How to Cook Cabbage on the Stove: A Comprehensive Guide

Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked, and it’s affordable too. When it comes to cooking, cabbage is an excellent candidate for the stove-top method, which is quick, easy and brings out its natural flavor. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to cook cabbage on the stove like a pro.

Preparing the Cabbage

Before you start cooking, you need to prepare your cabbage. You can choose any variety of cabbage that you like, but the most common types are green and red cabbage. Here’s how to prepare your cabbage:

Cleaning the Cabbage

First, remove the loose outer leaves and rinse your cabbage thoroughly under cold water. Make sure that you remove any dirt or debris that may be stuck on the cabbage.

Cutting the Cabbage

Next, cut off the bottom of your cabbage and slice it in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half into quarters, removing the tough inner core.

Chopping the Cabbage

Finally, chop the cabbage into thin strips or bite-size pieces, depending on your preference.

Cooking the Cabbage

Now that your cabbage is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Cooking cabbage on the stove is simple and requires only a few basic ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 head of cabbage, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
  2. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and stir to coat it with the olive oil.
  3. Sprinkle the salt and black pepper on top of the cabbage and continue stirring.
  4. Cook the cabbage for 5-10 minutes until it has wilted and turned a vibrant green color.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
  6. Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes if you want a slightly caramelized flavor.
  7. Once your cabbage is cooked to your desired texture, serve hot and enjoy!

Enhancing the Flavor of Your Cabbage

While the above recipe is delicious as is, there are a few simple ways you can enhance the flavor of your cabbage even further. Here are some ideas:

Add Some Acid

Try adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to your cabbage while it’s cooking. This will give it a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cabbage.

Experiment with Different Spices

If you’re bored with salt and pepper, try experimenting with other spices like cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, or garlic powder.

Add Some Texture

Add some texture to your cabbage by tossing in some nuts like chopped almonds or cashews.

FAQ

How long does it take to cook cabbage on the stove?

It takes approximately 20-25 minutes to cook cabbage on the stove until it is tender.

Can I cook cabbage without oil?

Yes, you can cook cabbage without oil, but the cabbage will not have the same texture and flavor. Instead, try cooking cabbage in vegetable stock or water.

Can I store cooked cabbage in the fridge?

Yes, you can store cooked cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat the cabbage in a skillet on the stove with a small amount of water or vegetable stock.