How to Microwave Cabbage
Cooking cabbage in the microwave using is both a no-brainer and a game changer. When you steam cabbage this way, you lock in its nutrients and keep those flavors bright, without turning it into a sad, mushy mess. Just a few minutes and you’ve got perfectly tender cabbage that can shine on its own as a side or bring a fresh, crisp texture to a variety of dishes. For anyone mindful about what they eat, this is a clever, quick way to keep meals both healthy and delicious.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwaves and home kitchens to make sure they work — and work well.
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Small Dish
This dish’s superpower is evenly heating leftovers and cooking small portions.
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 1 cup (80g) shredded cabbage, red or green
- 1 teaspoon water, stock, butter or olive oil
Preparation
- Add the cabbage and water (butter, oil, or stock) in the Anyday dish.
- Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Serving suggestions & tips
- Cheesy Buffalo: season with Buffalo-style hot sauce, chives, and crumbled blue cheese, or feta cheese
- Cacio e pepe: toss in some parmesan or pecorino cheese, lots of ground black pepper and olive oil
- Crispy bacon and mustard: Add some chopped crispy bacon, grain mustard, olive oil and lemon juice
- Caesar style: add some Caesar dressing, chopped chives, shaved parmesan, and croutons.
Recipe notes
- Use any kind of cabbage thinly sliced or diced.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Microwave Match Up: Cabbage
See for yourself— microwaving cabbage is simply faster, start to finish. *Includes preheat time
| Appliance | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Microwave in an Anyday dish | 2-3 mins |
| Oven* | 15-20 mins |
| Stovetop* | 10-15 mins |
| Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* | 20 mins |
All You Need to Know About Microwaving Cabbage
How long does take to cook cabbage in the microwave?
| Ingredient | Water | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup (80g) shredded cabbage, red or green | 1 teaspoon water, stock, butter or olive oil | 1-2 mins |
| 2 cups (160g) shredded cabbage, red or green | 1 teaspoon water, stock, butter or olive oil | 1-2 mins |
| 4 cups (320g) shredded cabbage, red or green | 2 teaspoons water, stock, butter or olive oil | 4-5 mins |
| 6 cups (480g) shredded cabbage, red or green | 1 tablespoon water, stock, butter or olive oil | 6-7 mins |
| 8 cups (640g) shredded cabbage, red or green | 1 1/2 tablespoons water, stock, butter or olive oil | 10-11 mins |
It typically takes around 1-2 minutes per cup of sliced or shredded cabbage to cook in the microwave. To tell when the cabbage is cooked through, look for a shiny more vibrant color, and wilted but still slightly crunchy texture. You can also test it by taking a small bite; it should be tender but not mushy.
Is steaming a good way to cook cabbage?
Yes! and for several reasons. Steaming helps preserve the cabbage's nutritional value, including essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and folate. It maintains the cabbage's natural flavor and texture, ensuring it remains crisp yet tender. This low-calorie cooking approach is perfect for those conscious of their calorie intake. Steaming is also quick and convenient, taking just a few minutes to achieve the desired tenderness.
Can I cook different cabbages together?
Yes! red and green cabbage, as well as Napa, or savoy have very similar cooking times. As long as they are cut the same way, the cooking time should work for either kind. Keep in mind that cooking red cabbage with other types might turn the lighter color one pink or purplish.
Do I need to wash cabbage before cooking?
It is always recommended to wash cabbage throughly before cooking. It is easier to rinsed cabbage after it has been shredded, sliced or diced to ensure all hidden dirt can be removed.
