18 Delicious Steamed Cabbage Recipes Healthy

Who knew humble cabbage could be so versatile and downright delicious? Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner, looking for seasonal favorites, or in need of some healthy comfort food, steamed cabbage is your go-to ingredient. Dive into our roundup of 18 Delicious Steamed Cabbage Recipes that promise to keep your meals exciting, nutritious, and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s get steaming!

Garlic Butter Steamed Cabbage

Transform humble cabbage into a buttery, garlicky side dish that steals the show with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add the 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Arrange the cabbage wedges in the skillet, cut side down. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
3. Pour in the 1/2 cup water, then cover the skillet. Steam the cabbage for 10 minutes, or until the wedges are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2 minutes to reduce any remaining liquid. Garnish with 1 tablespoon fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this recipe lies in the cabbage wedges soaking up all the garlic butter goodness, becoming irresistibly tender yet holding their shape for a beautiful presentation.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the water before steaming.

Asian Style Steamed Cabbage

Steamed cabbage gets an Asian twist with this simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a healthy side dish that pairs well with any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 small head of green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Arrange the cabbage wedges in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes until tender but still crisp.
2. While the cabbage steams, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and sugar in a small bowl.
3. Transfer the steamed cabbage to a serving plate and drizzle with the sauce. Garnish with green onion and sesame seeds.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, all while keeping the cabbage’s natural crunch intact.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce before drizzling.

Steamed Cabbage with Carrots and Peas

Steamed Cabbage with Carrots and Peas is a vibrant, nutrient-packed side that brings a splash of color and a crunch to any meal. It’s simplicity at its best, letting the natural sweetness of the vegetables shine through.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 medium carrots, julienned
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Place the sliced cabbage, julienned carrots, and frozen peas in a steamer basket. Lower the basket into the pot, cover, and steam for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Remove the steamer basket from the pot. Transfer the vegetables to a large bowl.
4. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and toss gently to combine.
5. Finish by drizzling 1 tablespoon lemon juice over the vegetables for a bright, fresh flavor.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the tender cabbage and the crisp carrots, with the peas adding a pop of sweetness. It’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast some sesame seeds and sprinkle them on top before serving.

Spicy Steamed Cabbage

Spicy Steamed Cabbage is a vibrant, flavor-packed side that turns humble cabbage into a standout dish with just a few pantry staples.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tbsp grated ginger to make the sauce.
2. Arrange the cabbage wedges in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
3. Transfer the steamed cabbage to a serving plate and drizzle with the prepared sauce. Garnish with 2 sliced green onions.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the crisp, steamed cabbage and the bold, spicy-sweet sauce that clings to every crevice.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a drizzle of chili oil before serving.

Steamed Cabbage with Bacon

Steamed cabbage gets a smoky upgrade with crispy bacon, making it a side dish that steals the show.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
2. Add the cabbage wedges to the skillet, cut side down. Cook for 3 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Flip the cabbage wedges, then add 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the skillet. Cover and steam for 10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Uncover and cook for an additional 2 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly. Sprinkle the reserved bacon over the cabbage before serving.

The combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors with the tender yet crisp cabbage makes this dish a standout. It’s a simple way to transform a humble vegetable into something special.

Tip: For extra flavor, try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

Lemon Pepper Steamed Cabbage

Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this Lemon Pepper Steamed Cabbage, a dish that’s as refreshing as it is simple to make.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring 2 inches of water to a boil over high heat. Place a steamer basket inside the pot.
2. Arrange the cabbage wedges in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 8 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
3. While the cabbage steams, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
4. Transfer the steamed cabbage to a serving platter and drizzle the lemon pepper dressing over the top. Serve immediately.

The zesty lemon and bold pepper dressing transforms humble cabbage into a vibrant side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the cabbage just before serving.

Steamed Cabbage with Soy Sauce

Steamed cabbage with soy sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural sweetness of cabbage, enhanced with a savory soy sauce glaze. It’s a quick, healthy side that pairs beautifully with any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 small head of green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Place a steamer basket in a large pot filled with 1 inch of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Arrange the cabbage wedges in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 5 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and minced garlic.
4. Transfer the steamed cabbage to a serving plate. Drizzle the soy sauce mixture over the cabbage.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the crisp, steamed cabbage and the rich, umami-packed soy sauce glaze, creating a balance that’s both refreshing and deeply satisfying.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling them over the dish.

Herbed Steamed Cabbage

Steaming cabbage with a blend of fresh herbs transforms this humble vegetable into a fragrant, tender side dish that pairs beautifully with any main course.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. In a large skillet with a lid, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cabbage wedges in a single layer, cooking for 2 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
2. Sprinkle the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper evenly over the cabbage. Pour the water into the skillet, then cover with the lid.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and steam the cabbage for 10 minutes, or until the wedges are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow any remaining water to evaporate.

The herbed steamed cabbage is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a dish with layers of flavor, thanks to the aromatic herbs that infuse the cabbage as it steams.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley before serving.

