Savoy Cabbage 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Savoy Cabbage: A Complete Guide

What is Savoy Cabbage

Savoy cabbage is a unique and delicious type of cabbage that stands out with its crinkly, textured leaves. Unlike the smooth leaves of green or red cabbage, Savoy cabbage has a wrinkled appearance that gives it a beautiful, rustic look. The leaves are tender and slightly sweet, making it a favorite in many dishes. It’s often used in salads, stir-fries, and soups, but you can also enjoy it raw or cooked. One cool thing about Savoy cabbage is that it can be a bit more forgiving in terms of cooking time; it tends to hold its shape and texture well without becoming mushy. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like vitamins C and K, which are great for your health. Whether you’re adding it to a hearty stew or using it to wrap around fillings, Savoy cabbage is versatile and adds a lovely touch to any meal.

Other Names of Savoy Cabbage

Here are some other names for Savoy cabbage that you might find interesting:

1. Savoy: This name is the most common one, and it comes from the region of Savoy in France where this cabbage was first cultivated. It’s a name that really highlights its origins and gives it a touch of elegance.
2. Curly Cabbage: Some people call it curly cabbage because of its crinkly, wrinkled leaves. This name gives a good visual of what the cabbage looks like, making it easier to recognize in the store or at a farmer’s market.
3. Winter Cabbage: Savoy cabbage is sometimes referred to as winter cabbage because it tends to be hardier than other varieties. It can withstand colder temperatures, making it a great vegetable to harvest in the fall and winter months.
4. Napa Cabbage: While Napa cabbage is technically a different type, it’s sometimes confused with Savoy cabbage due to its similar textures. Napa cabbage has a more elongated shape, but both are tender and sweet, making them versatile in cooking.
5. Savoy Cabbage Lettuce: In some culinary contexts, you might hear it called Savoy cabbage lettuce. This name emphasizes its use in salads and fresh dishes, highlighting its tenderness compared to other cabbages.

These names show just how versatile and loved Savoy cabbage is in the culinary world. Whether you’re cooking it or enjoying it raw, knowing its different names can help you identify it and appreciate its unique qualities even more.

Nutritional Value of Savoy Cabbage

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown of Savoy cabbage per 100 grams:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	27 kcal
Water	92 g
Protein	1.4 g
Carbohydrates	6 g
Dietary Fiber	3.1 g
Sugars	2.2 g
Fat	0.2 g
Vitamin C	34.8 mg (58% DV)
Vitamin K	24.3 µg (30% DV)
Folate	53 µg (13% DV)
Vitamin A	98 µg (10% DV)
Calcium	42 mg (4% DV)
Iron	0.5 mg (3% DV)
Potassium	250 mg (7% DV)
Manganese	0.2 mg (9% DV)

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as growing conditions and specific cultivars. It’s also worth noting that the percentage of daily values (% DV) is based on a daily intake of 2,000 calories, and individual nutritional needs may vary. Savoy cabbage is low in calories and a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Benefits of Savoy Cabbage

Here are some benefits of Savoy cabbage that you might find interesting:

1. Packed with Nutrients: Savoy cabbage is loaded with vitamins and minerals. It’s especially high in vitamin C, which helps support your immune system and keeps your skin healthy. It also contains vitamin K, important for bone health and proper blood clotting.
2. Low in Calories: If you’re watching your weight, Savoy cabbage is a great choice. It’s low in calories but high in fiber, which means you can eat a lot of it without worrying about adding extra calories to your diet. It helps you feel full, making it easier to stick to healthy eating habits.
3. Rich in Antioxidants: This cabbage variety contains antioxidants, which help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of chronic diseases, making Savoy cabbage a great addition to a balanced diet.
4. Supports Digestive Health: Savoy cabbage is a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps keep things moving in your gut and can prevent constipation. It also promotes the growth of good bacteria in your intestines.
5. Heart Health: Eating Savoy cabbage can be beneficial for your heart. It contains compounds that may help lower cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health. Plus, the fiber helps to keep your blood sugar levels stable, which is important for preventing heart disease.
6. Versatile in Cooking: Savoy cabbage can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups to stir-fries. Its tender leaves make it easy to cook and enjoy in many ways, adding flavor and nutrition to your meals.
7. Hydration: Since Savoy cabbage has a high water content, it can help keep you hydrated. Staying hydrated is important for overall health, and adding veggies like Savoy cabbage to your meals can contribute to your daily water intake.

