Throughout Europe, Portuguese cabbage is a favorite fixture in vegetable gardens. The Tuscan cabbage not only provides a bold color to any dish but also brings robust flavor to each bite. Versatile and easily prepared, Chef, restaurateur, and cookbook author Marco Canora makes use of Tuscan cabbage as a staple in an amaranth polenta dish. It helps your body bind calcium, which strengthens bone structure and improves overall bone density. Cabbage contains powerful plant compounds such as sulforaphane and kaempferol that help reduce inflammation,56 a key driver of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Peer reviewed by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGPAuthored by Heather AinsworthOriginally published 23 Jan 2026 Red cabbage is rich in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation3 and protect blood vessels, lowering the risk of heart disease.Cook green lunar cabbage by sautéing it with shallots, garlic, olive oil, and sage leaves to create a healthy, robust dish.According to the Mayo Clinic, the high amounts of vitamins A, K, B6, and C are enough to entice someone to implement this hearty leaf into their diet.Often showcased in coleslaw, green cabbage can provide a crisp texture and bite to most dishes.Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.Almost sculptural, this vegetable appears as a long white bulb encircled with lengthened, elegant green leaves. What are the health benefits of cabbage? In a similar fashion, roasted cabbage wedges is a hearty side that makes good use of this variety. Pointed cabbage is a rich source of vitamins and contains so much vitamin C that, according to Healthline, simply one cup contains 54% of the daily recommended dietary intake (RDI). It becomes even paler as the leaves are closer to the bulb and receive next-to-no sunlight. According to the New York Times, despite typical connections between sauerkraut and central European cuisine, sauerkraut (or an earlier form of fermented cabbage) first came from China rather than central Europe. Regular consumption of cruciferous vegetables has been linked to a reduced risk of several cancers, including colorectal14and lung cancer.15 Its antioxidants may also improve insulin sensitivity, making cabbage a smart choice for people managing blood sugar or aiming to reduce diabetes risk.13 Low in calories but high in fibre and water, cabbage helps you feel full without adding many calories. Adequate intake of vitamin K is linked not only to stronger bones but also to a reduced risk of fractures and osteoporosis, especially as we age.9 It's a textured bulb of dark leaves with light green, nearly white, stalks that narrow to a point. Prepare for the cooler season and embrace Eastern European comfort food by trying out a cabbage roll soup recipe for your next cozy dinner, substituting the green cabbage for a bulb of white. Almost sculptural, this vegetable appears as a long white bulb encircled with lengthened, elegant green leaves. Napa cabbage wouldn't be cabbage without a long list of health benefits and high nutritional value, including a large amount of vitamin B9, which improves the overall function of the heart and increases heart health. Even the larger leaves can be used as wraps to create a healthier meal and take advantage of the high vitamin content and health benefits that green cabbage provides, according to Science Direct. Similar to its siblings in the cruciferous vegetable family, bok choy is packed full of vitamins and minerals, providing immense nutrients and health benefits. The parel cabbage has a similar appearance to green cabbage, with slightly wrinkled green leaves that become lighter and nearly even a bright white as they come closer to the core of the vegetable. Still,l the versatility and flavor are enough to convert someone into a fan.When you initially think of cabbage, the typical image of a tightly packed green bulb likely comes to mind.Cabbage, (Brassica oleracea), vegetable and fodder plant of the mustard family (Brassicaceae), the various agricultural forms of which have been developed by long cultivation from the wild cabbage (Brassica oleracea).Cabbage is also a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure by balancing sodium levels and supporting healthy blood vessel function.4Like other vegetables, cabbage counts toward your “5-a-day,” the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables for a balanced diet.One of the most overlooked and underrated vegetables in the market, cabbage has found its way into many dishes all across the world, whether it's kimchi, cabbage soup, or coleslaw.Kale has its own assortment of varieties, such as red Russian, Siberian, redbor, and winterbor, just to name a few.If a stew isn't your style, take the liberty to combine the January King cabbage raw into a winter salad with herbs and other vegetables. Improves digestion and gut health Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin K, a nutrient essential for bone health. Diets rich in antioxidant-packed vegetables are linked to lower risk of chronic disease.8 By helping to regulate inflammatory pathways and protect cells from oxidative stress, cabbage may support long-term health and disease prevention. Cabbage is also a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure by balancing sodium levels and supporting healthy blood vessel function.4 Red cabbage is rich in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation3 and protect blood vessels, lowering the risk of heart disease. A standard serving of cabbage