Cabbage is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes beyond the classic coleslaw. Here are 11 unique ways to use raw cabbage, as suggested by chefs Bill Kim and Rodney Freidank:
Fresh Herb and Garden Salads: Raw, shredded cabbage adds a welcome crunch and sweetness to fresh herb and garden salads. It pairs well with complementary veggies like raw broccoli, raw cauliflower, and bright herbs like mint, basil, and parsley. A tangy dressing such as a lime-Dijon mustard vinaigrette ties all the flavors together.
Asian-Inspired Dressings: The sweet-spicy crunch of raw cabbage blends beautifully with classic Asian dressing ingredients such as roasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a bit of sugar. It's a refreshing side dish that pairs well with grilled seafood and steaks.
Fresh Fruit Combinations: Cabbage, considered a superfood, can be paired with fresh fruit for a nutritional boost. Blend it into a smoothie with apples, pineapple, and oranges for a colorful and healthy drink. Or make a fruit cabbage salad with apples, bananas, golden raisins, and chopped pecans, drizzled with a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing.
Salsa Recipes: Shredded or finely diced cabbage adds crunch and a touch of sweetness to salsa. Blend it with diced tomatoes, chopped onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice for a light, refreshing dip. It also complements tacos, burritos, fajitas, and quesadillas.
Sandwiches and Burgers: Layering raw cabbage onto sandwiches and burgers provides a bolder crunch and freshness. Use Napa or Savoy cabbage for a more tender bite, or raw red cabbage for a vibrant pop of color. It also works well as a quick slaw with herbs and a light dressing, layered onto various sandwiches and grilled meats.
Warm Bacon Vinaigrette: Enhance a fresh cabbage salad with a warm bacon vinaigrette dressing. The dressing adds acidity and fat, bringing out the natural sweetness of the cabbage. It's especially useful for firmer types of cabbage, softening the texture.
Wraps: Fresh wraps layered with rainbow-colored vegetables, including carrots, spinach or lettuce, tomatoes, and either red or green cabbage, are flavorful, crunchy, and nutritious. Use a tangy or spicy dressing, or dip them in ranch or creamy cucumber dip.
Southern Chow Chow: This popular Southern condiment, traditionally made with onion, green tomatoes, bell peppers, and a sweet and tangy brine, often includes cabbage for crunch. It's a great condiment for sandwiches, sausages, and hot dogs.
Homemade Sauerkraut: Transform fresh cabbage into tangy sauerkraut, a dish that chefs Bill Kim and Rodney Freidank both love. Homemade sauerkraut is beneficial for gut health and packed with natural probiotics, vitamins, and nutrients.
Tacos and Burritos: Fresh cabbage slaw, tacos, and burritos are a match made in culinary heaven. The crisp texture of the slaw, made with green or red cabbage, onions, shredded carrots, jalapeños, and cilantro, adds moisture and tang. It's a flavorful wrap filling or side to barbecued dishes.
Egg Roll in a Bowl: Shredded cabbage gives egg roll in a bowl dishes some much-needed crunch. Use either green or red cabbage, or Napa and Savoy cabbage, for a convenient lunch or dinner. Top the bowl with raw, shredded leafy green, toasted sesame seeds, fried shallots or garlic, or crispy noodles for an extra-crunchy texture.
These unique ways to use raw cabbage showcase its versatility and ability to enhance a variety of dishes, from salads to wraps and even egg rolls.
