How to Cook a Head of Cabbage: The Ultimate Guide

Cooking a head of cabbage can be done in several ways depending on your preference and the dish you want to create. Here are a few common methods, along with tips for prepping and cooking this versatile vegetable:

Boiling

Prep the Cabbage: Remove any damaged outer leaves and cut the cabbage into quarters or leave it whole.

Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. You may add salt for seasoning.

Cook: Add the cabbage to the boiling water. Cook for about 5-10 minutes for quarters or 10-15 minutes for a whole head until tender. The cabbage should be soft and ready for further seasoning.

Drain: Remove the cabbage and let it drain. Season with butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

Steaming

Prep the Cabbage: Remove outer leaves and cut into wedges or leave whole.

Set Up Steamer: Fill a pot with a small amount of water and place a steamer basket inside.

Steam: Bring the water to a boil then add the cabbage. Cover and steam for about 10-15 minutes until tender.

Serve: Season as desired. Cabbage cooked this way is perfect for salads or side dishes.

Roasting

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prep the Cabbage: Cut the cabbage into wedges or slices. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like.

Roast: Place on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-35 minutes, turning halfway through until caramelized and tender.

Serve: Enjoy as a side dish or in salads.

Sautéing

Prep the Cabbage: Slice the cabbage into thin strips. Cutting it up allows for even and faster cooking, ideal for sautés and stir-fries.

Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.

Sauté: Add the cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until wilted and slightly browned.

Season: Add salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. You may also add a dash of soy sauce or vinegar for extra flavor.

Stir-Frying

Prep the Cabbage: Cut into thin strips. Similar to sautéing, prepping the cabbage thinly ensures faster and even cooking.

Heat Wok or Skillet: Heat a small amount of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.

Cook: Add the cabbage and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp. The cabbage should have a slight resistance when you bite into it but be tender enough to chew easily.

Add Flavor: You can add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and other seasonings for extra flavor.

Choose the Method: Choose the method that best fits your meal plan! Whether you are making a sauté, stir-fry, or roasting, each method brings out the unique flavors and textures of cabbage, making it a versatile and delicious ingredient in the kitchen.

Cutting Up Cabbage Before Cooking: Cutting up cabbage before cooking is usually best. It cooks more evenly and faster, making it perfect for sautés, stir-fries, or roasting. Cooking it whole is good for dishes like cabbage rolls or boiling, but it takes longer and can be less flavorful.