12 Seasonal Vegetables India Has This Season

5. Cabbage

Cabbage is a reliable winter vegetable that stores well and stretches a little budget further. It grows well in cool months and arrives in markets as firm heads that can last several weeks if kept whole and dry. Cabbage brings vitamin C, fibre, and a mild flavour that adapts easily—shred it raw into slaws, use it in vegetable rolls, sauté with mustard seeds for a simple sabzi, or make layered kohlrabi-free coleslaw for a fusion twist. When choosing, press the head; it should feel dense and heavy for its size with crisp outer leaves. Remove any loose or bruised leaves before storing, and keep the whole head wrapped in the crisper drawer to preserve moisture. Cabbage can be cooked quickly, so it’s a go-to for busy evenings: toss with spices and a splash of lemon or tamarind for a bright side that pairs with dal and rice. It’s also common in tiffins and lunchboxes because it reheats well without losing texture.