The Amazing Benefits of Cabbage
Cabbage is renowned for its numerous health benefits, earning a spot on the World Health Organization's list of best vegetables. Often referred to as a natural "stomach-friendly" food, cabbage is rich in Vitamin K1 and Vitamin U, which aid in combating gastric ulcers, protecting and repairing stomach mucosal tissues, and keeping stomach cells active and healthy. This can significantly reduce the risk of gastric diseases.
Weight Management with Cabbage
For those looking to shed a few pounds, cabbage can be an excellent addition to your diet. With only 25 calories per 100 grams and low sugar content, cabbage helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels. This means that after consuming cabbage, you are less likely to feel hungry, supporting your weight loss goals.
Recommended Recipe: Cold Purple Cabbage Salad
Ingredients: 500 grams of purple cabbage, 200 grams of sugar, 100 grams of white vinegar, a splash of chili oil, sesame oil, a pinch of salt, and garlic.
Instructions:
- Shred the cabbage, and consider adding some green pepper for an extra kick.
- Soak the shredded cabbage in cold water to crisp it up.
- Prepare the dressing by mixing vinegar, chili oil, sesame oil, salt, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
- Toss the cabbage with the dressing until evenly coated.
Health Benefits: Cabbage is particularly recommended for individuals with weak digestive systems or gastric ulcers. Combining cabbage with honey daily may help promote ulcer healing.
Cooking Tips
Since cabbage is nearly fat-free, it is advisable to use olive oil when cooking. The unsaturated fats in olive oil can help your body better absorb the various fat-soluble vitamins present in the cabbage.
Spicy and Sour Cabbage Salad
Ingredients: 500 grams of cabbage, 1/2 carrot, 2 small cucumbers, 2 red peppers, a piece of young ginger, 3 garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon of Sichuan peppercorns.
Additional Ingredients:
- A: 3 tablespoons of salt
- B: 3 teaspoons of olive oil
- C: 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 6 tablespoons each of sugar and vinegar, with a pinch of salt.
Preparation:
- Slice the cabbage into thin strips. Julienne the carrot, slice the cucumber diagonally, and chop the pepper and ginger into thin pieces.
- Mix the cabbage, carrot, and cucumber with the salt for an hour, rinse off the excess salt, and squeeze out the water.
- In a heated pan, add olive oil and sauté the Sichuan peppercorns before removing them. Add the remaining ingredients to the mix from step 2 and allow to sit for about 1-2 hours before serving.
Incorporating cabbage into your meals not only enhances flavor but also brings a wealth of health benefits, making it a fantastic choice for various dishes. Enjoy the delightful taste of cabbage while reaping its nutritional advantages!