Ingredient substitution guide
Best substitutes for cabbage
Best swap for cabbage: Brussels sprouts, shred or quarter; similar flavor family, heartier.
How we checked this: these swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes, and their ratios follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than one published chart. For exact amounts on many common swaps, see the NDSU and Colorado State University extension tables listed below. Editorial policy
What can I use instead of Cabbage?
The best swap for Cabbage is Brussels Sprouts, shred or quarter; similar flavor family, heartier. Another option is Savoy Cabbage, 1:1; more tender leaves, same flavor. The table below also lists Napa Cabbage, Bok Choy and Collard Greens, 5 swaps in all.
| Swap | Ratio and notes |
|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts | shred or quarter; similar flavor family, heartier How to use it: Use the same weight. |
| Savoy cabbage | 1:1; more tender leaves, same flavor |
| Napa cabbage | 1:1; more tender and much wetter, so it wilts fast and needs less cooking |
| Bok choy | 1:1 by weight in stir-fries and braises; separate the stems from the leaves and start the stems first |
| Collard greens | 1:1 by weight for braises and slaws; sturdier leaves, so strip the thick ribs first |
Source and limits
These swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes to your kitchen, last updated . We remove swaps known to be unsafe, but not every swap has been tested in a kitchen, and a swap is cooking guidance, not an allergen or nutrition equivalent. Check labels and what the recipe needs before substituting.
The ratios and usage notes follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than a single published chart. These two university extension tables list exact amounts for many common swaps:
- Ingredient Substitutions (FN198), NDSU Extension (opens in a new tab)
- Ingredient Substitutions (9.329), Colorado State University Extension (opens in a new tab)
Browse every ingredient and read how these swaps are sourced.
Buying more? Storage times for cabbage