Shredded savoy cabbage takes 3-5 minutes to boil, 5-7 minutes to steam and 5-8 minutes to stir fry. Cut the cabbage into quarters, cut out the core, shred it 1cm thick and cook it briefly - savoy is at its best when it still has bite and its deep green colour.
Last updated: 30 June 2024
Cooking times at a glance
| Method | Preparation | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boil | Shredded 1cm | 3-5 min | Salted water, uncovered |
| Steam | Shredded | 5-7 min | Best colour and flavour |
| Stir fry / buttered cabbage | Shredded | 5-8 min | Plant butter, garlic, splash of water, lid on for 2 min |
| Roast | Wedges, oiled | 20-25 min at 200C | Crisp edges, good with mustard dressing |
| Microwave | Shredded, 2 tbsp water, covered | 4-5 min | Stir halfway |
| Braise | Shredded | 15-20 min | With stock, leeks and thyme |
Tips that make a difference
- Keep the dark outer leaves - they carry most of the flavour and colour. Discard only damaged ones.
- Cut out the thick core; it stays tough long after the leaves are done.
- Savoy holds its texture better than white cabbage, which is why it is the one to use for roast dinners and colcannon.
- Plant butter, garlic and a scatter of toasted flaked almonds turns it from a side into something people go back for.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you boil savoy cabbage?
Three to five minutes for 1cm shreds. Wedges take eight to ten.
Should you cover cabbage while cooking?
Not while boiling - leaving it uncovered keeps the colour bright. Cover it while braising or steaming.
How do you stop cabbage smelling?
Cook it briefly. The sulphur smell comes from overcooking, so keep it under five minutes and leave the lid off.
Is savoy cabbage healthy?
Yes - it is very low in calories and high in fibre, vitamin C and vitamin K.
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