This steamed cabbage recipe combines a head of cabbage with 4 super simple spices and transforms them into a wholesome, healthy side dish. The cabbage comes out tender with the perfect amount of crunch, and the simple spices infuse every bite with delicious flavor. It's a tasty dish that's simply out-of-this-world good. Plus, you only need 10 minutes of prep, and mostly hands-off cooking to make it!
Table of Contents
WHY I LOVE THIS STEAMED CABBAGE RECIPE
Okay, I know cabbage isn't usually the most exciting item on the menu, but trust me, this recipe is going to change the way you think about it.
For starters, the cabbage is steamed for the perfect amount of time. This helps to break it down just enough so it's not too crunchy, yet it still has a tender bite to it. I know that sounds like a small detail, but, trust me, it isn't.
On top of that, the careful balance of seasonings adds tons of flavor without adding any calories. In fact, this is one of the lowest calorie side dishes ever, at only 15 calories per serving!
As if this recipe couldn't get any better, it's also so easy to make. Everything comes together in one pot, so clean-up is done in seconds, and most of the time spent in the kitchen is hands-off. All in all, this entire side dish comes together in just 10 minutes.
INGREDIENTS
As I mentioned just a second ago, you only need one head of cabbage and 4 simple seasonings to make this recipe.
With that said, here's exactly what you'll need to make this recipe:
- 1 large cabbage head
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon parsley
How simple is that?!
By the way, I prefer green cabbage for this recipe, but you can certainly use any other type of cabbage, like red cabbage, napa cabbage, or purple cabbage. Just make sure to look for a head of cabbage with no bruises or brown spots.
HOW TO STEAM CABBAGE
Now that we've covered the ingredient list, let's go over the steps to make steamed cabbage!
As I said in the beginning, steaming cabbage is super simple. Basically all you have to do is prepare the cabbage, add it to a pot with your seasonings, and let it steam until tender.
Seriously, that's all there is to it!
STEP ONE: PREPARE THE CABBAGE
Start by cutting the cabbage in half. Then remove the core and slice each half into thin strips. Once all of the cabbage has been sliced, transfer it to a large bowl or colander and rinse the shredded cabbage.
Then, place the rinsed cabbage strips into a large pot. Don't worry about drying it since the moisture will help with steaming. If needed, add a tablespoon of water to the pot.
STEP TWO: STEAM THE CABBAGE
Next, heat the pot over medium high heat and cover it. When the cabbage begins to steam (after about 1 minute), reduce the heat to medium. Continue to steam the cabbage, covered, for about 5 minutes.
After 5 minutes, stir the cabbage and continue cooking uncovered for 2 more minutes to evaporate any remaining water. If there's still water at the bottom of the pot, drain it using a colander.
STEP THREE: SEASON AND SERVE
Now it's time to season the cooked cabbage with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes, stirring occasionally. Lastly, garnish the cabbage with a little fresh parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve the cabbage warm and enjoy!
HOW TO STORE STEAMED CABBAGE
This recipe makes 2-4 servings, depending on how hungry you are and what you're serving it with. That's more than enough to satisfy my hungry family!
That said, if you think you'll want more, it's pretty easy to double the recipe and store any leftovers.
Speaking of leftovers, allow the cabbage to cool to room temperature, then transfer everything to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
However, if you want to keep your cabbage fresher for longer, you can freeze any leftovers in a freezer-safe container and they'll stay good for up to 3 months.
HOW TO REHEAT STEAMED CABBAGE
The best way to eat cabbage is to warm it up first!
So, to reheat leftovers, either microwave them in 20-second increments until warm. Or, reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water, and cook until fully reheated.
FAQS ABOUT THIS STEAMED CABBAGE RECIPE
WHY DO YOU PUT BAKING SODA IN CABBAGE?
Some recipes call for adding baking soda to steamed cabbage because it helps maintain the green color and reduce the smell that not everyone is crazy about.
Personally, I don't mind the smell, and if you cook the cabbage for the perfect amount of time, it should maintain its color.
HOW DO YOU COOK CABBAGE WITHOUT MAKING IT SOGGY?
The best way to cook cabbage without it becoming soggy is to cook it in a small amount of water for a shorter period of time. You can also use a steamer basket, so the cabbage doesn't touch the water.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Well, that's how to make steamed cabbage perfect every time!
If you've been wondering how to turn a head of cabbage into something truly special, this recipe is for you. It's honestly one of the most delicious cabbage recipes I've made yet - and my whole family agrees.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy this steamed cabbage recipe as much as I/we do.
As always, if you give this recipe a try, be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think!
MORE SIDE DISH RECIPES
If you're looking for more delicious side dish recipes, I have a bunch of quick and easy recipes on the blog you can try next.
Check all of these out:
Oh, and if you're looking for even more tasty recipes, be sure to check out my Instagram, TikTok, and Youtube channel! I post new ones on them all of the time.

Easy 15 Minute Steamed Cabbage Recipe (Perfect Every Time)
This steamed cabbage recipe combines a head of cabbage with 4 super simple spices and transforms them into a wholesome, healthy side dish. The cabbage comes out tender with the perfect amount of crunch, and the simple spices infuse every bite with delicious flavor. It's a tasty dish that's simply out-of-this-world good. Plus, you only need 10 minutes of prep, and mostly hands-off cooking to make it!
Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage head
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon parsley
Instructions
1. Trim and shred the cabbage by cutting it in half, removing the core, slicing each half thinly, and separating the slices into strips. Rinse the cabbage strips in a bowl or colander.
2. Place the rinsed cabbage into a large, deep skillet without drying it, as the moisture will help with steaming. If needed, add a tablespoon of water to the skillet.
3. Heat the skillet on medium-high and cover it. When the cabbage begins to steam (after about 1 minute), reduce the heat to medium. Steam the cabbage, covered, for approximately 5 minutes.
4. Uncover the skillet, stir the cabbage, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to evaporate any remaining water. If excess water remains, drain it using a colander.
5. Season the cabbage with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Optionally, garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve the cabbage warm.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 31Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 2336mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 2gSugar: 2gProtein: 2g
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