National Cabbage Day

National Cabbage Day is a culinary celebration observed on February 17. This day honors one of the world’s oldest and most versatile vegetables, which has served as a dietary staple for thousands of years. While the exact creator of the day is unknown, it serves as a timely reminder of the nutritional value and cultural importance of this leafy green just before it takes center stage during upcoming spring holidays.

History of National Cabbage Day

The history of cabbage itself dates back to at least 4000 BC, with its origins rooted in the Eastern Mediterranean and parts of Asia. Ancient Greeks and Romans prized the vegetable for its hardiness and medicinal properties. By the Middle Ages, cabbage had become an essential component of the European diet because it grew well in cool climates and could be stored throughout the winter months. French explorer Jacques Cartier is credited with bringing the first cabbage seeds to North America in 1541, planting them in what is now Canada.

The formal observance of National Cabbage Day on February 17 appears to be a more recent addition to the food holiday calendar. While newspapers began mentioning “World Cabbage Day” in the late 1990s, the date has since solidified as a day for home cooks and retailers to highlight the vegetable’s diverse varieties, such as Savoy, Red, and Napa. The holiday gained additional popularity recently through social media and community events like the “Cabbage Smash” tradition started by the Washington Nationals baseball team.

Why is National Cabbage Day important?

National Cabbage Day is important because it highlights a high-nutrient superfood that is often overshadowed by more trendy greens. Cabbage is a powerhouse of vitamins C and K, fiber, and potent antioxidants that support immune health and digestion. Because it is incredibly affordable and has a long shelf life, it plays a vital role in food security, providing a budget-friendly source of fresh produce for families regardless of the season.

The holiday also recognizes the deep cultural heritage embedded in cabbage-based dishes worldwide. From Korean kimchi and German sauerkraut to Irish colcannon and Eastern European cabbage rolls, this vegetable is a common thread that connects diverse global cuisines. Celebrating the day encourages the preservation of these traditional recipes and introduces new generations to the health benefits of cruciferous vegetables, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

• Cabbage contains high levels of vitamin C to support skin and immune health.
• It is one of the most cost-effective vegetables available in grocery stores.
• The vegetable belongs to the Brassica family, which includes broccoli and kale.
• Diverse cultural recipes like kimchi demonstrate ancient food preservation techniques.
• Regular consumption of cruciferous vegetables is linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.

How to Celebrate National Cabbage Day

Celebrating National Cabbage Day usually involves incorporating the vegetable into multiple meals throughout the day. You can start by making a fresh, crunchy coleslaw or exploring international flavors by preparing a spicy stir-fry with Napa cabbage. Many people use the day to begin a fermentation project, such as making a batch of homemade sauerkraut, which requires only salt and a bit of patience. Testing out a recipe for stuffed cabbage rolls is another popular way to mark the occasion with a hearty, traditional dinner.

For those with a garden, the holiday serves as a practical marker to start planning for the spring planting season. Researching which varieties, such as red or crinkle-leafed Savoy, grow best in your climate is a productive way to observe the day. Community groups sometimes host “weigh-offs” for giant cabbages or cooking contests where participants showcase the vegetable’s versatility in everything from soups to savory pancakes.

• Prepare a traditional dish of corned beef and cabbage for a midwinter feast.
• Shred red cabbage into a salad for a vibrant boost of color and antioxidants.
• Try making your own fermented kimchi or sauerkraut from scratch.
• Share your favorite cabbage-based recipes with friends on social media.
• Buy various cabbage you have never tried before, such as bok choy or kohlrabi.

National Cabbage Day Dates Table