Napa Cabbage
Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensisClinical Encyclopedia
Napa Cabbage provides 16 kcal, 1.5g of protein, 3.2g of carbohydrates, and 1.2g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.
Napa cabbage, also known as Chinese cabbage, is a leafy vegetable with a mild flavor and crisp texture, commonly used in Asian cuisine. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to various dishes.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Best enjoyed raw in salads or lightly cooked in stir-fries to preserve its nutrients. Wash thoroughly before consumption.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose napa cabbage with crisp, firm leaves and a vibrant color. Avoid any with yellowing or wilting.
Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to keep it fresh and maintain moisture.
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Napa Cabbage and Quinoa Salad
A refreshing salad combining crunchy Napa cabbage with protein-packed quinoa, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
- 2 cups chopped Napa cabbage
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, mix together the chopped Napa cabbage, cooked quinoa, diced cucumbers, and parsley.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine before serving.
Spicy Napa Cabbage Stir-Fry
A quick and spicy stir-fry featuring Napa cabbage, bell peppers, and tofu, packed with flavor and nutrients.
- 4 cups shredded Napa cabbage
- 1 cup diced tofu
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- 2. Add the diced tofu and cook until golden brown, then add the sliced bell pepper and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
- 3. Stir in the Napa cabbage, soy sauce, and sriracha, cooking until the cabbage is tender. Serve hot.
Napa Cabbage Soup with Ginger
A warming soup with Napa cabbage, ginger, and mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner.
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups chopped Napa cabbage
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and add the ginger and mushrooms.
- 2. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, then add the Napa cabbage and cook until tender.
- 3. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with green onions, and serve warm.
Napa Cabbage Kimchi
A traditional fermented dish made with Napa cabbage, perfect as a side or condiment for added probiotics.
- 1 head Napa cabbage, quartered
- 1/4 cup sea salt
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons Korean red pepper flakes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1. Sprinkle salt over the Napa cabbage and let it sit for 2 hours, turning occasionally.
- 2. Rinse the cabbage and mix with fish sauce, sugar, pepper flakes, garlic, and ginger.
- 3. Pack the mixture into a jar, leaving some space for fermentation, and let it sit at room temperature for 2-3 days before refrigerating.
Napa Cabbage Wraps with Hummus
Light and healthy wraps using Napa cabbage leaves filled with hummus and fresh veggies, perfect for a snack or appetizer.
- 8 large Napa cabbage leaves
- 1 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped cucumbers
- 1. Lay a Napa cabbage leaf flat and spread a generous amount of hummus on it.
- 2. Top with shredded carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers.
- 3. Roll the leaf tightly, slice in half, and serve as a fresh wrap.
Napa Cabbage and Chicken Stir-Fry
A protein-rich stir-fry featuring Napa cabbage and chicken, seasoned with garlic and ginger for a delicious meal.
- 2 cups shredded Napa cabbage
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet and add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- 2. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned, then add the Napa cabbage and soy sauce.
- 3. Stir-fry until the cabbage is tender and serve hot.
Napa Cabbage Slaw with Apple and Carrot
A crunchy slaw made with Napa cabbage, apple, and carrot, dressed in a light vinaigrette for a healthy side dish.
- 2 cups shredded Napa cabbage
- 1 grated apple
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the Napa cabbage, grated apple, and grated carrot.
- 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the slaw, toss well, and serve chilled.
Napa Cabbage and Lentil Stew
A hearty stew with Napa cabbage, lentils, and spices, perfect for a filling and nutritious meal.
- 1 cup lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups chopped Napa cabbage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1. In a pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
- 2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and cumin, and bring to a boil.
- 3. Reduce heat, add the Napa cabbage, and simmer until lentils are tender. Serve warm.
Napa Cabbage Tacos with Avocado
Healthy tacos using Napa cabbage leaves as shells, filled with spiced beans and topped with avocado.
- 8 large Napa cabbage leaves
- 1 can black beans, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- Lime wedges for serving
- 1. In a pan, heat the black beans with cumin until warmed through.
- 2. Spoon the beans into the Napa cabbage leaves, top with avocado and diced tomatoes.
- 3. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the tacos.
Napa Cabbage and Shrimp Salad
A light and zesty salad featuring Napa cabbage, shrimp, and a citrus dressing, ideal for a refreshing meal.
- 2 cups chopped Napa cabbage
- 1 pound shrimp, cooked and peeled
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the Napa cabbage, cooked shrimp, and diced red onion.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is napa cabbage used for?
Napa cabbage is commonly used in salads, stir-fries, and as a filling for dumplings.
How do you store napa cabbage?
Store napa cabbage in the refrigerator, wrapped in a plastic bag to maintain moisture.
Is napa cabbage healthy?
Yes, napa cabbage is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice.
Can you eat napa cabbage raw?
Absolutely! Napa cabbage can be eaten raw in salads or slaws.
How long does napa cabbage last?
When stored properly in the fridge, napa cabbage can last up to a week.
What are the nutritional benefits of napa cabbage?
Napa cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.
Can napa cabbage be frozen?
Yes, napa cabbage can be blanched and frozen for later use, although it may lose some texture.
What is the difference between napa cabbage and regular cabbage?
Napa cabbage has a milder flavor and a more tender texture compared to regular green cabbage.