Although cabbage is a versatile vegetable, it can also be a rather boring one. Many people who grew up in the UK have memories of cabbage being served as part of school dinners, and lots of people will recall not enjoying plain boiled cabbage.

Cabbage does not have to be boring because it can be served in many different ways apart from just being boiled.

There are four main types of cabbage, namely:

• Green
• Red
• Napa
• Savoy

Green and red cabbage are ideal for boiling, sauteing, grilling, steaming and roasting.

Napa and Savoy are best used where they will be lightly cooked or in fresh dishes such as salads.

Braising cabbage

Either a Dutch oven or a large pot will work.

• Heat some oil over a medium heat.
• Add the cabbage, either quartered, sliced or chopped.
• Simmer for about 5 minutes until just wilted, using a small amount of chicken broth to prevent it burning.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Cover and cook until tender.
• Now add a splash of white vinegar, increase the heat a little and cook until most of the liquid evaporates. 

Steaming cabbage

• Add enough water to the steamer so that it does not evaporate.
• Bring the water to a boil and add the cabbage to the steamer basket.
• Steam for 10 minutes or until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
• Season and add a knob of butter.

Sauteing cabbage

• Add some olive oil to a frying pan and heat up over high heat. 
• Add chopped cabbage, stir gently until cooked through, which should be about7 or 8 minutes.
• Season with salt, pepper, fennel or caraway seeds if you enjoy these.
• You can also add ginger, soy sauce, garlic or sesame oil.

Roasting cabbage

• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F
• Chop the cabbage head into wedges or rounds.
• Either toss or spray with olive oil.
• Arrange on a baking tray and season with salt, pepper and seeds if you like.
• Bake until the cabbage turns golden brown, which should be about 25 to 30 minutes.
• Turn them over and brown the other side.

Note that thick rounds may need a little longer.

Final thoughts

Because cabbage is such a versatile vegetable it does not need to be boring. There are several different ways to cook it and all can transform the humble cabbage into a delicious dish which would grace any table.

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