is around 80 grams cooked or 1 cup raw.Cabbage is low in carbohydrates and high in fibre, which helps slow digestion and prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels.12Notable ceramics designer Bordallo Pinheiro even created an entire line of intricate dishware dedicated to the art and architecture of the cabbage and the role it served in the country's cultural heritage.It come as an ornamental or a vegetable used year-long as the temperatures change the texture of the leaves.Including a serving or two of cabbage in your meals can help you meet these targets while reaping its many health benefits.The brassica vegetable family, which includes cabbage, comes in all shapes, colors, and sizes.Fermented cabbage such as sauerkraut and kimchi bring probiotics to the table too, which have been shown to aid digestion and strengthen the gut barrier.2Throughout Europe, Portuguese cabbage is a favorite fixture in vegetable gardens.You can also use this vegetable as a garnish to decorate a plate and brighten it up with diverse colors. Helps lower blood sugar You can use the leaves as well as the core of the savoy cabbage to create a beautiful dish. According to Specialty Produce, savoy cabbage serves as an incredible source of fiber, potassium, and magnesium, as well as calcium, manganese, and iron. The savoy is versatile in its cooking and available throughout the year, showcasing a mild and muted sweet flavor. Often showcased in coleslaw, green cabbage can provide a crisp texture and bite to most dishes. They grow rather large, reaching 8 pounds and 8 to 10 inches across the glorious purple-red core streaked with vibrant shades of green. Mammoth red rock cabbage is in its prime time during the late-harvest season. According to a historical review published through Academia, this particular variety of cabbage has long been beloved by the people of Portugal. Vitamin D plays an essential role in bone health, immunity, and mood, yet many people in the UK don’t get enough, especially during the darker months.Portuguese cabbage makes a name for itself in traditional Portuguese hot stew dishes such as caldo verde, feijoada, and cozido à Portuguesa.Its antioxidants may also improve insulin sensitivity, making cabbage a smart choice for people managing blood sugar or aiming to reduce diabetes risk.13Low in calories but high in fibre and water, cabbage helps you feel full without adding many calories.The parel cabbage has a similar appearance to green cabbage, with slightly wrinkled green leaves that become lighter and nearly even a bright white as they come closer to the core of the vegetable.Patient is a UK registered trade mark. Sturdy leafy greens that are appropriately balanced with bitter and sweet tastes provide a blank canvas for flavors. Also known as "cannonball cabbage," this bright green bulb is perhaps the most well-recognized and familiar of all the cabbage siblings. Though they are sometimes grouped into the same family as lettuce and other leafy greens, cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable. The edible portions of all cabbage forms—which include kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts—are low in calories and are an excellent source of vitamin C. Cabbage is packed with vitamin C, a key nutrient that helps your body fight off infections and supports antioxidant defences. Napa cabbage is commonly found as the main ingredient in kimchi, and you'll often find it in broth-centered dishes. Since then, this cabbage variety has become popular all over the world, finding a home in various types of dishes and meals. According to The Japan Times, napa (or nappa) translates to the "leaf vegetable" (it has no association with California's Napa Valley region). Easy ways to add cabbage to your diet Fermented cabbage such as sauerkraut and kimchi bring probiotics to the table too, which have been shown to aid digestion and strengthen the gut barrier.2 Thanks to its fibre content, cabbage promotes regular bowel movements, feeds beneficial gut bacteria, and supports overall gut health. Often overlooked in favour of trendier greens, this humble crucifer has been fuelling healthy diets for centuries. You can also use this vegetable as a garnish to decorate a plate and brighten it up with diverse colors. The vibrant hues of this cabbage prove to be the star, beautifying every dish it touches. Packed with vitamins, fibre, and powerful plant compounds, cabbage supports everything from gut health to heart health - all while being affordable, versatile, and easy to prepare. If a stew isn't your style, take the liberty to combine the January King cabbage raw into a winter salad with herbs and other vegetables. Due to its tough texture, it won't wilt as fast as other varieties of cabbage. A Dutch hybrid, the parel cabbage does not produce its own seeds and needs to be manually planted and labored. Known for its crunchy bite and mild flavor, green cabbage has been found to highlight many dishes in several cultures. This superfood is known for incredible health benefits, including a reduced risk of cancer and even increased functioning of the brain and nervous system. When you initially think of cabbage, the typical image of a tightly packed green bulb likely comes to mind. The so-called Chinese cabbages, including bok choy (Brassica rapa, variety chinensis) and napa cabbage (B. rapa, variety pekinensis), are forms of a related species. Harvested in late winter, this cabbage is perfect for cold weather soups and stews. They appear as though an artistic watercolor