How to Cook White Cabbage for a Roast Dinner: A British Classic

White cabbage is nothing fancy but it is an integral part of a British roast dinner and a must-include where I come from. Braised, roasted or steamed, it gives a satisfying crunch, as well as a slightly sweet flavor that perfectly offsets rich meats — think roast beef, pork or lamb.

In this guide we will discuss the best ways to cook white cabbage, flavour variations, and how to make sure it’s the star of the show in your Sunday roast.

Why White Cabbage Belongs on Your Roast Dinner Plate

White cabbage (also known as green cabbage in the UK) is low-cost, healthy and extremely versatile. And, unlike red cabbage, it is more savoury in taste and absorbs quite a lot of flavour from butter, herbs and spices.

Nutritional Benefits of White Cabbage

Choosing and Preparing White Cabbage

Picking the Best Cabbage

• Look for firm, tightly packed heads with crisp leaves.

• Avoid yellowing or wilted outer leaves.

• Smaller cabbages (about 800g) tend to be sweeter.

How to Prep White Cabbage

1. Remove the core – Cut the cabbage into quarters and slice out the tough stem.

2. Shred for braising – Thinly slice for quick cooking.

3. Cut into wedges for roasting – Keep the root end intact to hold shape.

4. 
   

3 Best Ways to Cook White Cabbage for Roast Dinner

1. Buttery Braised White Cabbage (Stovetop Method)

A classic British side dish, braised cabbage is soft, buttery, and full of flavour.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 small white cabbage (about 800g), shredded

• 50g unsalted butter

• 1 onion, finely sliced

• 100ml vegetable stock

• 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)

• Salt & black pepper

Method

1. Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add onion and cook for 5 mins until soft.

3. Stir in cabbage, stock, and caraway seeds.

4. Cover and simmer for 15-20 mins until tender.

5. Season and serve with roast pork or chicken.

Tip: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra tang.

2. Roasted White Cabbage Wedges (Crispy & Caramelised)

Roasting brings out a nutty, slightly sweet flavour with crispy edges.

Ingredients

• 1 white cabbage, cut into 8 wedges

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard

• 1 tsp honey

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper

Method

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan).

2. Mix oil, mustard, honey, and paprika. Brush over cabbage.

3. Roast for 25-30 mins until golden and tender.

Perfect with: Roast beef or nut roast.

3. Creamy Steamed White Cabbage (Quick & Easy)

A lighter option with a silky texture.

Ingredients

• 1 white cabbage, shredded

• 50ml double cream

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• ½ tsp nutmeg

• Salt & white pepper

Method

1. Steam cabbage for 8-10 mins until just tender.

2. Stir in cream, mustard, and nutmeg.

3. Season and serve immediately.

4. 
   

Flavour Variations to Try

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Fridge: Cooked cabbage keeps for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a pan.

• Freeze: Blanched cabbage freezes well for 3 months.

• Meal prep: Shred raw cabbage and store in an airtight container for 5 days.

Perfect Pairings for Roast Dinner

White cabbage works brilliantly with:

• Roast meats: Pork, beef, chicken, or gammon.

• Vegetarian options: Mushroom Wellington or lentil roast.

• Classic sides: Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes, and honey-glazed carrots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overcooking – Turns mushy. Aim for tender but with a slight bite.
❌ Underseasoning – Cabbage needs salt to enhance flavour.
❌ Skipping fat – Butter or oil prevents dryness.

Final Thoughts

White cabbage is an economical, adaptable side that can hold its own on your roast dinner table. No matter how you make it, braised, roasted or steamed, cauliflower is simple and good for you.

Pro Tip: For a party-crazed variation, cheese out some savoy and cook it up with some crumbs!

FAQ’s

Can I prepare white cabbage in advance for a roast dinner?

Yes! Click for roasted or braised white cabbage White cabbage keeps in the fridge for approx 2-3 days. And reheat them gently in a pan or in the microwave, before serving.

How do I stop white cabbage from becoming soggy?

Do not overcook – steam or braise until tender ( 10-15 mins). For roasting, leave wedges whole and bake at 200°C until edges are crisp.

What’s the best way to add flavour to plain white cabbage?

Sauté it with butter, stock or bacon fat to deepen its flavor. Spices such as caraway seeds or mustard offer more flavor.

Can I freeze cooked white cabbage?

Sure, but blanch it first for the best texture. Cooked frozen cabbage will keep for 3 months — defrost and rewarm before serving.

What meat pairs best with white cabbage?

It is just perfect with Roast pork, gammon or beef. For vegetarians, nut roast or lentil Wellington would be great.