I have always been a fan of cabbage, but I used to struggle with finding the most convenient and efficient way to cook it. Steaming seemed like the perfect option, but I didn’t want to spend too much time waiting for it to be ready. That’s when I discovered the quick and easy method of steaming cabbage in the microwave. Yes, you read that right – the microwave! This method not only saves time but also preserves the nutritional value of the cabbage. Let me share with you my step-by-step guide on how to steam cabbage in the microwave.
Gather your ingredients and equipment
Before you start steaming your cabbage, you’ll need to gather a few things first:
Ingredients:
Equipment:
Prepare the cabbage
Start by removing the outer leaves of the cabbage. These leaves are often tougher and might not cook as evenly. Once you have removed the outer leaves, cut the cabbage into quarters. Remove the core by making a diagonal cut on each quarter, and discard the core.
Place the cabbage in a microwave-safe bowl
Take your microwave-safe bowl and add around 1-2 inches of water to the bottom. This will create steam and help cook the cabbage. Place the cabbage quarters in the bowl, making sure they fit comfortably without overcrowding.
Cover the bowl and microwave
Now it’s time to cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Make sure the cover is tightly sealed to trap the steam inside. This will help the cabbage cook evenly and retain moisture.
Place the bowl in the microwave and set the cooking time for 8-10 minutes on high power. Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave, so keep an eye on the cabbage as it cooks.
Allow the cabbage to steam
Once the microwave finishes cooking, let the cabbage sit in the microwave for another 5 minutes. This allows for residual steam to continue cooking the cabbage and makes it easier to handle without burning yourself.
Season and serve
Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave, as it will be hot. Lift the lid or remove the plastic wrap, being mindful of the steam that will escape. Use tongs or a fork to transfer the steamed cabbage quarters to a serving dish.
At this point, you can season the cabbage with salt and pepper if desired. These simple seasonings can enhance the flavor of the cabbage without overpowering it. However, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices that you enjoy.
Tips for steaming cabbage in the microwave
Here are a few tips to ensure your cabbage steaming success:
Check for doneness using a fork:
After the initial cooking time, check the doneness of the cabbage using a fork. If the fork easily pierces through the cabbage, it is ready. If not, continue cooking in 1-2 minute increments until tender.
Try different types of cabbage:
Although this method is ideal for green cabbage, you can also experiment with red cabbage or savoy cabbage. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different types of cabbage may have varying densities.
Reuse the cabbage water:
The water you used to steam the cabbage might contain some of its nutrients. Instead of discarding it, consider using it as a base for soups or stews. This way, you can maximize the nutritional value of your meal.
Conclusion
Steaming cabbage in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. By following the steps I’ve outlined, you’ll have perfectly tender and flavorful cabbage in no time. So the next time you’re craving a healthy side dish or want to add more veggies to your meal, give this method a try. Your taste buds and your body will thank you!