most common) and they can even come in different textures (from smooth to crinkly). Cabbage is part of a plant family, known as Brassica, that includes kale and bok choy, so we included them on this list too. Brassica vegetables are all loaded with good-for-you vitamins and they're a great source of fiber that you should consider adding to your healthy dinners. In fact, go ahead and make stuffed cabbage tonight—just be sure you know which type of cabbage to use. Read on to find out more!
Green Cabbage
You'll often find green cabbage used for classic dishes like coleslaw or stuffed cabbage. With its wide green leaves and smooth texture, it's one type of cabbage that can be found in both raw and cooked recipes. Look for heads that are tightly packed and heavy when you pick them up.
Red Cabbage
The name of this cabbage might be "red," but it actually has more of a purple color. It's similar to green cabbage in that it can be shredded for salads, but it's also a great choice to use as a topping for burgers or chicken tostadas.
Savoy Cabbage
This pretty cabbage has crinkly leaves that sets it apart from the other cabbage varieties. It's also more tender which makes it perfect for sautéing or stir-frying. Try it as a frilly variation in your slow cooker corned beef and cabbage.
Bok Choy
Bok choy is characterized by its distinct green leaves and crisp, white stalk. It's mild and delicate which makes it perfect for quick-cooking methods like stir-frying or steaming.
Napa Cabbage
Don't get this type of cabbage confused with romaine lettuce. Although it has a similar appearance, Napa cabbage (also known as Chinese cabbage) has its own distinct texture and flavor. It's great for eating raw in salads but can also be used in soup recipes or as a filling for dumplings.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts look like adorable mini cabbages. They're grown on large stalks but you'll likely find them sold loose or in bags at the grocery store. They're a popular Thanksgiving side dish, but you can also make them air fryer Brussels sprouts for a quick weeknight dinner.
Kale
Kale, sometimes called leaf cabbage, is known for its dark green, crinkly leaves. The hearty texture holds up well in Ree's Killer Kale Salad (which she calls, "one of my favorite salads in the world") but it's also a healthy addition to skillet lasagna and it can even be used to make crunchy kale chips!
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