masterpiece of green and purple hues has been painted individually onto each leaf. Even in very cold temperatures, the parel cabbage can continue to grow, which makes it extremely versatile for all climate conditions. This is well worth it, however, as an advantage of the parel cabbage is that it is highly weather tolerant and genetically resistant to various diseases and forms of rot. Reduces inflammation If you can't seem to find this cabbage variety in your nearest grocery store, growing it yourself is an option, though there will be effort required.The savoy is versatile in its cooking and available throughout the year, showcasing a mild and muted sweet flavor.According to The Japan Times, napa (or nappa) translates to the "leaf vegetable" (it has no association with California's Napa Valley region).This type of cabbage appears as a bold, jewel-toned, deep purple in the produce section of your nearest grocery store.According to a study described in Science Direct, this will affect the anthocyanin in the cabbage and keep the color bright.They appear as though an artistic watercolor masterpiece of green and purple hues has been painted individually onto each leaf.As you peel back the frilly layers of the savoy, coming closer to the bulb at the center of the vegetable, the leaves become softer and lean towards a light yellow shade.Due to the crinkled texture of the leaves, pointed cabbage is easily digestible, protects the stomach and intestines, and aids in supporting gut health. One of the most overlooked and underrated vegetables in the market, cabbage has found its way into many dishes all across the world, whether it's kimchi, cabbage soup, or coleslaw. The less-hard varieties must be used more or less promptly after harvest for salads, in cookery, or for the manufacture of sauerkraut, whereas the very hard late-maturing Danish type is suited to winter storage. Hard-headed cabbage was developed in northern Europe during the Middle Ages, and soft-headed cabbages, such as savoy, are believed to have originated earlier in southern Europe. Head cabbage, generally designated simply “cabbage,” is a major table vegetable in most countries of the temperate zone. Harvest is recommended during the fall season, and the green lunar is resistant to cold climates and can flourish in harsher environments. Full of dietary fiber and potassium, pointed cabbage is also known to support the immune system. No matter it's origin, there's sure to be plenty of sauerkraut to go around. Portuguese cabbage makes a name for itself in traditional Portuguese hot stew dishes such as caldo verde, feijoada, and cozido à Portuguesa. Notable ceramics designer Bordallo Pinheiro even created an entire line of intricate dishware dedicated to the art and architecture of the cabbage and the role it served in the country's cultural heritage. surprising health benefits of cabbage Distinguished by dark green, oval-shaped leaves, and bright white stalks, the natural artistry of Portuguese cabbage makes it clear why Pinheiro selected them as the center point of his pottery collection. The leaves are high in vitamin C, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron, making Portuguese cabbage another healthy addition to your dinner plate. Native to the Yangtze River delta region in China, bok choy is a type of cabbage that has a mild yet bright and subtly sweet flavor. Red cabbage has a bit more of a peppery and bitter taste to its crunch, separating it from its milder, sweeter companions, such as green and white cabbage. As you peel back the frilly layers of the savoy, coming closer to the bulb at the center of the vegetable, the leaves become softer and lean towards a light yellow shade. Helps with weight management The flavor of bok choy is dependent on which season throughout the year the vegetable is harvested. For a fresher variation, finely chop the napa cabbage leaves and combine them into a salad. Its thick white ribs and slightly tougher, elongated, light green leaves are easily recognizable. If cooking red cabbage, maintain its notable purple shade by adding a form of acid, such as vinegar or lemon. All forms of cabbage have succulent leaves that are free of hairs and covered with a waxy coating, which often gives the leaf surface a gray-green or blue-green colour. While we may not have reliable sunshine in the UK, we can certainly tap into the wide-ranging health benefits offered by the Mediterranean diet. Including a serving or two of cabbage in your meals can help you meet these targets while reaping its many health benefits. In this article, we explore vitamin D foods you might not expect and how to include them in your diet. Vitamin D plays an essential role in bone health, immunity, and mood, yet many people in the UK don’t get enough, especially during the darker months. Cabbage is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of simple, tasty ways to enjoy it as part of your everyday meals. A standard serving of cabbage is around 80 grams cooked or 1 cup raw. Cook green lunar cabbage by sautéing it with shallots, garlic, olive oil, and sage leaves to create a healthy, robust dish. This cabbage appears somewhat flat in its shape with tightly packed bright green leaves. You can use pointed cabbage as a substitute for other varieties in recipes; some recommend shredding the leaves before cooking. One of the cultivators of the green lunar cabbage, Takii, describes the green lunar cabbage as a hybrid variety. Due to the crinkled texture of the leaves, pointed cabbage is easily digestible, protects