Red cabbage

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About red cabbage
Wikipedia Article About Red Cabbage on Wikipedia

The Red Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra) is a sort of cabbage, also known as Red Kraut or Blue Kraut after preparation. Its leaves are coloured dark mauve. However, the plant changes its colour according to the pH value of the soil. On acidic soils, the leaves grow more reddish while an alkaline soil will produce rather blue coloured cabbages. This explains the fact that the very same plant is known by different colours in various regions. Furthermore, the preparation of the vegetable as a dish, especially during the addition of acid (vinegar) or alkaline (natron) has influence on its colour. In fact, this characteristic means red cabbage can be used as a homemade pH indicator.

Red Cabbage needs well fertilized soil and sufficient humidity to grow. It is a seasonal plant which is seeded in spring and harvested in late fall. Contrary to its white pendant, Red Cabbage can be stored easily and does not need to be conservered as Sauerkraut by fermentation with lactic acid.This is also used as an acidic solution tester.