There are times when cabbage just isn’t the best option for a recipe. Maybe you’re out of cabbage, or maybe you’re looking for something different.
Whatever the reason, we’ve got you covered with 8 perfect substitutes for cabbage in recipes!
Substitutes for Cabbage:
- Brussels sprout
- Napa cabbage
- Savoy cabbage
- Kale
- Kohlrabi
- Celery
- Bok choy
- Choy sum
Brussels sprout
Brussels sprout is a member of the same family as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. It is small and round, with a flavor that is slightly more bitter than cabbage.
It is rich in minerals and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for those looking to add more nutrient-rich vegetables to their diet.
Brussels sprout can be used as a substitute for cabbage in many recipes. It can be shredded and used in salads or slaws, or cooked and served as a side dish.
When cooked, Brussels sprout has a milder flavor that some find more palatable than cabbage. It can also be used as a replacement for cabbage in stir-fries or other dishes where cabbage is typically used.
The benefits of using Brussels sprout as a substitute for cabbage include its nutrient density, versatility, and flavor. Brussels sprout is an excellent way to add more vitamins and minerals to your diet and can be used in a variety of ways to suit your taste.
When choosing Brussels sprouts as a substitute for cabbage, look for those that are green and firm. Avoid sprouts that are yellow or wilted. Brussels sprouts can be steamed, boiled, roasted, or sauteed.
Napa cabbage
Napa cabbage, also known as Chinese cabbage, is a type of cabbage that has yellowish-green leaves and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is often used in Asian cuisine and can be a good substitute for regular cabbage in many dishes.
It is low in calories and fat and is a good source of vitamins C and K. It can be eaten raw or cooked and is commonly used in stir-fries, soups, and salads.
Napa cabbage can be found year-round in most supermarkets. When shopping for Napa cabbage, look for heads that are firm and crisp with bright green leaves. Avoid heads that are wilted or have brown spots.
Savoy cabbage
Savoy cabbage is a type of cabbage that is dark green in color and has wrinkled, crinkly leaves. It is slightly sweeter and milder in flavor than regular cabbage and has a softer, more delicate texture.
It is not as crunchy as other types of cabbage, but it is just as nutritious. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
You can use it as a substitute for regular cabbage in many dishes, such as hotpots and soups. It can also be roasted, sautéed, or stir-fried for a side dish without becoming mushy.
When substituting Savoy cabbage for regular cabbage, keep in mind that it will take less time to cook since it is not as crunchy.
Kale
Kale and cabbage are both leafy greens that belong to the Brassica family. Kale is often considered a superfood because it is nutrient-rich, containing high levels of vitamins A, C, and K. It is also a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
Kale can be used as a substitute for cabbage in many dishes. The most obvious difference between the two is their color. Kale has dark, elongated leaves, while cabbage has tightly packed round leaves that are usually lighter in color. Kale is also more easily available than cabbage.
Kale can be enjoyed cooked or raw. When cooked, it has a chewy texture similar to that of cabbage. You can use kale in any dish that calls for cabbage, including stir-fries, soups, and salads.
When choosing kale as a substitute for cabbage, look for leaves that are firm and free of blemishes.
Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is a vegetable that comes from the same vegetable family as cabbage. It has a sweet and mild flavor, an odd shape, and two color varieties: purple and green. However, it is not a common sight in supermarkets.
Kohlrabi has many health benefits, including being a good source of fiber and vitamins C and B6. It is also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for those on a diet.
Kohlrabi can be eaten raw or cooked, making it a versatile ingredient. When substituting Kohlrabi for cabbage, be sure to cook it longer than you would cabbage, as the former is tougher.
Celery
Celery is a great substitute for cabbage. It is very nutritious and has very few calories. It has a different taste, but the same crunch. It is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K. It is a good source of dietary fiber and potassium.
Celery can be used as a replacement for cabbage in soups, stews, salads, and stir-fries. It is also a good substitution for cabbage in coleslaw.
Bok choy
Bok choy, also known as Chinese white cabbage, is a versatile vegetable that can be used as a substitute for cabbage in a variety of dishes.
It has crunchy and sweet stems, with bitter leaves, and can be eaten cooked or raw. It is a good source of vitamins A and C and is also high in fiber.
When substituting bok choy for cabbage, you may want to blanch it first to reduce its bitterness. Bok choy can be used in stir-fries, soups, and salads. It is also a good choice for coleslaw or sauerkraut.
Keep in mind that it will not hold up as well when cooked for a long time. So if you are planning to cook the Bok choy for a longer period of time, you may want to add some other vegetables to the dish to bulk it up.
Choy sum
Choy sum, also known as Chinese cabbage, is a leafy vegetable that resembles broccoli. It is often used in stir-fries and soups because of its bittersweet and juicy flavor.
Choy sum is a good source of vitamins A and C. In addition, it is low in calories and high in fiber.
You can use it as a substitute for cabbage in many recipes. When stir-frying, the vegetable’s crunchy texture holds up well to cooking. The plant’s leaves are also thin enough that they will wilt quickly, making them ideal for use in soups.
Choy sum is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a healthy and flavorful alternative to cabbage.
FAQ
What are some substitutes for cabbage?
Some substitutes for cabbage include kale, kohlrabi, celery, bok choy, and choy sum. All of these vegetables can be used in place of cabbage in a variety of dishes. They have different flavors and textures, but all are healthy and nutritious.
What are the differences between cabbage and its substitutes?
The substitutes for cabbage have different flavors and textures. Kale has dark, elongated leaves and a chewy texture, while cabbage has tightly packed round leaves that are usually lighter in color. Kohlrabi is a vegetable that is part of the cabbage family and has a sweet and mild flavor. It is also low in calories and fat.
What is a good substitute for cabbage in dumplings?
Potatoes can be used as a cabbage substitute for dumplings. Potato dumplings are easy to make and have a mild flavor that will complement most savory dishes. You can also add herbs and spices to the dough for added flavor. For a healthier version, use grated zucchini or carrot in place of the potato.
If you want your dumplings to have the same flavor without cabbage, you can experiment with different greens like boy choy and collard greens.
Conclusion
Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. It has a crunchy texture and a mild flavor.
When substituting cabbage for another vegetable, it is important to consider the taste and texture of the dish you are making.
All of the substitutes we have listed are healthy and nutritious. And each one has a different flavor and texture, so choose the one that best suits your dish.
We hope this article has given you some ideas on how to substitute cabbage in your recipes. Be sure to experiment with different vegetables to find the perfect substitute!