the stomach and intestines, and aids in supporting gut health. Often described with an intense peppery flavor, mammoth red rock cabbage is optimal for pickling to preserve and heighten the hearty flavor. When cultivating mammoth red rock cabbage, patience is necessary because it takes 100 days for this variety to age to maturity. What is commonly known as the "headless cabbage," kale came to the rise as a health food hero. Healthy eating Packed with vitamin c and k How you eat your cabbage can make a big difference in the nutrients you get. Cabbage is low in carbohydrates and high in fibre, which helps slow digestion and prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels.12 Just one cup of raw cabbage has only about 22 calories making it a smart, satisfying addition to meals for anyone looking to maintain or lose weight. The fibre also helps slow digestion, helps control appetite, and supports steady energy levels throughout the day.10 Recognized as a large white bulb of tightly packed leaves, despite its name, this cabbage turns a shade of green once the leaves are peeled back. Besides immense health benefits, such as increased bone health, digestive health, and heart health, red cabbage has found its way into a multitude of recipes all over the world. Competing as one of the largest in the cabbage family, the bulb of the savoy cabbage (sometimes referred to as "curly cabbage") is encircled by tough, crinkled, and loose leaves with a dark green hue. The January King has a similar rough, crinkled texture to the savoy cabbage and can be cooked by roasting or sautéing the leaves to draw out the sweet flavor. Similar in flavor and construction to its extremely close relative, the green cannonball cabbage, the green lunar can be prepared similarly and used as a substitute for any recipe that calls for green cabbage. Still,l the versatility and flavor are enough to convert someone into a fan. According to the Mayo Clinic, the high amounts of vitamins A, K, B6, and C are enough to entice someone to implement this hearty leaf into their diet. Bok choy is particularly high in vitamins C and K and, according to Healthline, may even contain properties that battle and prevent cancer. According to a study described in Science Direct, this will affect the anthocyanin in the cabbage and keep the color bright. This type of cabbage appears as a bold, jewel-toned, deep purple in the produce section of your nearest grocery store. January King cabbage Red cabbage is most commonly prepared raw to take advantage of the glorious purple color. Because of the thicker texture of the exterior savoy leaves, they don't need much time to cook and maintain their shape, unlike the lighter structure of the leaves that decorate the interior. These include okonomiyaki, a Japanese cabbage pancake in which finely chopped cabbage is combined with a mixture of pork, scallions, flour, and spices to create a savory explosion of balanced flavor. The brassica vegetable family, which includes cabbage, comes in all shapes, colors, and sizes. Cabbage, (Brassica oleracea), vegetable and fodder plant of the mustard family (Brassicaceae), the various agricultural forms of which have been developed by long cultivation from the wild cabbage (Brassica oleracea). Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics. Like other vegetables, cabbage counts toward your “5-a-day,” the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables for a balanced diet. As a cruciferous vegetable, cabbage contains glucosinolates that break down into bioactive compounds shown to help protect cells from DNA damage. Green cabbage can be eaten raw, cooked, roasted, pickled, or even fermented. The common forms of cabbage may be classified according to the plant parts used for food and the structure or arrangement of those parts, as follows. Patient is a UK registered trade mark. Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control. A Mediterranean diet conjures up an image of fresh fish and colourful salads doused in olive oil, washed down with a glass of red wine - all while sitting in the sun of course. By supporting this process, cabbage helps reduce the build-up of harmful substances and supports overall metabolic and liver health. Standing out among other cabbage varieties, the January King cabbage is known for its extraordinary leaves. Bring out the flavors of the parel cabbage by finely chopping the crisp leaves, sautéing them with garlic, and mixing them into a hearty winter stew. If you can't seem to find this cabbage variety in your nearest grocery store, growing it yourself is an option, though there will be effort required. Simplicity is the star in that recipe as the thick slices of cabbage soak up the tangy marinade of olive oil, butter, lemon, and red pepper flakes bringing nothing short of a flavor bomb to your next dinner party. This will break down the cell wall and remove some of the bitter flavors. If opting to eat it raw in a salad, take the time to gently massage the leaves with a bit of acid such as lemon juice, some salt, and perhaps an oil. The uses for kale are endless, ranging from steaming or roasting to blending it into a smoothie or turning it into chips. Also known as the "palm tree cabbage" or "Tuscan kale," Tuscan cabbage serves as a staple in Italy, specifically in the Tuscan region. It come as an ornamental or a vegetable used year-long as the temperatures change the texture of the leaves. Kale has its own assortment of varieties, such as red Russian, Siberian, redbor, and winterbor, just to name a few.