Steamed Cabbage with Ginger

Steamed Cabbage with Ginger is a light, flavorful side dish that brings a refreshing twist to your meal with its subtle spice and tender texture.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Place a steamer basket inside.
2. Arrange the cabbage wedges in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 8 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
3. While the cabbage steams, whisk together the grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
4. Transfer the steamed cabbage to a serving plate, drizzle with the ginger sauce, and sprinkle with green onions.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of the cabbage’s natural sweetness with the zingy ginger sauce, creating a side that’s anything but ordinary.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.

Steamed Cabbage and Apple

Steamed Cabbage and Apple is a subtly sweet and comforting side dish that brings a fresh twist to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large steamer basket over boiling water, layer the thinly sliced cabbage and apples. Cover and steam for 5 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
2. While the vegetables steam, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer the steamed cabbage and apples to a serving bowl. Drizzle with the butter mixture and toss gently to coat.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the soft, sweet apples and the crisp, slightly bitter cabbage, all brought together by a tangy butter sauce.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted walnuts before serving.

Steamed Cabbage with Mushrooms

Steamed Cabbage with Mushrooms is a light, flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of cabbage with the earthy tones of mushrooms, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
2. Add thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet along with soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Pour water into the skillet, cover with a lid, and reduce heat to low. Steam for 10 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until cabbage is tender but still crisp.
4. Remove lid and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow any excess water to evaporate.

The magic of this dish lies in the quick steaming process, which preserves the cabbage’s crunch while infusing it with the mushrooms’ umami richness.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle with a little grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Steamed Cabbage with Coconut Milk

Steamed cabbage gets a creamy, tropical twist with coconut milk in this simple yet flavorful side dish that’s sure to brighten up any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cabbage wedges and cook for 2 minutes on each side until slightly browned.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the cabbage.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the cabbage steam in the coconut milk mixture for 10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 2 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
5. Sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving.

The coconut milk creates a luscious sauce that clings to the cabbage, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It’s a standout side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the red pepper flakes in the oil before adding the cabbage.

Steamed Cabbage with Turmeric

Steamed cabbage with turmeric is a simple, vibrant side dish that brings a pop of color and a hint of warmth to any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cabbage wedges and cook for 2 minutes on each side until slightly browned.
2. Sprinkle the turmeric, salt, and black pepper evenly over the cabbage. Pour the water into the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to low.
3. Steam the cabbage for 10 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow any excess water to evaporate.

The turmeric not only gives the cabbage a beautiful golden hue but also infuses it with a subtle earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with its natural sweetness.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a little garlic powder over the cabbage before steaming.

Steamed Cabbage with Sesame Seeds

Steamed cabbage might sound simple, but when tossed with toasty sesame seeds, it transforms into a dish that’s both comforting and elegantly minimalist.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Place a steamer basket inside.
2. Arrange the cabbage wedges in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 8 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
3. While the cabbage steams, whisk together 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl.
4. Transfer the steamed cabbage to a serving plate, drizzle with the sesame sauce, and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the silky cabbage and the crunchy, nutty sesame seeds, making it a side that steals the show with simplicity.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, lightly crush the sesame seeds before sprinkling them over the cabbage.

Steamed Cabbage with Chili Flakes

Steamed cabbage gets a spicy kick with chili flakes, making it a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cabbage wedges and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, turning once, until lightly browned.
2. Add 2 tablespoons water to the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to low. Steam for 10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon chili flakes over the cabbage, toss gently to combine, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

The chili flakes add just the right amount of heat to the sweet, steamed cabbage, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Steamed Cabbage with Lime

Steamed cabbage with lime is a light, refreshing side dish that brings a zesty twist to your dinner table, perfect for those who love a hint of citrus with their greens.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, quartered
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Place the cabbage quarters in a steamer basket and lower into the pot. Cover and steam for 8 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
3. Remove the cabbage from the pot and transfer to a serving dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the unsalted butter, fresh lime juice, lime zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Drizzle the lime butter over the steamed cabbage and toss gently to coat.

The bright lime butter not only adds a vibrant flavor but also gives the cabbage a glossy, appealing look that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley on top before serving.

Steamed Cabbage with Honey Glaze

Steamed cabbage gets a sweet upgrade with this honey glaze, turning a simple side into something special.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your steamer over medium-high heat. Arrange the cabbage wedges in the steamer basket, making sure they’re not overlapping. Steam for 10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
2. While the cabbage steams, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
3. Once the cabbage is steamed, carefully transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle the honey glaze over the warm cabbage, using a spoon to coat each wedge evenly.
4. Serve immediately, garnishing with an extra drizzle of glaze if desired. The contrast of the crisp-tender cabbage with the sticky, sweet glaze makes this dish a standout side for any meal.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes over the glazed cabbage before serving.

Steamed Cabbage with Almonds

Steamed cabbage gets a delightful crunch and nutty flavor with the addition of toasted almonds, making it a simple yet elegant side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 small head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced cabbage, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the cabbage in the butter.
3. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Steam the cabbage for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender but still has a bit of crunch.
4. Remove the lid, stir in the lemon juice and toasted almonds, and cook for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

The toasted almonds add a wonderful texture contrast to the soft, buttery cabbage, while the lemon juice brightens up the dish beautifully.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring these 18 delicious and healthy steamed cabbage recipes! Each one offers a unique way to enjoy this versatile veggie, proving that healthy eating can be both simple and satisfying. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest to spread the cabbage love. Happy cooking!

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