Steaming Cabbage: Pressure Cooker Perfection In Minutes

How Long to Steam Cabbage in a Pressure Cooker?

Steaming cabbage in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy way to prepare this healthy, versatile, and budget-friendly vegetable. The cooking time depends on your desired texture, with shorter cooking times resulting in crispier cabbage and longer times producing softer cabbage.

For softer cabbage, most sources recommend cooking for around 5-7 minutes on high pressure. However, some sources suggest cooking for up to 10 minutes for very soft cabbage. On the other hand, for crispier cabbage, reduce the cooking time to 3-4 minutes.

Regardless of the desired texture, it's important to remember that the total cooking time includes the time it takes for the pressure cooker to build up pressure, which can be around 10-15 minutes. Additionally, different pressure cookers may have specific instructions for releasing pressure, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

How to prepare cabbage for steaming

Steaming is a great way to cook cabbage, preserving its flavour and nutrients. It can be done in a pressure cooker, steamer, microwave, or on the stove. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare cabbage for steaming:

First, remove the outer leaves of the cabbage as they are tough and may carry residual pesticides. Then, cut the cabbage. You can either thinly slice it or cut it into wedges. If you are using a pressure cooker, it is recommended to cut the cabbage into wedges; cut the cabbage in half, then slice each half into thin slices and separate the slices with your hands into strips.

Next, rinse the cabbage under cold water to remove any dirt. Place the cabbage in a colander and do not dry it off, as the water will help it steam. You can add a tablespoon of water to the bottom of the pan, but this is usually unnecessary.

Now, you are ready to steam the cabbage. The cooking time will depend on the method you are using and the type of cabbage. For example, if you are steaming sliced cabbage on the stove, it should take about 5 minutes. If you are steaming wedges, it will take a little longer, about 10 minutes.

Once the cabbage is steamed to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the heat and season it. You can keep it simple with just butter and salt, or add other seasonings like garlic, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, or dried parsley. Enjoy your delicious and healthy steamed cabbage!

How to cook cabbage in a pressure cooker

Ingredients

Depending on your preference, you can use either red or green cabbage for this recipe. You will also need:

• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1/4-1/2 cup butter (unsalted)
• 1 tsp coarse kosher sea salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano or dried thyme

Method

• Cut the head of cabbage in half and slice the core out. Cut each half into four separate pieces, then slice across the pieces and cut the cabbage into 1-inch squares.
• Add the broth, water, and butter to the pressure cooker.
• Place the cut cabbage on top and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Close the lid and lock it, ensuring the valve is switched to sealing.
• Select the manual mode (high pressure) and set a timer for 3-7 minutes, depending on how soft you want your cabbage to be.
• Once cooked, switch the valve to venting and manually or quickly release the pressure.
• When the float valve has dropped, carefully remove the lid and use a slotted spoon to remove the cabbage from the pot.
• Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, and serve.

Tips

• You can add in more flavours by including onion, bacon, potatoes, or smoked sausage.
• For extra spice, add in a little oregano or thyme.
• If you want the cabbage to be slightly crunchy, decrease the cooking time by a minute or two. If you prefer your cabbage very soft, add a minute or two.
• You can store the cooked cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.

How long to steam cabbage for different textures

Steaming cabbage in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy way to prepare this nutritious vegetable. The cooking time will depend on your desired texture, ranging from slightly crunchy to very soft. Here is a guide to help you achieve the perfect texture for your steamed cabbage.

Slightly Crunchy Cabbage

For those who prefer their cabbage on the crunchier side, a shorter cooking time is necessary. Aim for a cooking time of around 3 to 4 minutes at high pressure. This will give your cabbage a slight bite while still being tender enough to enjoy. Remember to use the quick-release method to avoid overcooking.

Tender-Crisp Cabbage

If you like your cabbage to have a bit more give but still retain some crispness, aim for a cooking time of around 5 to 6 minutes at high pressure. This will result in cabbage that is tender but still has a pleasant bite to it. Again, be sure to release the pressure quickly to prevent overcooking.

Very Soft Cabbage

For those who enjoy their cabbage nice and soft, a longer cooking time is in order. Aim for around 6 to 7 minutes at high pressure. This will result in cabbage that is very tender and easy to chew. As with the other textures, remember to release the pressure quickly to avoid overcooking.

Adjusting for Size and Taste

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of your cabbage. Smaller cabbages may require slightly less time, while larger ones might need a minute or two more. Always taste your cabbage after cooking to ensure it's done to your liking. You can also adjust the seasoning accordingly to enhance the flavor.

