National Cabbage Day is celebrated on February 17 and we are here to give this humble vegetable a makeover. The use of cabbage dates back to 4000 B.C., with origins in Asia, specifically North China, and the Eastern Mediterranean region of Europe. Did you know that brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, kohlrabi, and kale are considered part of the cabbage family? Cabbage is a staple in European and Indian cuisine. The versatile cabbage brings a variety of flavors to the dinner table and can be prepared in many different ways such as pickled, sautéed, stewed, etc.
History of National Cabbage Day
Cabbage is more than just a side of coleslaw or an accompaniment to corned beef on St. Patrick’s Day. This delightful veggie deserves additional credit because it has much more to offer. Apart from being a very good source of fiber and vitamins, cabbage is a vegetable that offers value for money.
Although there isn’t much history on National Cabbage Day, apart from the day it was officiated, the history of the domestication of cabbage can be traced back to 4000 B.C. By the Middle Ages, it had become an integral part of European cuisine. During the 17th and 18th centuries, cabbage was a staple in many countries including Germany, England, Ireland, and Russia, where pickled cabbage was frequently consumed.
The cabbage made its debut in North America in 1541 with French explorer Jacques Cartier. By the 18th century, it was commonly planted by both colonists and Native Americans.
Today, the world production of cabbage and other species of the same family nears 69 million tons, with China accounting for 48% of the total. Although cabbage is a vegetable that is taken for granted, its production numbers affirm its popularity across the world and its nutritional value makes them an essential part of every kitchen.
Cabbage has been around for thousands of years coming in different varieties and flavors. Also, you can enjoy it in a range of ways. You can either eat it raw, steam it, boil it, bake it, braise, or fry it. You can even ferment it to enjoy it in the future.
National Cabbage Day timeline
This open-air market in Brno, Moravia, Czech Republic is named ‘cabbage.’
Jean Ruel, a French naturalist mentions `head cabbage’ in his formal piece of botanical writing, “De Natura Stirpium,” where he refers to it as ‘capucos coles’ (head-coles).
Swedish naturalist Carl Peter Thunberg reports that cabbage is not yet known in Japan.
On February 17, a Canadian newspaper “The Windsor Star” mentions World Cabbage Day.
National Cabbage Day FAQs
Does cabbage help to lose weight?
Cabbage is great for weight loss and beautiful skin. A cup of cooked cabbage has only 33 calories in it, and it is low in fat and high in fiber. Cabbage also helps the skin look healthy because it’s rich in antioxidants (including vitamin C and beta-carotene).
Can you eat cabbage late at night?
Vegetables and leafy greens are natural diuretics, which can result in you waking during the night to use the bathroom. Cabbage can also be difficult for the body to digest.
On what holiday do people eat cabbage?
St. Patrick’s Day is the biggest holiday for fresh, green cabbage consumption in the U.S., with New Year’s Day coming in second.
How to Celebrate National Cabbage Day
Prepare a cabbage dish
Spend this day preparing a meal where cabbage is the main ingredient. There are many cabbage dishes to try from soups to salads. If you’re feeling particularly inspired, why not look up how to make Lion’s Head meatballs, wedding cabbage, or kimchi?
Try some gardening
If you have a vegetable garden, you might want to try growing your own cabbage. You can pick from a variety of cabbages and plant the one that is easy to grow and that you feel you might enjoy the most.
Share the celebrations
Celebrate by sharing your delicious recipes with friends and family. You can also use the hashtag #NationalCabbageDay on your social media accounts to spread the word about this holiday.
5 Fun Facts About Cabbages
Cabbage as a luxury
In Rome, cabbage was considered a luxury food when compared with other vegetables.
Diogenes survived on cabbages
According to tales, Diogenes, the Greek philosopher, ate nothing but cabbage and drank nothing but water.
Cure for baldness
In ancient China, cabbage was sold as a magic cure for bald men.
Largest cabbage dish
To date, it was made on November 8, 2014, in the Romanian city of Kaufland weighing 6,525.68 lbs.
Cabbage was used to prevent hangovers
Cabbage was used in Ancient Rome and Egypt as food eaten before a night of drinking to help with tomorrow’s hangover.
Why We Love National Cabbage Day
Cabbages are readily available
Cabbage has been around for thousands of years and is part of many cultures around the world. Because they are so plentiful and offer value for money, they are accessible to a large part of the world’s population.
Cabbages are healthy
Cabbage is packed with nutrients and is a good source of vitamin C. Studies suggest that they also may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation. Because cabbage is rich in fiber, it may improve digestion and keep the heart healthy as well.
They are versatile
Cabbage comes in a variety of colors, textures, and shapes. Although cabbage can be eaten raw, it can also be prepared in different ways such as steaming, boiling, baking, frying, or pickling. Be it a side of coleslaw or yummy cabbage rolls, there is a dish for everyone to enjoy.
National Cabbage Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 17 | Monday |
| 2026 | February 17 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | February 17 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | February 17 | Thursday |
| 2029 | February 17 | Saturday |
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