These benefits show why Savoy cabbage is a great choice for a healthy diet. Whether you’re cooking it, adding it to salads, or enjoying it raw, incorporating Savoy cabbage into your meals can help you feel your best.

Varieties of Savoy Cabbage

Here are some popular varieties of Savoy cabbage that you might find interesting:

1. Winterbor: This variety is known for its tightly curled leaves and dark green color. It’s very hardy, making it perfect for growing in cooler weather. Winterbor has a crunchy texture and is often used in salads and stir-fries.
2. Savoy King: Savoy King is a classic variety that features large, wrinkled leaves and a sweet flavor. It’s great for cooking and can hold up well in soups and stews. This variety is also known for its ability to withstand frost, which helps enhance its sweetness.
3. Napa Savoy: While technically a different type of cabbage, Napa Savoy has some similarities to traditional Savoy cabbage. It has a more elongated shape and softer leaves. Napa Savoy is great for salads and wraps, as it has a mild taste and is easy to work with.
4. Filderkraut: This variety has a distinctive conical shape and loose, crinkly leaves. Filderkraut is often used in German cuisine and is known for its sweet flavor. It’s excellent for making sauerkraut or adding to hearty dishes.
5. Savoy Cabbage Smooth Leaf: This variety has a smoother leaf compared to traditional Savoy cabbage but still has the characteristic sweetness and tenderness. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the taste of Savoy but prefer a slightly different texture.
6. Red Savoy: Red Savoy is a colorful twist on the classic green variety. It has the same crinkly leaves but with a beautiful purplish-red hue. This variety is not only visually stunning but also offers a slightly earthier flavor, making it great for salads and garnishes.

These varieties of Savoy cabbage show just how versatile and interesting this vegetable can be. Each one has its own unique flavor and texture, making it fun to experiment with in the kitchen! Whether you’re using them in salads, soups, or stir-fries, Savoy cabbage adds a delicious touch to any dish.

What Does Savoy Cabbage Taste Like

Savoy cabbage has a unique and delightful taste that sets it apart from other cabbages. Its flavor is a bit sweeter and milder compared to the more common green or red cabbage. When you bite into a leaf, you’ll notice that it has a tender, crunchy texture that makes it enjoyable to eat raw or cooked. The crinkly leaves also hold onto dressings and sauces really well, which enhances the flavor even more. When cooked, Savoy cabbage becomes even sweeter and develops a rich, almost buttery taste. It can add depth to soups and stir-fries, making those dishes really satisfying. Overall, Savoy cabbage is versatile and can bring a refreshing taste to salads or a comforting flavor to cooked meals, making it a great addition to any dish.

How To Use Savoy Cabbage

Here are some great ways to use Savoy cabbage in your cooking:

1. Salads: Savoy cabbage is perfect for fresh salads because of its tender leaves. You can shred it and mix it with other veggies, nuts, and a tasty dressing. Its crunchy texture adds a nice bite, and its mild sweetness complements other flavors well.
2. Stir-Fries: This cabbage works wonderfully in stir-fries. Just slice it into thin strips and toss it into your favorite stir-fry mix. It cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the sauces you use, making it a delicious addition to any dish.
3. Soups and Stews: Savoy cabbage can add heartiness to soups and stews. You can chop it up and throw it in during the last few minutes of cooking. It wilts nicely and adds a touch of sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
4. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use Savoy cabbage leaves to make stuffed cabbage rolls. Blanch the leaves to soften them, then fill them with a mixture of meat, rice, and spices. Roll them up and bake them in a tomato sauce for a comforting meal.
5. Wraps: Use Savoy cabbage leaves as a healthy alternative to tortillas or bread for wraps. They’re great for holding fillings like grilled chicken, veggies, and sauces. Plus, they add a nice crunch and a bit of nutrition to your meal.
6. Sautéed or Stir-Fried: Simply sauté Savoy cabbage with a little olive oil, garlic, and salt for a quick side dish. You can also add some spices or other vegetables to make it even more flavorful. It cooks down quickly, and you can enjoy it as a delicious side.
7. Pickling: Savoy cabbage can also be pickled for a tangy twist. You can slice it thin and pickle it with vinegar, sugar, and spices. This makes a great topping for sandwiches or as a side dish.
8. Coleslaw: For a twist on traditional coleslaw, use shredded Savoy cabbage instead of regular cabbage. It has a softer texture that works well with creamy dressings or vinaigrettes, making it a great side dish for barbecues or picnics.

