Cabbage is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from crunchy slaws to comforting stews. But before you can transform it into a delicious meal, knowing how to properly cut and prepare cabbage is essential. Here are some expert tips to help you handle cabbage like a pro.

1. Selecting and Cleaning Cabbage: Choose a cabbage that feels heavy for its size with tightly packed leaves, ensuring it is fresh. Remove the loose outer leaves, and give it a good rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Cutting the Cabbage:

• Remove the Core: Place the cabbage on a cutting board with the stem facing down. Cut the cabbage into quarters through the core. Once quartered, make a diagonal cut on each piece to remove the thick, hard core at the base.

• Slicing: For shredded cabbage, place each quarter flat-side down and slice it thinly using a sharp knife. For safety, tuck your fingers away from the blade as you slice.

• Chopping: If you need chopped cabbage for a stew or stir-fry, cut the shredded slices into smaller pieces as desired.

3. Storing Cut Cabbage: If you’re not using all the cabbage right away, wrap the remaining quarters tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they should stay fresh for up to a week.

4. Cooking Tips: Cabbage can be eaten raw, sautéed, steamed, or braised. Its natural sweetness comes out beautifully when sautéed slowly until it caramelizes.

By mastering these simple steps, you’ll be able to prepare cabbage efficiently and safely, making it easier to include this healthy vegetable in your meals. Whether you’re tossing it into a salad or cooking it down for a hearty dish, properly prepared cabbage is a treat for any table.