Lettuce Vs Cabbage: Surprising Ways In Which The Two Veggies Differ From Each Other

Most people think that cabbage and lettuce are alike, however, that is not the case. Cabbage and lettuce differ from one another on many levels. They both are very different in terms of taste, calorie content, nutritional content, etc.    

Cabbage 

Cabbage is a leafy green vegetable. It belongs to the family of Brassicaceae. The scientific name of cabbage is Brassica oleracea var. capitata. Cabbage is closely related to cauliflower and broccoli. Some of the common varieties of cabbage are red cabbage, green cabbage, savoy, and Chinese cabbage also known as napa cabbage. Cabbage can be prepared and consumed in a variety of ways. You can eat it either raw or steamed. Cabbage can also be sauteed, stewed, or pickled.  

Lettuce 

The scientific name of lettuce is Lactuca sativa. It is a member of the daisy family, Asteraceae. Lettuce is commonly used in salads, or you probably have seen it in your burgers, soups, wraps, and sandwiches. Although lettuce is grown for its leaves, one variety of lettuce is grown especially for its stem. The stem of celtuce, a variety of lettuce, is consumed cooked or even raw in many regions. Other varieties of lettuce include butterhead, iceberg, red leaf, and romaine lettuce. The latter one is the most common of them all.  

What is the difference between Cabbage and Lettuce? 

There are various factors in which lettuce and cabbage differ from one another. 

Let us go through each of them one by one. 

Physical Appearance- Green cabbage is often confused with iceberg lettuce, and yet cabbages and lettuce have distinct appearances. Cabbage is commonly round-shaped and has a short stem and rigid outer leaves which are closely wrapped around each other. On the other hand, lettuce consists more of oblong leaves, which are light and are easier to remove from its stem. Lettuce also has a higher concentration of chlorophyll, which gives it a bright color.  

Taste- Cabbage has an intense pepper-like taste, whereas lettuce consists of mild flavors. Its mild taste is the reason why it is commonly added to salads.  

Nutritional Value- Cabbage and lettuce are both rich in dietary fibers. They both consist of high amounts of antioxidants and also have the same amount of protein. Cabbage has vitamins such as Vitamin K and A and minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. On the other hand, cabbage contains, vitamin K and C and minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. 

Which is better Lettuce or Cabbage? 

Go for cabbage, if you want the option between the two. Green and red cabbages are the ones that consist higher amount of minerals, plant compounds, and vitamins. Red leaf and romaine lettuce are also great choices if you're looking for healthier options.