Steaming Cabbage In A Pressure Cooker: Quick And Easy!

Steaming cabbage in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy way to make a tasty, healthy, and budget-friendly side dish. It is also a great way to retain most of the nutrients in the vegetable. You can use either green or red cabbage and cook it with butter, broth or stock, and seasonings like salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and garlic. The cooking time depends on your preference for the texture of the cabbage, but it typically ranges from 3 to 7 minutes.

How to cut cabbage for pressure cooking

To cut cabbage for pressure cooking, start by removing the outer leaves and rinsing the head under cold water. Then, cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core from each piece. You can adjust the size of the wedges or slices according to your desired texture. Smaller pieces will result in softer cabbage, while larger pieces will yield a firmer texture. Ensure that the cabbage pieces fit comfortably inside your pressure cooker.

After cutting the cabbage, place the pieces into the pressure cooker and add water or broth. The liquid is necessary to create steam, which builds pressure and cooks the cabbage effectively. The amount of liquid needed typically ranges from 1/2 to 2 cups, depending on the size of your pressure cooker.

Once the cabbage is in the cooker, secure the lid and turn it on, setting it to high pressure. It will take around 10 minutes for the pressure to build up. Once the desired pressure is reached, reduce the heat to maintain the pressure and cook for another 5-7 minutes.

After the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, open the lid and season the cabbage with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings of your choice. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly, and your pressure-cooked cabbage is ready to be served!

How to season cabbage before steaming

To season cabbage before steaming, you can either cut the cabbage into wedges or shred it into strips. If you prefer your cabbage to have more crunch, cutting it into wedges is the way to go. For a softer texture, shredding the cabbage is the better option.

Once you've cut your cabbage, you can season it with a variety of spices and herbs. Some common seasonings include butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also get creative and experiment with different toppings, such as Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, chili onion, or even everything bagel seasoning.

Additionally, you can try different flavor profiles by using alternative seasonings. For an Asian-inspired dish, try drizzling your cabbage with soy sauce and sesame oil. You can also add some protein to your meal by including bacon bits or grated Parmesan cheese.

After seasoning, place the cabbage in a steamer basket or a large, deep skillet. Make sure there is water at the bottom of your cooking vessel to create steam. Cover and cook until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of bite.

By following these steps, you can create a delicious and healthy side dish with a buttery taste that's hard to beat!

How to serve steamed cabbage

Steamed cabbage is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

As a Side Dish

Cabbage is a healthy and tasty side dish that goes well with almost any main course. You can serve it alongside dishes like pot roast, corned beef hash, or lemon pepper chicken. It also pairs well with cornbread.

In Soups and Stews

Steamed cabbage can be added to soups and stews to boost their nutritional content and flavour. It goes well with soups like black-eyed pea soup and can also be included in stews.

With Meat and Other Ingredients

You can also add steamed cabbage to dishes with meat and other ingredients. For example, you can cook it with bacon, ham, onion, bacon, potatoes, or smoked sausage.

Seasonings and Spices

Feel free to experiment with seasonings and spices to enhance the flavour of steamed cabbage. You can try adding oregano or thyme, or stick to the classic salt and pepper.

Reheating and Storage

If you have leftover steamed cabbage, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You can also freeze steamed cabbage for up to 2-3 months.

The health benefits of steamed cabbage

Cabbage is a leafy vegetable that has been cultivated for thousands of years. It comes in several varieties, including green, red, and savoy, and can be consumed raw or cooked. Steaming cabbage is a great way to prepare it, as it preserves most of its nutrients. Here are some of the health benefits of steamed cabbage:

Nutritional Powerhouse

Cabbage is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing about a third of your daily requirement per half cup. It also contains fibre, folate, potassium, magnesium, vitamins A and K, and more.

Aids Digestion

Cabbage is rich in fibre, which promotes a healthy digestive system by preventing constipation and maintaining a healthy gut. Eating steamed cabbage can also provide probiotics, which nourish the good bacteria in your gut, aiding digestion and controlling anxiety.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Cabbage contains several chemicals that help reduce inflammation in the body. This is beneficial as inflammation is linked to various health issues, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. Glutamine, an amino acid found in cabbage, is particularly effective in reducing joint pain and easing allergies.

Supports Heart Health

The anthocyanins and antioxidants in red cabbage help protect against heart disease. They reduce the risk of heart attacks and lower blood pressure and "bad" LDL cholesterol levels. Cabbage is also a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.

Cancer-Fighting Potential

Cabbage has long been associated with a lower risk of certain cancers due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The sulfur-containing compound sulforaphane, found in cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, has been shown to inhibit the progression of cancer cells.

Weight Management

Cabbage is a recommended food for weight loss due to its low-calorie content (33 calories per cup) and high fibre content, which helps you feel full and satisfied.

In addition to these benefits, cabbage is also known to boost immunity, improve brain health, heal ulcers, promote clear skin, and provide energy. It is a versatile and inexpensive vegetable that can be easily incorporated into your diet.

How to reheat steamed cabbage

How to Steam Cabbage in a Pressure Cooker

To steam cabbage in a pressure cooker, start by cutting up a head of cabbage into pieces. You can also add some bacon and butter to your pressure cooker for extra flavor. Place the cabbage, and any other desired ingredients, into the pressure cooker with some chicken broth and secure the lid. Turn the heat to high and, once the cooker reaches full pressure, lower the temperature and cook for around 3 minutes.

There are several ways to reheat steamed cabbage. One method is to use a saucepan of salted water, known as a "chaudfont", that is just below boiling point. Place the cabbage in a vegetable strainer or basket and submerge it in the hot salt water. After a few moments, the cabbage should be hot all the way through.

Alternatively, you can reheat cabbage in a skillet with some butter, or by making bubble and squeak patties. To make bubble and squeak, mix the cabbage with mashed potatoes, shape into patties, and fry in butter.

Frequently asked questions