- Last updated November 16, 2023
Do you throw the outer leaves of cabbage without knowing its health benefits? If so, you’re not alone. Many new gardeners discard cabbage leaves while harvesting because they have no idea if these leaves are edible or not. Some people add the outer cabbage leaves to the compost heap, while others use them to feed their animals.
In this article, we will answer questions about cabbage leaves. You will also discover the nutritional value and benefits of cabbage.
Quick view of this article:
- Can You Eat Outer Leaves Of Cabbage?
- Are Cabbage Leaves Edible?
- What To Do With Giant Cabbage Leaves?
- Can You Eat Red Cabbage Leaves?
- Can You Eat Cabbage Leaves Before The Head Forms?
- Can You Eat Cabbage After It Flowers?
- Benefits Of Cabbage Leaves
- Cabbage Nutrition Value
Can You Eat Outer Leaves Of Cabbage?
The answer is yes, you can eat the outer leaves of cabbage, both raw or cooked. The outer leaves of cabbage can be used in salads or to make coleslaw. You can also eat them as an alternative to lettuce.
Cabbage leaves should be washed thoroughly before preparing or consuming them to ensure no dirt or insect residue remains.
Are Cabbage Leaves Edible?
Yes, cabbage leaves are edible and safe to eat. Besides leaves, you can also eat the other parts of a cabbage plant, including the roots and stalk. In short, the whole cabbage plant is edible.
What To Do With Giant Cabbage Leaves?
You can do a lot with giant cabbage leaves. For example:
- Use them raw in your favorite salads,
- Cut cabbage leaves to make coleslaw,
- Stir-fry these leaves,
- Make sauerkraut,
- Make cabbage chips,
- Ferment its leaves to make Kimchi,
- Pre-boil the cabbage leaves to soften them. Then make cabbage rolls or wraps and stuff them with your favorite veggies and/or meat.
Can You Eat Red Cabbage Leaves?
Yes, you can eat red cabbage leaves. Red cabbage has a slightly different taste than ordinary green cabbage. It has a peppery aftertaste when eaten raw, but it turns sweeter and softer after cooking. How to eat red cabbage, you ask? Simple, same as all other color cabbages. You can eat them raw, make salads, coleslaw, stir-fry, Kimchi, wraps, and much more.
Can You Eat Cabbage Leaves Before The Head Forms?
Yes, you can eat leaves of cabbage that did not form the head yet. The cabbage is covered with loosely wrapped leaves in the early growth stage. As the head matures, the leaves become more compact. So, you can harvest and use these leaves at any time.
Can You Eat Cabbage After It Flowers?
Yes, but you have to eat them as soon as possible to avoid the bitter taste. When flowers emerge, cabbage abandons the leaf growth, becoming bitter. The plant gives all its energy to the flower bolting and seed production for the next generation of cabbage.
Benefits Of Cabbage Leaves
Let’s briefly discuss the benefits of cabbage leaves.
- Rich in nutrients,
- Full of antioxidants,
- Reduces inflammation,
- Good for digestion,
- It can be used in a variety of dishes,
- You can ferment it,
- Cheap and easy to grow.
Cabbage Nutrition Value
Below is a table of the nutritional value of cabbage leaves. [1]
| Nutrients | Nutrition per 1 leaf (15 g) |
|---|---|
| Water | 13.8 g |
| Energy | 3.75 kcal (15.4 kJ) |
| Protein | 0.192 g |
| Fat | 0.015 g |
| Ash | 0.096 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.87 g |
| Fiber | 0.375 g |
| Sugars, Total including NLEA | 0.48 g |
| Sucrose | 0.012 g |
| Glucose | 0.251 g |
| Fructose | 0.217 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 6 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 1.8 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 3.9 mg |
| Potassium, K | 25.5 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 2.7 mg |
| Vitamin C, Total ascorbic acid | 5.49 mg |
| Vitamin A, RAE | 0.75 µg |
| Vitamin A, IU | 14.7 IU |
| Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) | 0.022 mg |
| Vitamin K (phylloquinone) | 11.4 µg |
| Fatty acids, Total saturated | 0.005 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
What To Do Next
Next time you harvest cabbage, there’s no need to throw the outer leaves into the trash or compost bin. Make a stir-fry, Kimchi, cabbage chips, cabbage wraps, or coleslaw. Enjoy a healthy, low-carb meal with your friends and family.
If you want to find out more about harvesting cabbage, check out this informative video below:
I hope this article answers your questions. Check out ourGrowing Guidesto learn more about how to grow plants of your choice. Learn and help your plants by reading these guides.
Also, check out other similar articles in our Gardening How To section.
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As an avid gardening enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I can assure you that understanding the full potential of your crops, like cabbage, is essential for a truly rewarding gardening experience. My expertise extends beyond mere cultivation; I delve deep into the nutritional aspects, culinary applications, and overall benefits of plants. Let me break down the concepts discussed in the article to shed light on the valuable insights provided.
Can You Eat Outer Leaves Of Cabbage?
Absolutely! The outer leaves of cabbage are not only edible but also a nutritious addition to your diet. Whether consumed raw in salads, as a lettuce alternative, or cooked in various dishes, these leaves offer a versatile culinary experience. Proper washing is crucial to remove any dirt or insect residue.
What To Do With Giant Cabbage Leaves?
Giant cabbage leaves open up a world of culinary possibilities. From raw usage in salads to making coleslaw, stir-frying, sauerkraut, and even fermenting to make Kimchi, these leaves can be pre-boiled for cabbage rolls or wraps stuffed with your favorite ingredients. The versatility of giant cabbage leaves makes them a delightful resource in the kitchen.
Can You Eat Red Cabbage Leaves?
Certainly! Red cabbage leaves are not only edible but also distinguishable by their unique taste. When consumed raw, they have a peppery aftertaste, while cooking transforms them into a sweeter and softer option. Just like green cabbage, red cabbage can be used in salads, coleslaw, stir-fries, Kimchi, wraps, and more.
Can You Eat Cabbage Leaves Before The Head Forms?
Indeed, you can. In the early growth stage, cabbage is covered with loosely wrapped leaves, and these can be harvested and used at any time. The leaves are not dependent on the formation of the cabbage head, providing flexibility in harvesting.
Can You Eat Cabbage After It Flowers?
Yes, but prompt consumption is advised to avoid bitterness. When cabbage flowers emerge, the plant shifts its energy towards flower bolting and seed production, potentially leading to a bitter taste in the leaves.
Benefits Of Cabbage Leaves
Cabbage leaves are not just a culinary delight; they also boast numerous health benefits. Rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and known for reducing inflammation, cabbage leaves contribute to good digestion. Their versatility in dishes, ease of fermentation, and cost-effectiveness make them an excellent addition to a balanced diet.
Cabbage Nutrition Value
A comprehensive table details the nutritional value of cabbage leaves per 1 leaf (15 g). From water content to essential vitamins and minerals, cabbage leaves offer a low-calorie, nutrient-dense option for a healthy lifestyle.
What To Do Next
The article rightly emphasizes the importance of not discarding outer cabbage leaves. Instead, embrace them in various culinary creations like stir-fries, Kimchi, cabbage chips, wraps, or coleslaw. The provided nutritional information and growing guides serve as valuable resources for anyone interested in optimizing their cabbage harvest.
In conclusion, exploring the full potential of cabbage leaves not only enhances your culinary repertoire but also ensures you make the most of your gardening efforts. Happy harvesting!
