Types of Cabbages

You might be surprised to know that there are about 400 varieties of cabbage grown worldwide. In American grocery stores, you will find only three or four of the basic types: green, red, Napa, and Savoy.

Cabbages are available in grocery stores all year long. They are not very expensive and are priced by the pound. If you can't find a small one in the stack, ask the clerk to cut a big one in half for you to purchase. The clerk will be happy to do so.

Cabbages are so versatile that they can be eaten raw or cooked. They can be used in soups, salads, stews, and many other recipes. They are quick and easy to prepare.

Green Cabbage

Green cabbages are very versatile because they can be cooked and eaten as a side dish. The vegetables are also delicious when eaten raw in salads. Cabbages can be chopped up and made into coleslaw and sauerkraut.

Most diets allow people to eat as many servings as they like because the vegetable contains only a few calories, and the dish keeps consumers full.

Red Cabbage

The red cabbage looks more purple. Cooks can do everything with the red cabbage as they can with the green cabbage. The green and red cabbage could be twins, except for their color.

Red cabbage is delicious when sliced and pickled. When you cook red cabbages, you will notice that they turn an odd blue color. Cooking experts have suggested adding vinegar or lemon juice to the water when cooking them.

Napa Cabbage

In comparison, the Napa cabbage is the most tender of all. The leaves are thinner, and the ribs are less hearty. In fact, this type of cabbage is more like a lettuce.

Something to keep in mind about the Napa cabbage is that it wilts very quickly. Therefore, prepare it and consume it shortly after you purchase it.

As you can see from the picture, the Napa cabbage is not round like the other cabbages. It is oblong and has light-green leaves that are attached to thick white stalks. It is sometimes referred to as a Chinese cabbage or celery cabbage. Napa cabbage has a mild flavor and is delicious in salads and stir-fry dishes. The vegetable is rich in vitamin C and some calcium.

Savoy Cabbage

The Savoy cabbage is the designer cabbage of the group because it is so pretty. It is known by some as the curly cabbage. You can see from its picture why it is called that.

The Savoy cabbage has beautiful crinkled leaves inside and out. When you are preparing it to cook, you can't help noticing that the leaves are layered more loosely than in the green or red cabbage.

The Savoy cabbage can be prepared the same as the green cabbage. This type of cabbage is especially delicious when sliced thin and added to salads. The leaves are excellent for wraps. They are so crunchy that they can be used in place of tortillas. This type is good for making stuffed cabbage or cabbage rolls. Slice them and use them in soup, salads, and coleslaw. The texture is delicate, and the flavor is milder than the other varieties.

Nutritional Value

No matter which cabbage you choose, they all have the same nutritional value. There are fewer than 20 calories in a half cup when cooked. All of them contain vitamin K.

Eating cabbages often decreases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. The consumer ends up with a healthier-looking complexion, increased energy, and a lower weight.

The fiber and water content in cabbages also help prevent constipation and aids in maintaining a healthy digestive tract.

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