Red Cabbage Microgreens 101
In today's quest for a healthier lifestyle, incorporating nutrient-dense foods into our diets has become increasingly important. One such powerhouse of nutrition is red cabbage microgreens. This is one of the most researched microgreens. These tiny greens are packed with an array of health benefits that can significantly enhance your well-being.
Red cabbage microgreens boast an impressive nutritional profile. Bursting with vitamins A, C, E, and K, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, they are a true superfood. Despite their small size, they offer an abundance of health-boosting properties, while remaining low in calories and carbohydrates. Join us as we explore the incredible potential of red cabbage microgreens and learn how to reap their numerous rewards.
Color and Taste
The color of the stalks are beautiful and rarely found in microgreens. Although it’s called Red Cabbage, it’s much more of a purple stalk. We see purples in other brassicas like radish, mustard and kohlrabi. For taste, if you like adult cabbage you’ll enjoy cabbage microgreens. The microgreens are a bit milder and can be sweet and crunchy, depending on variety and how you grow it (growing medium, lighting, fertilizers). They are mostly tender and flavorful.
Health Benefits of Red Cabbage Microgreens:
Similar to both radish and broccoli microgreens, red cabbage is also part of the Brassica family.
Cancer-fighting properties: Red cabbage microgreens contain potent compounds like glucosinolates, known for their anti-cancer effects. When glucosinolates break down, they form different compounds like sulforaphane, a potent activator of the Nrf2 pathway and isothiocyanates. These compounds have been shown to inhibit tumor growth and protect against certain types of cancer.
Anthocyanins: Anthocyanins give red cabbage its signature color, but they also lend it a lot of amazing nutritional benefits. Anthocyanins have antioxidant properties, which help the body fight oxidative stress and chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. These compounds have been associated with reducing cholesterol levels and improving overall cardiovascular health. Anthocyanins can also be found in other dark foods like blueberry, cocoa, and pomegranate.
Anti-inflammatory effects: The antioxidants present in red cabbage microgreens possess powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Regular consumption may help alleviate chronic inflammation, reducing the risk of various chronic diseases.
Digestive system support: With their high fiber content, red cabbage microgreens promote a healthy digestive system. They aid in regulating bowel movements, improving gut health, and preventing constipation.
Boosted immune system: Loaded with immune-boosting vitamins C and A, red cabbage microgreens can strengthen your body's defense mechanisms. They enhance immune responses, helping to ward off illnesses and infections.
Nutrition: Red cabbage microgreens are made up of 20-25% protein and are low in fat, calories and carbohydrates. Every portion is also rich in Vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with an array of B vitamins such as thiamin, niacin, and folate. Additionally, it contains essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, and is loaded with beneficial phytochemicals.
Do cabbage microgreens regrow?
No, most microgreens do not regrow. The only microgreen we’re aware of that does regrow is pea shoots, and it’s not often worth the effort of regrowing. For cabbage, and all other microgreens, because the leaves of the plants are cut off, it will not regrow. We recommend you compost the growing medium (soil, jute, hemp) and start a new batch.
Red cabbage microgreens are a treasure trove of health benefits that can significantly enhance your well-being. Their remarkable nutritional profile, combined with their potential cancer-fighting and cardiovascular health benefits make them the perfect add on to any meal. To learn more about other microgreens with amazing health benefits, check out sunflower and kale microgreens.