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The surprising food trend for 2026 is the humble cabbage. Once relegated to boiled dinners or coleslaw, this healthy cruciferous vegetable is finally in the spotlight.
That’s because home cooks are beginning to see cabbage as a highly nutritious and affordable vegetable and are making it a kitchen staple, Fox News reported. “There's also a growing appreciation for vegetables that are budget-friendly, available year-round and incredibly versatile,” Erin Clarke, a Wisconsin-based cookbook author and founder of WellPlated, told Fox News.
But why now? According to Clarke, cabbage is gaining in popularity because home cooks have finally discovered what chefs have known for many years, that when cooked properly, the vegetable is delicious. It’s not just for salads anymore.
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Health Benefits of Cabbage
Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable like cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and kale. Cabbage comes in three varieties green, purple, or savoy and has a milder flavor than other cruciferous veggies. What they all share is a host of health benefits.
Supports Gut Health: Cabbage is good for your gut because it contains fiber, according to Vogue, and other plant compounds that can aid good gut bacteria. Fermented cabbage is rich in probiotics that aid gut health. Unfortunately, people with IBS and other conditions should eat cabbage in moderation.
Supports Heart Health: Along with fiber, cabbage also contains potassium which supports healthy cholesterol and lower blood pressure levels. The vegetable is also rich in vitamin K, which is necessary for blood clotting and antioxidants called anthocyanins which protect your body on a cellular level.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Cabbage is rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients that could help reduce inflammation in your body.
Could Boost Your Immune System: The humble cabbage can help boost your immune system through sulfur-containing compounds, Vitamin C, and antioxidants that can help combat cell oxidation.
How to Cook Cabbage
Cabbage can be eaten raw, pickled or cooked. Boiling is out, sautéing, frying, roasting, or steaming is in. Cabbage can also be a main dish. Americans are just catching on to its versatility.
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“We are seeing a growing trend of chefs utilizing it as a centerpiece, such as cabbage steaks, rather than as a side dish. The culinary appeal has never been stronger,” Woldy Reyes, chef and cookbook author, told Vogue.
So, whether you shred it and use it in salads, in kimchi, or roasting slices or wedges, cabbage can be used in a variety of ways. This is a foodie trend that could stick around for a long time.
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