A question about a recipe: Helen Getz’s Napa Cabbage with Hot Bacon Dressing

Question

I live in Europe (in London), and I'd love to make this recipe, as it sounds wonderful. However, I can't seem to find 'nappa cabbage' here- what would be a good replacement, do you think?

Jan W. · Answer

Look for "Chinese leaf" or "Chinese cabbage". It's also called "Hakusai" in Japanese.

Maedl · Answer

That would also be a good cabbage to use--do the Dutch have a version, too? It is one of the German passengers on the Slow Food Ark and its origins go back to the 1500s and Denkendorf Abbey, not too far from Stuttgart.

Droplet · Answer

You could also use the Dutch pointed cabbage. It has a very distinct pointed edge on one end and the leaves are less compact than traditional cabbage.

Maedl · Answer

Savoy cabbage would work well, but so would plain, everyday cabbage. If you use regular cabbage, slice it much more finely than that in  the recipe's photo. You could also use dandelion greens, escarole, frisee, or even romaine. My grandmother made a similar dressing that she used on lettuce as well as cabbage.

Rhonda35 · Answer

I think it's called "Chinese" cabbage in the UK, if I remember correctly. Baby bok choy would work, as would escarole.

Cassandra2011 · Answer

Many thanks, I can certainly get hold of Savoy cabbage here so will give it a go!

littleknitter · Answer

P.S.  Given the choice between cabbage and savoy cabbage, I'd go with the Savoy it you can get it.

littleknitter · Answer

You can probably use regular green cabbage or savoy cabbage instead - it'll take a little longer to cook, but is a pretty close substitute.

A question about a recipe: Helen Getz’s Napa Cabbage with Hot Bacon Dressing

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