Using Savoy cabbage in these ways can really enhance your meals and introduce new flavors and textures to your cooking. It’s versatile and nutritious, making it a fantastic addition to your kitchen.

Substitute for Savoy Cabbage

If you don’t have Savoy cabbage on hand or can’t find it at the store, here are some great substitutes you can use:

1. Green Cabbage: This is the most common substitute for Savoy cabbage. Green cabbage has a similar texture and crunch, but it has a slightly stronger flavor. You can use it in salads, stir-fries, and soups, just like you would with Savoy.
2. Red Cabbage: Red cabbage can also work as a substitute. It has a similar crunchy texture, but it has a slightly earthier flavor and a beautiful color that can add visual appeal to your dishes. It’s great for salads, slaws, or cooked dishes.
3. Napa Cabbage: If you’re looking for a softer, more tender alternative, Napa cabbage is a good choice. It has a mild flavor and is great in salads or stir-fries. However, it’s a bit less crunchy than Savoy, so keep that in mind when cooking.
4. Collard Greens: While not a direct substitute, collard greens can work well in cooked dishes. They have a robust flavor and are packed with nutrients. You can chop them up and use them in soups or stews, similar to how you’d use Savoy cabbage.
5. Bok Choy: Bok choy is another good alternative, especially in stir-fries. It has a mild flavor and a crunchy texture, but the leaves are softer. You can use both the white stems and green leaves for a nice mix in your dish.
6. Swiss Chard: Swiss chard has a slightly earthy flavor, and its leaves can be used similarly to Savoy cabbage in cooked dishes. It cooks down nicely and adds a pop of color to your meals, thanks to its vibrant stems.
7. Kale: If you’re looking for something with a bit more bite, kale can be used in place of Savoy cabbage, especially in salads or sautéed dishes. Just keep in mind that kale has a stronger flavor, so it may change the overall taste of your dish.

These substitutes can help you create delicious meals even if you don’t have Savoy cabbage. Each option brings its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment and find the one that works best for your recipe.

Where to Buy Savoy Cabbage

If you’re looking to buy Savoy cabbage, here are some great places to check out:

1. Grocery Stores: Most larger grocery stores carry Savoy cabbage, especially in the produce section. Stores like Kroger, Safeway, or Publix usually have a variety of fresh vegetables, and Savoy cabbage is often available, especially during the cooler months when it’s in season.
2. Farmers’ Markets: Visiting a local farmers’ market is a fantastic way to find fresh Savoy cabbage. Many local farmers grow it and sell it directly to customers. Plus, you get to support local agriculture, and the cabbage is usually super fresh and tasty.
3. Specialty Produce Stores: Some grocery stores focus more on fresh and unique produce, and they often have Savoy cabbage in stock. Stores like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s might have it, and you can often find other interesting varieties of cabbage too.
4. Organic Stores: If you prefer organic produce, check out stores that specialize in organic foods. Many organic markets carry Savoy cabbage and other vegetables that are grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
5. Asian Markets: Since Savoy cabbage is popular in many Asian cuisines, you might find it at Asian grocery stores. These markets often have a wide variety of fresh vegetables, including different types of cabbage.
6. Online Grocery Delivery: If you prefer shopping from home, many online grocery services like Instacart or Amazon Fresh allow you to order Savoy cabbage and have it delivered right to your door. Just make sure to check if it’s available in your area.
7. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA): Joining a CSA is a great way to get fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farms. Many CSAs offer a variety of vegetables, and you might get Savoy cabbage as part of your weekly share.

