To cook cabbage in a pot, you can follow these steps:
Prepare the cabbage: Start by removing any damaged or wilted outer leaves from the cabbage head. Rinse the cabbage under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Cut the cabbage head into quarters, and then cut out the core from each quarter.
Choose a pot: Select a pot that is large enough to accommodate the cabbage quarters comfortably. A pot with a tight-fitting lid is preferable to help retain heat and moisture during cooking.
Add water and seasonings: Fill the pot with enough water to cover the cabbage quarters. You can also add seasonings such as salt, pepper, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavor. The amount of seasoning will depend on your taste preferences.
Bring the water to a boil: Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring the water to a boil.
Add the cabbage: Once the water is boiling, carefully add the cabbage quarters to the pot. Make sure the cabbage is fully submerged in the water.
Reduce heat and simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low or low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with the lid.
Cook the cabbage: Let the cabbage simmer for about 8 to 12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the cabbage quarters.
Test for doneness: To check if the cabbage is cooked, insert a fork or a knife into the thickest part of a cabbage quarter. It should slide in easily without resistance.
Drain the cabbage: Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, carefully remove the pot from the heat. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, lift the cabbage quarters out of the pot and transfer them to a serving dish. Allow any excess water to drain off.
Serve and season: Serve the cooked cabbage hot. You can season it further with additional salt, pepper, butter, or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
Cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of cabbage, so it's important to monitor the tenderness as it cooks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve your preferred texture.