Different ways to cut cabbage explained

Cabbage, a humble yet versatile vegetable, has been a staple in kitchens for centuries. Its journey from the fields to our plates is a story of culinary evolution, where simple cooking techniques meet the art of preparing wholesome meals. This article delves into how this leafy green can be transformed to enhance our daily cooking experience.  

With its layers of crisp leaves, cabbage comes in a variety of types – from the deep purples of red cabbage to the pale greens of the savoy and the firm, tightly packed leaves of the green cabbage. Each type offers unique flavours and textures, making cabbage a chameleon of the vegetable world. Whether it’s the star of a dish or a subtle addition, understanding how to cut cabbage effectively can greatly influence the outcome of your meal.  

In the realm of cooking, cabbage is celebrated not just for its nutritional value, which includes being rich in vitamins C and K, but also for its ability to adapt to a wide range of culinary applications. From the rustic charm of a traditional British bubble and squeak to the exotic flavours of Asian stir-fries, cabbage is a global traveller on our dinner plates. However, the secret to unlocking its potential lies in how it's prepared, which starts with cutting it correctly. 

The art of cutting cabbage is not just a mechanical process; it's about respecting the ingredient, understanding its structure, and using it to its full potential. Whether you are slicing it thinly for a delicate slaw, chopping it into hearty chunks for a warming soup, or cutting it into wedges for a roast, each cutting method releases different aspects of its flavour and texture.  

Moreover, this guide aims to empower home cooks with the knowledge to utilise cabbage in its entirety, advocating for a sustainable approach to cooking. Learning to minimise waste by using all parts of the cabbage is an economically smart choice and an environmentally friendly practice. It encourages us to think creatively about our food and how we prepare it. 

As we explore the various ways to cut cabbage, remember that each method brings unique qualities to your dishes. Your chosen technique can transform the humble cabbage into something extraordinary, elevating everyday meals into culinary delights. So, let us embark on this journey of discovery, where we learn to cut cabbage in ways that celebrate its versatility and bring out the best in this leafy green. 

How do you clean cabbage 

Cleaning cabbage is a simple yet important step in preparing it for your meals. Begin by removing the outermost leaves, which are often a bit wilted or dirty. Rinse the remaining cabbage under cold running water, turning it around to ensure water reaches between the layers. Sometimes, a gentle brush can help remove any stubborn dirt or insects hiding in the nooks. Pat the cabbage dry with a clean towel before cutting it to avoid any water diluting the flavours of your dish. This process not only cleans the cabbage but also readies it for cooking, ensuring that your dishes are both delicious and hygienic. 

How to cut cabbage for slaw 

When preparing cabbage for slaw, the way you slice it can significantly affect the texture and taste of your salad. Start by halving the cabbage and removing the core, which can be a bit tough. Then, slice the halves as thinly as possible to achieve delicate shreds that will absorb dressings well and provide a pleasant crunch. These fine slices make the cabbage perfect for a light, refreshing slaw, marrying well with a variety of dressings and other slaw ingredients. 

How to cut cabbage for soups  

Cutting the cabbage correctly for soups can enhance the dish’s overall texture and flavour. Chop the cabbage into chunkier pieces, which hold up well during the cooking process and add a satisfying bite to each spoonful. Whether it’s a hearty winter soup or a lighter broth, these robust pieces of cabbage contribute both body and subtle sweetness, enriching the soup without overpowering other ingredients. 

How to julienne cabbage  

Julienning cabbage involves slicing it into thin, long strips, a technique that's perfect for stir-fries or as a garnish. After removing the core, lay the cabbage flat and carefully cut it into uniform strips. This style of cutting not only looks attractive but also allows the cabbage to cook quickly and evenly, infusing your dishes with its mild, sweet flavour and adding a delightful texture. 

How do you cut cabbages into wedges?  

Cutting cabbage into wedges is ideal for roasting or grilling. Start by slicing the cabbage into halves and then into quarters, keeping the core intact so the leaves hold together. These wedges can then be seasoned and cooked to create a dish where the cabbage’s natural sugars caramelise beautifully, offering a deliciously sweet and tender result. 

What part of the cabbage do you cut?  

In most dishes, the part of the cabbage you'll want to use is the leafy head, which is both flavourful and tender. The core, although edible, is often removed as it’s tougher and takes longer to cook. However, it can be chopped finely and used in dishes where it has time to soften, like stews or broths, ensuring you make the most of the whole vegetable. 

How to cut cabbage: a video

In a brief video, Sonya from A Couple Cooks explains how to cut and shred cabbage properly. At the video's outset, she stresses the importance of removing the tough outer layers. She also suggests it's best to do this by hand. It's well-known that these layers can be challenging to cut through.

In the same video, she cuts a red cabbage by firmly holding the knife's base and slicing off its root. Then she stands the cabbage up and cuts it lengthwise into quarters.

We recommend watching the video because while a written explanation offers some guidance, truly grasping the technique requires seeing it done. 

How to cook cabbage: 10 recipes from around the world

Now that you have learned how to cut cabbage properly, why not dive into our article on how to cook cabbage? Discover tips, recipes, and handy advice on selecting, storing and cooking this versatile veggie.