Tips for Preparation

When preparing your cabbage for cooking, start by washing it and cutting it into halves or wedges. Remove the tough core, and then slice the cabbage into smaller pieces. You can fill your pressure cooker with cabbage, ensuring it doesn't interfere with the closing of the lid. The cabbage will shrink during cooking, so don't be afraid to fill it up.

Additionally, you can experiment with different liquids and seasonings to enhance the flavor of your steamed cabbage. Chicken or vegetable broth are popular choices, but water can also be used if you don't have broth on hand. Butter, salt, pepper, and various herbs like thyme, oregano, or garlic powder can also be added to taste.

Now you're ready to steam cabbage to your desired texture in your pressure cooker!

How to release pressure from the cooker

How to Release Pressure from a Cooker

There are several methods to release pressure from a cooker, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to do so:

Quick Pressure Release

This method is ideal when you're in a hurry and need to get your meal on the table quickly. After your food has finished cooking, follow these steps:

• Press the "cancel" button on your pressure cooker.
• Move the valve to the "venting" position.

This method usually takes around 2-3 minutes to complete and helps prevent overcooking. It is also recommended if you tend to overcook your food. However, avoid using cold water with this method as it may damage your cooker.

Natural Pressure Release

The natural release method is slower, taking anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes depending on the meal. Instead of a quick release, you let the pressure decrease slowly until you're ready to serve. Here are two ways to do it:

• Wait until the pressure naturally lowers and the lid-lock disengages before opening the valve.
• Alternatively, wait for about 10 minutes after the recipe cooking time has finished, then open the valve for a slightly faster release.

This method is beneficial for tenderizing meat and ensuring grains are thoroughly cooked.

Intermittent Pressure Release

This method combines the benefits of both quick and natural releases. It allows you to access your food quickly while ensuring it's properly cooked. To do an intermittent release:

• Toggle the pressure release valve between open and closed positions several times.
• Allow the pressure to decrease naturally while stopping foam from escaping through the valve.
• Check if there is still foaming before removing the lid and serving your food.

This approach helps avoid spitting associated with a quick release and overcooking with a natural release.

Normal Pressure Release

Also known as Quick or Manual release, this is a fast method that usually takes 2-3 minutes. Use the valve or pressure-releasing mechanism on your cooker to release the pressure. For thicker recipes like chili or risotto, give the cooker a few small jolts after releasing the pressure to release any super-heated pockets. This method is suitable for quick-cooking foods and vegetables but not recommended for legumes, rice, or fruit-based recipes.

Slow Normal Pressure Release

This method is relatively fast, taking around 5-6 minutes. It is similar to the Normal release but involves releasing the pressure very slowly. If your valve only allows for a full-throttle release, release the pressure in short bursts. If anything other than steam escapes from the valve (like foam), close the valve for 10 seconds before the next slow release. Use this method for grains, legumes, and fruits.

What to serve with steamed cabbage

Steamed cabbage is a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas for what to serve with steamed cabbage:

Proteins

Steamed cabbage goes well with various proteins, including chicken, beef, pork, and seafood. You can serve it alongside dishes such as:

• Honey Garlic Chicken
• Chicken Marsala
• Chicken Cacciatore
• Chicken Biryani
• HK Tomato Beef
• Mississippi Pot Roast
• Instant Pot Pork Chops
• Chinese Sticky Rice
• Pork Adobo
• Grilled steaks
• Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin

Vegetarian Options

For a vegetarian or vegan meal, steamed cabbage can be served with:

• Homemade Vegan Meatloaf
• Grilled Marinated Tofu
• Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes
• Vegan Creamed Corn
• Oil-Free Oven-Roasted Potatoes
• Cornbread

Other Sides

Steamed cabbage can also be paired with other side dishes, such as:

• Coleslaw
• Corned Beef
• Pot Roast
• Crock Pot Meals
• Healthy Bowls

Seasonings and Toppings

Finally, you can enhance the flavor of steamed cabbage with various seasonings and toppings, such as:

• Butter
• Salt and Pepper
• Garlic Powder
• Parmesan Cheese and Lemon Zest
• Crunchy Chili Onion
• Everything Bagel Seasoning
• Flavored Olive Oil (e.g., lemon olive oil)
• Thai Peanut Sauce
• Crumbled, Cooked Bacon
• Spicy Cashew Dressing

Frequently asked questions