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Red Cabbage microgreens
Brassicaceae

Red Cabbage Shoots

Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra

Striking purple-red cotyledons that are color-stable on the plate — anthocyanin-rich, mildly sweet, and the chef's first choice for sashimi composition and appetizer plating.

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8–10
Days Seed to Harvest
Mild-Sweet
Flavor Profile
A+
Chef Suitability Rating
About This Variety

Red Cabbage Microgreens

Red Cabbage microgreens produce some of the most visually spectacular cotyledons in the microgreen world. The deep purple-red coloration comes from high concentrations of anthocyanin pigments that are remarkably color-stable — they hold their vivid hue even after light blanching, mild acidity, or extended plating times. Flavor is mild, slightly sweet, with the familiar brassica undertone of their mature form. These properties make red cabbage the preferred choice where visual impact and color stability are paramount.

Flavor
Mild, slightly sweet with gentle brassica undertone — approachable for all palates
Best For
Sashimi plating, tasting menus, composed appetizers, Asian bowls, tacos
Shelf Life
7–10 days post-harvest at 34–38°F
Texture
Tender, slightly waxy cotyledon with delicate thin stem — soft mouthfeel
Red Cabbage microgreens
Plant Biology

The Botany of Red Cabbage

Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra produces seeds that germinate uniformly within 2–3 days. The anthocyanin pigmentation is genetically determined and begins developing within the hypocotyl even during the blackout phase. Upon light exposure, the cotyledons develop their characteristic purple-red/violet coloration as anthocyanin synthesis accelerates in response to the light stimulus. The intensity of color can be modulated by growing temperature — cooler conditions produce more vivid pigmentation.

Taxonomy
FamilyBrassicaceae
Scientific NameBrassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra
Common NamesRed Cabbage, Brassica shoots
Stage HarvestedCotyledon / First leaf
Red Cabbage close up
Nutritional Profile

Why Chefs & Nutritionists Love It

Red Cabbage microgreens are among the highest anthocyanin-containing foods in the fresh produce category. These pigments are responsible for both the vivid coloration and the significant health properties.

Anthocyanins
The highest anthocyanin concentration of any common microgreen variety — 6× higher than in red cabbage mature leaves. Powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
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Vitamin C
Exceptional ascorbic acid levels — studies have confirmed red cabbage microgreens contain up to 6× more Vitamin C than the mature vegetable by weight.
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Glucosinolates
Rich in sinigrin and glucobrassicin — sulfur-containing compounds that activate to allyl isothiocyanate upon chewing, with documented anti-cancer properties.
Culinary Applications

On the Plate

Red Cabbage microgreens serve a dual role as both a nutritional powerhouse and an irreplaceable visual element. Their color-stable pigmentation is unique — most purple-colored foods fade or discolor quickly.

01
Sashimi Plating
A small nest of red cabbage microgreens provides a vivid color bed for white-fleshed fish sashimi. The contrast against halibut, sea bass, or white tuna is striking.
02
Composed Appetizer Plates
Used as a color anchor point on tasting menu amuse-bouches and composed starters where visual design is as important as flavor.
03
Asian Fusion Bowls
Pairs naturally with sesame, ginger, and soy in poke bowls and Korean-style grain dishes where both color and mild sweetness are welcome.
04
Tacos & Street Food
Used as a garnish on premium tacos — the mild sweetness and vivid color elevate fish tacos and shrimp preparations.
Red Cabbage on a plate
Red Cabbage microgreens plating
Production Data

Growing Specifications

Crop Data
Seed typeRed cabbage (ruby perfection or similar)
Soaking time4 hours (optional)
Blackout duration3 days
Light phase5–7 days
Harvest height1.5–2 inches
Seed density1 oz per 10×20 tray
Yield per tray5–7 oz fresh weight
Shelf life7–10 days refrigerated
Wholesale Packaging
Clamshell (retail)2 oz, 4 oz, 8 oz
Bulk vacuum bag1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb
Living tray10"×20" uncut
Custom labelAvailable on request
Min. weekly order5 lbs
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