We often focus on regular cabbage, but its vibrant cousin, purple cabbage, is often overlooked. It has a slightly bitter taste, and after cooking, it can look dark and unappetizing, making many of us hesitant to give it a second chance.

But don't let appearances fool you! This affordable vegetable is packed with impressive nutritional benefits.

What Exactly Is Purple Cabbage?

Also known as red cabbage, purple cabbage belongs to the same family as regular cabbage but has a more striking color. It's rich in fiber, low in calories, and loaded with vitamins and minerals. Its high antioxidant content, especially anthocyanins, gives it that beautiful purple hue. What's more, the World Health Organization (WHO) ranks it as the third-best vegetable to include in our diet.

Top Nutritional Benefits of Purple Cabbage

1. Relieves Skin Itching and Redness

Purple cabbage is a good source of sulfur, which helps prevent skin infections and reduces itching. Eating it regularly may help reduce the risk of skin problems like eczema.

2. Promotes Better Digestion and Prevents Constipation

Purple cabbage is packed with fiber, which helps stimulate bowel movement and promotes regular digestion. It's especially helpful for preventing constipation by keeping waste moving through the intestines.

3. Fights Oxidative Stress

Darker-colored vegetables, like purple cabbage, are often loaded with antioxidants. Purple cabbage is no exception. It's rich in anthocyanins and vitamin C, which protect our cells from oxidative stress and help prevent chronic diseases.

4. Nourishes Skin and Enhances Beauty

Purple cabbage provides a variety of vitamins and minerals that promote skin health. It's particularly beneficial for pregnant women because it contains folic acid, which supports cell growth and keeps the skin looking youthful.

How to Maximize the Nutrition of Purple Cabbage

Eat It Raw for Maximum Benefits

Surprisingly, the best way to enjoy purple cabbage is raw! Like onions, purple cabbage retains most of its nutrients when eaten fresh. Cooking can destroy essential vitamins and minerals, and the vibrant color may also fade, making it look less appealing.

Simple Recipe: Purple Cabbage Salad

If you're wondering how to enjoy raw purple cabbage, here's an easy and delicious salad recipe:

1. Wash and Slice Thinly – Rinse the cabbage thoroughly and cut it into thin strips. Using a ceramic tool is ideal to prevent oxidation and keep the cabbage vibrant.

2. Salt and Soften – Place the sliced cabbage in a bowl, add a pinch of salt, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Drain the excess water to reduce bitterness and soften the texture.

3. Add Your Favorite Veggies – Mix in shredded carrots, lettuce, or sweet corn for extra crunch and sweetness.

4. Season to Perfection – Add a drizzle of olive oil, a dash of salt, and a bit of sugar for a balanced flavor. Toss well and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Enjoying Purple Cabbage

• Avoid Overcooking: If you do prefer to cook purple cabbage, use quick stir-frying or steaming methods to retain its vibrant color and nutrition.

• Pair with Healthy Lipids: Adding a bit of olive oil helps your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins more efficiently.

• Store Properly: Keep purple cabbage refrigerated and consume it within a few days to maintain freshness.

Time to Give Purple Cabbage a Chance!

Lykkers, if you haven't tried purple cabbage yet, now's the perfect time! Not only does it add a splash of color to our meals, but it also offers incredible health benefits. Let's make it a regular part of our diet and enjoy all the goodness it has to offer. Do you have a favorite way to prepare purple cabbage? Share your ideas with us!