10 Delicious Vegan Cabbage Recipes You Need to Try Today

Vegan Cabbage Recipes :

Vegan Cabbage Recipes: Cabbage might not be the first vegetable that comes to mind when you think of exciting vegan dishes,

In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to explore 10 mouth-watering vegan cabbage recipes that are easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. From the tangy kick of Quick Vegan Cabbage Stir-Fry to the comforting warmth of Creamy Vegan Cabbage Soup, these recipes showcase just how versatile cabbage can be in a vegan kitchen.

But before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why cabbage should be a staple in your vegan cooking:

• Nutritional Powerhouse: Cabbage is packed with essential nutrients, including fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and antioxidants. These nutrients support everything from your immune system to your digestive health.
• Versatility: Whether you’re sautéing, frying, roasting, or using it raw, cabbage adapts well to a variety of cooking methods. Its mild flavor makes it a great base for absorbing spices and seasonings.
• Affordability: Cabbage is one of the most cost-effective vegetables you can buy. It’s inexpensive, widely available, and a little goes a long way, making it a great option for budget-conscious cooks.
• Flavor Profile: While cabbage has a naturally mild and slightly sweet flavor, it pairs beautifully with bold seasonings, making it the perfect canvas for a wide range of culinary creations.

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into these 10 incredible vegan cabbage recipes, each designed to showcase the versatility and deliciousness of cabbage. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based eating, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.

The Benefits of Using Cabbage in Vegan Cooking

Nutritional Value

Cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse that belongs in every vegan’s pantry. Here’s a quick look at what makes cabbage such a healthy choice:

Cabbage is particularly rich in Vitamin C, which is crucial for immune health, and Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health. The high fiber content supports digestive health, helping to keep you full and satisfied.

Versatility in the Kitchen

One of the best things about cabbage is how versatile it is. It can be:

• Sautéed for a quick and easy side dish.
• Fried to create crispy, flavorful bites.
• Roasted to bring out its natural sweetness.
• Pickled for a tangy, crunchy addition to salads or sandwiches.
• Used Raw in salads and slaws for a refreshing, crisp texture.

Cabbage is also available in several varieties—green, red, Savoy, and Napa—each with its unique texture and flavor, offering even more possibilities in the kitchen.

Affordability

Cabbage is not only nutritious but also incredibly affordable. A single head of cabbage can often be bought for a few dollars or less, and it can feed an entire family when used in soups, stews, or as a base for a salad. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to eat healthily without spending a lot of money.

Flavor Profile

Cabbage has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that can easily absorb the flavors of spices and seasonings. This makes it a fantastic base for a wide range of dishes, from spicy stir-fries to creamy soups. Whether you want to go bold with garlic and chili or keep it simple with just a bit of salt and pepper, cabbage can handle it.

Recipe 1: Sautéed Garlicky Cabbage

Ingredients Needed

• 1/2 large head of green cabbage, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 shallot, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegan butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil for finishing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Veggies: Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the garlic and shallot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat the vegan butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and shallot, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pan, tossing to coat in the garlic and shallot mixture. Season with salt and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Add the Flavorings: Once the cabbage starts to wilt, add a splash of soy sauce and rice vinegar. Continue cooking until the cabbage reaches your desired level of tenderness.
5. Finish and Serve: Drizzle with sesame oil before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or pair with your favorite tofu or noodle dish.

Tips for Perfect Sautéed Cabbage

• Don’t Overcook: Cabbage should be tender but still have a slight crunch to it. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
• Season Well: Don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and other spices. Cabbage can handle bold flavors.

Recipe 2: Vegan Southern Fried Cabbage

Ingredients Needed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 medium cabbage, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup vegan coconut bacon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and thyme, cooking until the onion is soft, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss everything together to coat the cabbage in the spices.
3. Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth, cover the skillet, and let the cabbage cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add the Coconut Bacon: Stir in the vegan coconut bacon just before serving for a smoky, crispy finish.

Expert Tips for Authentic Southern Flavor

• Use Smoked Paprika: It adds a depth of flavor that mimics traditional bacon without the meat.
• Coconut Bacon: If you want to add a smoky, bacon-like crunch, consider adding vegan coconut bacon, which is easy to make and store.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with other Southern favorites like Vegan Southern-Style Collard Greens or Vegan Cornbread.

Recipe 3: Quick Vegan Cabbage Stir-Fry

Ingredients Needed

• 1 small head of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables: Thinly slice the cabbage, julienne the carrot, and slice the bell pepper. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Cabbage: Add the cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
4. Flavor the Stir-Fry: Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili paste (if using). Toss everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. This stir-fry is perfect over steamed rice or noodles.

How to Customize Your Stir-Fry

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add tofu, tempeh, or your favorite vegan protein.
• Mix Up the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
• Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of chili paste or add sliced fresh chili peppers for an extra kick.

