Get ready to fall in love with the vibrant purple hue of this stunning vegetable! Purple cabbage is a game-changer in the kitchen, offering a unique flavor profile and stunning visual appeal. From hearty stews to crunchy slaws, and from savory stir-fries to sweet smoothies, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of purple cabbage.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of purple cabbage and explore its many uses. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity and leave you wondering how you ever lived without this amazing ingredient. So, let’s get started and discover the magic of purple cabbage!
Purple Cabbage and Apple Slaw
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the crunch of purple cabbage with the sweetness of apples.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, shredded
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and diced apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in the mayonnaise until the slaw is creamy but not soggy.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Braised Purple Cabbage with Bacon
Braised Purple Cabbage with Bacon: A Hearty Winter Side Dish
This recipe transforms purple cabbage into a sweet and savory masterpiece, perfect for the colder months. By cooking it low and slow with crispy bacon, you’ll be rewarded with a tender, caramelized delight that pairs well with roasted meats or as a standalone side.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add butter to the pot and sauté the onion until translucent.
5. Add sliced cabbage to the pot in batches, cooking each batch for about 10 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
6. Stir in caraway seeds (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the cooked bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
8. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pickled Purple Cabbage Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of pickled purple cabbage with the crunch of a crispy taco shell. Perfect for adventurous eaters, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Toppings of your choice (e.g. grilled chicken, avocado, sour cream)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced purple cabbage, white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until crispy and golden brown.
3. Assemble tacos by placing pickled purple cabbage onto fried tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on the marinating time)
Enjoy your delicious Pickled Purple Cabbage Tacos!
Purple Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ginger
This vibrant and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to add some excitement to your meals. With the natural sweetness of purple cabbage, the spicy kick from ginger, and the crunch from scallions, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until softened.
4. Add the cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour over the cabbage mixture and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with scallions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks
Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks: A Sweet and Savory Side Dish
Elevate your meals with the natural sweetness of roasted purple cabbage, perfectly caramelized into tender steaks. This simple recipe highlights the beauty of this underrated cruciferous vegetable.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp caraway seeds or 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the cabbage into 3-4 thick steaks, removing the core.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cabbage steaks with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Place the steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each steak.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Garnish with caraway seeds or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Beetroot Salad
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the tanginess of purple cabbage, perfect for a healthy and refreshing meal. The addition of citrus dressing brings all the flavors together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 large beetroot, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 small head of purple cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the beetroot slices in a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted beetroot, shredded cabbage, olive oil, orange juice, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Creamy Purple Cabbage Soup
Transform the humble cabbage into a rich and creamy soup that’s perfect for any meal. This recipe showcases the sweet and slightly tangy flavor of purple cabbage, blended with aromatic spices and a touch of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add garlic, caraway seeds, paprika, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chopped cabbage, broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Purple Cabbage Kimchi
Kimchi, a traditional Korean side dish, adds a burst of flavor to any meal. This recipe for Purple Cabbage Kimchi combines the natural sweetness of purple cabbage with spicy gochugaru and tangy Korean chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of coarse salt
– 1/4 cup of water
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 1/4 cup of fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the cabbage with coarse salt and water until it reaches your desired level of crunch.
2. Mix in garlic, ginger, gochugaru, fish sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Pack the mixture into a jar or container, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets.
4. Leave at room temperature for 1-2 days before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: None! This kimchi is best served immediately, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.
Purple Cabbage and Quinoa Bowl
This hearty bowl combines the natural sweetness of roasted purple cabbage with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a vibrant package. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 small head of purple cabbage, cored and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss together the chopped cabbage, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until the cabbage is evenly coated.
3. Spread the cabbage mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
5. To assemble the bowls, divide the cooked quinoa between two bowls, then top with the roasted purple cabbage.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Purple Cabbage Wedges
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that highlights the sweet and tangy qualities of purple cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Add the cabbage wedges to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the cabbage wedges on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Carrot Fritters
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful fritters, packed with the natural sweetness of purple cabbage and carrots. Perfect for a quick bite or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, shredded
– 2 medium-sized carrots, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, and salt.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined.
3. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture into the skillet.
5. Flatten slightly with a spatula and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Purple Cabbage Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this colorful and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of purple cabbage with the crunch of bell peppers. A perfect blend of textures and tastes!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 head of purple cabbage, shredded
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: feta cheese crumbles or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, cooked rice, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cabbage mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Chickpea Curry
A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian curry that combines the sweetness of purple cabbage with the nutty taste of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, shredded
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas and purple cabbage. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Mango Salsa
This vibrant salsa combines the natural sweetness of mango with the crunch and earthiness of purple cabbage, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, shredded
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded purple cabbage, diced mango, red onion, and chopped jalapeño.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Purple Cabbage and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew combines the natural sweetness of purple cabbage with the creamy texture of red lentils, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cabbage, lentils, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Walnut Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the earthy sweetness of purple cabbage with the crunch of toasted walnuts, all tied together with a light vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced cabbage and cook for 3-4 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
3. Add the chopped walnuts to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the cabbage-walnut mixture and vinaigrette until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Blue Cheese Pizza
Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors on this unique pizza. The combination of tender purple cabbage, pungent blue cheese, and crispy crust will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
2. Spread olive oil on the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with purple cabbage, blue cheese, and caramelized onions.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Pear Smoothie
Transform your morning routine with a refreshing blend of purple cabbage, sweet pear, and creamy yogurt. This unique smoothie is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and a hint of earthy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked purple cabbage
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the cooked purple cabbage, chopped pear, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated.
5. Pour into a glass and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Avocado Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of purple cabbage with the creamy texture of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced purple cabbage, mashed avocado, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the cabbage-avocado mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
3. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up into a neat wrap.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make three more wraps.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips: For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or crumbled feta cheese to the filling. You can also customize with your favorite toppings, such as sliced grilled chicken or roasted sweet potatoes.
Purple Cabbage and Sweet Potato Hash
This vibrant side dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of purple cabbage, all wrapped up in a crispy hash. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a colorful addition to your brunch menu.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 small purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potato and purple cabbage with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the cabbage is caramelized.
4. Use a spatula to break up the mixture into a crispy hash.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to be amazed by the versatility of purple cabbage! This vibrant vegetable can add color, flavor, and nutrition to a wide range of dishes. From classic slaws and braises to innovative tacos, stir-fries, and soups, our list of 20 recipes showcases the many uses of purple cabbage. Discover how to pickled it for tacos, roast it as steaks, or blend it into a creamy soup. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a show-stopping main course, these vibrant purple cabbage recipes have got you covered.