These places are great options for finding Savoy cabbage. Whether you’re shopping in person or online, you’ll have a good chance of finding this delicious vegetable to enjoy in your meals.

How To Store Savoy Cabbage

Storing Savoy cabbage properly is important to keep it fresh and crunchy. Here are some detailed tips on how to store it:

1. Refrigerate Right Away

• Why It’s Important: The sooner you refrigerate Savoy cabbage after buying it, the longer it will stay fresh. Heat can cause the cabbage to wilt and spoil quickly.
• How to Do It: As soon as you get home, don’t leave the cabbage out on the counter. Place it directly in the fridge, ideally within a couple of hours of purchase.

2. Don’t Wash Until You’re Ready to Use

• Reasoning: Washing Savoy cabbage before storing it can introduce moisture, which leads to mold and decay. It’s better to keep it dry until you’re ready to prepare it.
• Tip: If it has dirt on the leaves, simply use a dry cloth or a soft brush to remove any dirt without rinsing it.

3. Wrap It Up

• How to Wrap: Use a damp paper towel to wrap the cabbage tightly. The dampness helps maintain a little humidity, preventing the leaves from drying out.
• Plastic Bag: Place the wrapped cabbage inside a perforated plastic bag. The holes allow some airflow while retaining moisture, which helps keep the cabbage fresh longer.
• Alternatives: If you don’t have perforated bags, you can use a regular plastic bag but ensure to leave it slightly open to allow for air circulation.

4. Use the Crisper Drawer

• What’s Special About the Crisper Drawer: The crisper drawer in your fridge is designed to maintain the right humidity levels for fruits and vegetables. It helps keep produce fresher for longer by balancing moisture and airflow.
• Tip: Place the wrapped cabbage in the crisper drawer as soon as you get it home to take advantage of these ideal conditions.

5. Keep it Whole

• Reason: Whole Savoy cabbage stays fresher longer than cut cabbage because cutting exposes the interior to air, which can accelerate spoilage.
• When to Cut: Only trim the leaves or cut the cabbage when you’re ready to cook or eat it. This way, you’ll preserve its freshness until you need it.

6. Check for Spoilage Regularly

• How to Inspect: Every few days, take the cabbage out and inspect it for any signs of spoilage, such as yellowing leaves or a slimy texture. If you see any bad leaves, remove them immediately to keep the rest of the cabbage from going bad.
• What to Look For: Check the leaves for any wilting, discoloration, or unusual odors. Fresh Savoy cabbage should smell earthy and slightly sweet.

7. Store for Up to Two Weeks

• Expected Lifespan: Properly stored Savoy cabbage can last about one to two weeks in the refrigerator. It’s best to use it within this time frame for optimal flavor and texture.
• Signs It’s Still Good: Fresh leaves should be firm, vibrant green, and crisp. If you find the leaves starting to lose their firmness, it’s best to use them soon.

8. Freezing for Longer Storage

• Why Freeze: Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of Savoy cabbage if you can’t use it within a couple of weeks.
• Blanching Process:
  • Wash and Trim: Start by washing the cabbage thoroughly and trimming away any damaged leaves.
  • Cut into Pieces: Cut the cabbage into wedges or shred it, depending on how you plan to use it later.
  • Blanch: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cabbage pieces and blanch them for about 3 minutes. This helps preserve color, flavor, and nutrients.
  • Ice Bath: After blanching, immediately transfer the cabbage to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Let it sit for a few minutes.
  • Drain: Once cooled, drain the cabbage well to remove excess water, as this helps prevent freezer burn.
• Freezing: Pack the blanched cabbage into airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bags with the date and type of cabbage.
• Storage Time: Frozen Savoy cabbage can last for about 8 to 12 months. When you’re ready to use it, you can add it directly to soups or stir-fries without thawing.

By following these detailed storage tips, you can ensure your Savoy cabbage stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Whether you’re using it in a salad, stir-fry, or soup, proper storage will help you get the most out of this tasty vegetable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)