Are you tired of the same old green or white cabbage recipes? Look no further! Purple cabbage is a hidden gem that adds a pop of color and flavor to any dish. With its sweet, slightly earthy taste and stunning deep purple hue, it’s no wonder this versatile veggie has gained popularity in recent years. Whether you’re looking for a crunchy slaw to top your tacos or a hearty soup to warm up on a chilly evening, we’ve got you covered with our 18 vibrant purple cabbage recipes.
From classic combinations like braised purple cabbage with bacon to innovative twists like purple cabbage and mango salsa, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of this beautiful vegetable. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So go ahead, get creative, and add a splash of purple to your cooking routine!
Purple Cabbage and Apple Slaw
Brighten up your meals with this sweet and tangy slaw made with purple cabbage, crisp apples, and a hint of citrus. This refreshing side dish is perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or serving alongside your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large apple, diced (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced purple cabbage and diced apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, mayonnaise, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and chill.
Braised Purple Cabbage with Bacon
This recipe transforms purple cabbage into a tender, sweet, and savory side dish, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a topping for sandwiches. The addition of crispy bacon adds a smoky depth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon; set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced cabbage, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Return the cooked bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pickled Purple Cabbage with Carrots
Add a tangy twist to your meals with this colorful pickling recipe! This sweet and sour combination of purple cabbage and carrots makes a perfect accompaniment to sandwiches, salads, or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) water
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– 1/4 tsp (1.25g) ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, water, salt, and pepper until dissolved.
3. Pour the pickling liquid over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 7 days.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refrigerator-pickled recipe.
Purple Cabbage Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger
This vibrant stir-fry combines the sweet and slightly bitter flavors of purple cabbage with the pungency of garlic and ginger, creating a harmonious balance of tastes. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, chili flakes, or sesame seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add the cabbage; cook, stirring frequently, until slightly tender (about 5 minutes).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Purple Cabbage Steaks with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple and flavorful recipe that showcases the natural sweetness of purple cabbage. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large purple cabbage, cored and sliced into 1-inch thick steaks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cabbage steaks with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the cabbage steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
5. While the cabbage is roasting, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Remove the roasted cabbage from the oven and brush with the balsamic glaze.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Chickpea Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, featuring the sweetness of purple cabbage and the creaminess of chickpeas. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 can of chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced purple cabbage to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Add the chickpeas to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage mixture.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning the chickpea-cabbage mixture onto tortillas and topping with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Purple Cabbage Kimchi
This vibrant kimchi recipe combines the natural sweetness of purple cabbage with a spicy kick from Korean chili flakes (gochugaru). Perfect for adding a pop of color and flavor to your favorite dishes, this fermented delight is a must-try for any kimchi enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup of fish sauce
– 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and Korean chili flakes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together fish sauce, rice vinegar, water, garlic, and ginger.
3. Pour the liquid mixture over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Transfer the kimchi to a jar with a tight-fitting lid and press down on the cabbage to remove any air pockets.
5. Leave the kimchi at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a fermented recipe!
Purple Cabbage and Beetroot Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of beetroot with the tanginess of purple cabbage, perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner. The vibrant colors and earthy flavors will delight your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and grated beetroot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and beetroot mixture, tossing to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Purple Cabbage Soup with Sausage and Potatoes
This comforting soup combines the sweetness of purple cabbage with the savory flavors of sausage and potatoes, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, diced potatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Quinoa Bowl with Tahini Dressing
This vibrant bowl combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the slightly sweet taste of purple cabbage, all topped off with a creamy tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 small head purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced cabbage and cook until slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. To assemble the bowls, divide cooked quinoa among four bowls. Top with sautéed cabbage and drizzle with tahini dressing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Purple Cabbage Rolls Stuffed with Ground Turkey
These vibrant purple cabbage rolls are filled with the savory flavor of ground turkey, perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the earthy taste of turkey and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized purple cabbage
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the outer leaves from the cabbage and blanch it in boiling water for 5 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey with olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until browned.
4. Unroll the cabbage and place a spoonful of the turkey mixture onto each leaf.
5. Roll up the leaves tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Mango Salsa
This refreshing salsa combines the crunch of purple cabbage with the sweetness of mango, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. With its unique flavor profile, this salsa will be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine purple cabbage, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in honey until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is best served chilled, making it perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Purple Cabbage and Lentil Curry
This vibrant curry is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with the nutritional benefits of purple cabbage and lentils. It’s a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in shredded purple cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Purple Cabbage Wedges with Lemon Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, these grilled purple cabbage wedges are perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or topping for your favorite meals. The tangy lemon dressing adds a burst of citrus flavor to balance out the sweetness of the caramelized cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the cabbage into wedges and brush with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the cabbage for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and honey.
6. Serve the grilled cabbage wedges with the lemon dressing drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Fennel Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
A refreshing winter salad that combines the sweetness of orange with the crunch of purple cabbage and fennel. This flavorful and healthy dish is perfect for a light lunch or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 bulbs fennel, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and fennel.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Purple Cabbage and Sweet Potato Hash
This sweet and savory hash combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of purple cabbage, all wrapped up in a crispy, caramelized package.
Ingredients:
– 1 large purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, toss purple cabbage with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread cabbage mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized and slightly tender.
5. Once sweet potatoes and cabbage are done, combine them in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up sweet potatoes into smaller pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and crispy (about 10-12 minutes).
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes.
Purple Cabbage and Blue Cheese Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this purple cabbage and blue cheese salad is a perfect combination of crunchy and creamy textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of purple cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced purple cabbage and crumbled blue cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Purple Cabbage Smoothie with Berries and Yogurt
This refreshing smoothie combines the earthy sweetness of purple cabbage with the tartness of mixed berries and creaminess of yogurt. Perfect for a post-workout snack or a healthy breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and cooled purple cabbage
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine cooked purple cabbage, frozen mixed berries, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add unsweetened almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to unleash the vibrant color and flavor of purple cabbage in your kitchen! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this underrated veggie. From classic slaws and salads to bold stir-fries, soups, and even smoothies, there’s something for every occasion and taste bud. Discover how to pair it with bacon, chickpeas, beets, and more in dishes like Braised Purple Cabbage with Bacon, Purple Cabbage and Chickpea Tacos, and Purple Cabbage Smoothie with Berries and Yogurt. Let the creativity flow and get inspired by these vibrant purple cabbage recipes!
