Savoy cabbage: healthy and regional winter vegetable
Savoy cabbage, also known as Savoy King, Tundra, and Winter King, is just the thing for the cold winter months. It has a high concentration of vitamin C to strengthen the immune system and its low calorie content helps ward off unwanted winter flab.
Food for the poor?
Like red cabbage, broccoli and kohlrabi, Savoy cabbage belongs to the cruciferous family. Originally from the Mediterranean region, it has been grown in Switzerland since the 18th century. Thanks to various cultivation methods, it is also available almost all year round. The different varieties can be identified by their colour. Yellowish heads come from early harvests and deep green heads from late harvests. Decades ago, Savoy cabbage was seen as a cheap foodstuff, particularly affordable for poor families. Today, the cabbage has many uses and often features in high-end cuisine.
The cabbage thrives well in Switzerland and is easier to tend than other cruciferous vegetables.
Strengthens the immune system
Savoy cabbage packs a punch. A look at the substances it contains is enough to confirm this. With its low calorie content and high nutrient density, the cabbage is also an excellent source of fibre. In addition to its high concentration of various vitamins, bitter substances and antioxidants, Savoy cabbage also supplies the body with high-quality plant-based protein.
Rich in vitamin C
It is the high vitamin C content in particular that makes the vegetable an exciting, natural immune booster. 100g of Savoy cabbage provides about 50mg of vitamin C, which is almost half our daily requirement.
Facts about vitamin C
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Protects body cells from free radicals and intercepts them (antioxidant).
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Contributes to the formation and maintenance of connective tissue and bones.
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Ensures strong defences.
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Promotes iron absorption.
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Prevents the formation of cancer-promoting nitrosamines.
Fibre-rich vegetable
Savoy cabbage appears in countless diets and recipes for weight regulation. With its low calorie content but high satiety levels on account of the fibre, the vegetable is perfect for watching your figure through the winter. The fibre enhances the intestinal flora and ensures a constant blood sugar level, thereby reducing ravenous hunger attacks. The cabbage contains less than half a gram of fat per 100g. To fully enjoy the taste experience and promote the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins into the body, it can be combined with some high-quality oil, seeds or nuts.
Valuable secondary plant substances: glucosinolates
Glucosinolates are found in the vegetables of the cruciferous family. But of all the cruciferous vegetables, the highest content of these secondary plant substances is found in the Savoy cabbage. According to recent studies, glucosinolates have an antibiotic and antioxidant effect, which benefits the functioning of the immune system. Furthermore, intense research is being conducted on the cancer-inhibiting effect of these substances.
Storing Savoy cabbage correctly
Savoy cabbage will keep in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator for a good week. It shouldn't be stored next to ripening fruit such as apples. Before putting the cabbage in the refrigerator, check it for bugs. Freezing is a good way to keep the cabbage longer. To do this, take the cabbage at its freshest and remove the stalk, wash the individual leaves thoroughly and blanch briefly.
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