Recipe 4: Vegan Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients Needed

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 can lentils, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel off the cabbage leaves and blanch them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the cooked rice, lentils, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stuff the Cabbage Leaves: Place a spoonful of the filling onto each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
4. Bake: Pour the marinara sauce over the cabbage rolls, covering them completely. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

How to Store and Reheat Cabbage Rolls

• Storing: Cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: They also freeze well. To freeze, place the cooked rolls in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Recipe 5: Creamy Vegan Cabbage Soup

Ingredients Needed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage and diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine.
3. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the cabbage and potatoes are tender.
4. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the coconut milk and thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Variations to Try

• Add Carrots or Celery: For extra flavor and nutrition, add chopped carrots or celery to the soup.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
• Use Different Potatoes: Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter, richer flavor.

Recipe 6: Spicy Vegan Cabbage Tacos

Ingredients Needed

• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup vegan mayo
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• Corn tortillas
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage Slaw: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Toss to combine and set aside.
2. Make the Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, mix together the vegan mayo and hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
3. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Spread a layer of spicy mayo on each tortilla, then top with the cabbage slaw, black beans, avocado slices, and jalapeño.
4. Serve: Garnish with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Toppings and Add-Ins

• Pickled Onions: Add a tangy crunch with homemade or store-bought pickled onions.
• Vegan Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded vegan cheese over the tacos for extra richness.
• Extra Heat: Add more sliced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.

Recipe 7: Vegan Cabbage Steaks

Ingredients Needed

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the Cabbage: Remove any loose outer leaves from the cabbage and cut it into thick slices (about 1-inch thick).
3. Season the Steaks: Brush both sides of each cabbage slice with olive oil. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast: Place the cabbage steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are crispy and browned.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Cabbage Steaks

• Even Slices: Try to cut the cabbage into even slices to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Crispy Edges: For extra crispy edges, you can broil the cabbage steaks for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
• Serve as a Main or Side: These steaks are hearty enough to be a main dish but also work well as a side.

Recipe 8: Easy Pickled Cabbage

Ingredients Needed

• 1 small head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 bay leaf

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Brine: In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Pack the Cabbage: Place the sliced cabbage in a large, clean jar. Pour the hot brine over the cabbage, ensuring it is fully submerged.
3. Cool and Store: Let the jar cool to room temperature before sealing it with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using to allow the flavors to develop.
4. Serve: Use the pickled cabbage as a topping for sandwiches, salads, or as a tangy side dish.

How to Use Pickled Cabbage

• Tacos: Add a crunchy, tangy element to tacos.
• Sandwiches: Use as a topping for vegan burgers or sandwiches.
• Salads: Toss with greens and other vegetables for a refreshing salad.

Recipe 9: Vegan Cabbage Slaw

Ingredients Needed

• 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1/4 cup vegan mayo
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrot.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayo, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can add an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Serve with BBQ: This slaw is the perfect side for vegan BBQ dishes like pulled jackfruit.

Recipe 10: Roasted Cabbage Wedges

Ingredients Needed for vegan cabbage recipes

• 1 medium head of cabbage
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the Cabbage: Slice the cabbage into wedges, keeping the core intact to hold the wedges together.
3. Season the Wedges: Brush the wedges with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast: Place the cabbage wedges on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and browned at the edges.
5. Serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the wedges before serving.

Tips for Crispy Wedges

• Use High Heat: Roasting at a high temperature helps to caramelize the edges, adding flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the wedges have space on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan can elevate the dish.

Additional Tips for Cooking with Cabbage

Expert Tips for Cooking with Cabbage

Cooking with cabbage can be easy and rewarding, especially when you know a few key tips:

• How to Choose the Best Cabbage: Look for firm, heavy heads with tight leaves. Avoid any with brown spots or loose, wilting leaves.
• How to Store Cabbage: Keep cabbage in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. It can last for up to two weeks when stored properly.
• How to Cut Cabbage Efficiently: Use a sharp knife to cut cabbage into even slices or shreds. For dishes like slaw, a mandoline can be a handy tool for getting uniformly thin slices.

How to Incorporate Cabbage into More Meals

• Smoothies: Add a handful of raw cabbage to your morning smoothie for an extra nutrient boost.
• Stir-Fries: Use cabbage as a base in stir-fries with tofu, tempeh, or other veggies.
• Soups and Stews: Add cabbage to soups and stews for added texture and flavor.
• Wraps: Use large cabbage leaves as a low-carb alternative to tortillas or bread in wraps.

Conclusion

Cabbage is truly a versatile and nutritious ingredient that deserves a place in every kitchen, especially for those who follow a vegan diet. With these 10 delicious and easy-to-make vegan cabbage recipes, you’ll discover just how satisfying and flavorful this humble vegetable can be. Whether you’re whipping up a quick stir-fry, enjoying a comforting bowl of soup, or trying your hand at pickling, there’s a recipe here for everyone.

So why not give cabbage a chance to shine in your meals? Try out these recipes, experiment with your own variations, and don’t forget to share your creations with us!

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FAQ Section

Q: Can I freeze cooked cabbage?
A: Yes, cooked cabbage freezes well. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: How long does cabbage last in the fridge?
A: When stored properly in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer, cabbage can last up to two weeks in the fridge.

Q: What are the best spices for cabbage dishes?
A: Cabbage pairs well with a variety of spices, including garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, caraway seeds, and thyme. Experiment with different spice combinations to find your favorite.

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