Easy Recipe: Braised Purple Cabbage

Braised purple cabbage delivers anthocyanin antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, and indole 3 carbinol for liver detox and hormone balance in a simple paleo side made with bone broth.

Cabbage doesn’t get much love. I’m here to convince you to not overlook poor cabbage next time you go to the market. Purple cabbage is especially beautiful, and look at the health benefits it offers:

• its rich purple-red color signifies a high concentration of anthocyanin polyphenols, plant-based antioxidants that protect against various diseases
• high in vitamins K & C
• the anthocyanins in purple cabbage are well-documented anti-inflammatory compounds
• a good source of indole 3-carbinol that helps break down excess estrogens. (read why too much estrogen is no bueno!)
• supports liver detox function
• may help lower cholesterol
• one cup has only 17 calories and almost 2 grams of fiber

Purple cabbage offers more antioxidant punch than its green sibling, but all cabbage possesses the above benefits. Cabbage is easy to prepare and delicious when roasted or braised. It ties together any meat dish really well, and purple cabbage is a beautiful side dish on any table. Here’s an easy recipe made with nourishing bone broth.

Braised Purple Cabbage (paleo, grain & dairy free)

You’ll need

1 head of purple cabbage (green will work too, but purple is slightly sweeter and higher in antioxidants)
Broth and/or wine or vinegar for braising (the acid softens it)
Extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Directions

• Chop the cabbage roughly. You’ll probably end up with quite a lot. I usually make about 1/2 a head at a time so my saute pan do not runneth over.
• Coat the bottom of a large saute pan with olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
• Add the cabbage. Isn’t it pretty?
  
• Add about 3/4 cup broth and a little white wine if you have it or vinegar and stir to coat. Add sea salt. Cover and reduce heat to low so everything is simmering. I always use mineral-rich bone broth to get the benefits of the broth along with the cabbage. I happened to have this one in the fridge, all nice and gelatinous, brimming with collagen and gelatin and ready to use.
  

• Let the cabbage soften, and braise for about 10 minutes, stirring after 5. Add more broth if needed to prevent sticking. Taste to check seasoning and add more sea salt if necessary. When it’s almost finished, remove the lid to reduce the liquid.
• It’s finished when it’s soft but not mushy, so be careful not to overcook it (though it’s pretty forgiving). I’m a purist with this dish, so I serve it with just cracked black pepper, but you could also add a little apple cider vinegar or balsamic for a kick.
• Serve. Isn’t it beautiful? Enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is purple cabbage considered healthier than green cabbage?

Purple cabbage contains higher levels of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that give it a deep color and help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. It also provides vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber while remaining low in calories, making it highly nutrient dense.

How does braising improve the taste and texture of cabbage?

Braising cooks cabbage slowly in broth or liquid, softening its fibers and reducing bitterness. The gentle heat preserves nutrients while developing a mild, slightly sweet flavor. This method keeps cabbage tender and flavorful without becoming watery or mushy.

What role does bone broth play in this cabbage recipe?

Bone broth adds minerals, collagen, and gelatin that support gut health, joints, and skin. It deepens flavor naturally while helping the cabbage cook evenly. Using broth increases nutrient density and turns a simple vegetable into a more nourishing side dish.

Can green cabbage be used instead of purple cabbage?

Yes, green cabbage works well and offers fiber, vitamin C, and detox supporting compounds. While purple cabbage contains more antioxidants, green cabbage braises easily and delivers similar digestive and liver support benefits when prepared properly.

How does cabbage support hormone and liver health?

Cabbage belongs to the cruciferous family and contains compounds that assist the body in breaking down excess estrogen. This supports hormone balance and healthy liver detox pathways, helping reduce inflammation and promote long term metabolic health.

Why does Mary Vance recommend cabbage as a regular side dish?

Mary Vance recommends cabbage because it is affordable, versatile, and rich in fiber and phytonutrients. It supports digestion, detoxification, and hormone balance while fitting paleo, grain free, and whole food approaches to everyday eating.

How does Mary Vance suggest avoiding overcooked cabbage?

Mary Vance advises cooking cabbage over low heat and monitoring texture closely. Braise just until tender, then remove the lid briefly to reduce excess liquid. This keeps the cabbage structured, flavorful, and nutrient rich without becoming overly soft.