Just Washing Won’t Remove Worms From Cauliflower And Cabbage, Do This Instead

Cauliflower and cabbage are versatile vegetables enjoyed in many dishes, especially during winter. Cauliflower parathas, for example, are a popular choice.

While these vegetables are rich in nutrients, they may also harbour worms and pesticides, which can pose health risks if not cleaned thoroughly. So if you also love to eat cauliflower and cabbage, here’s how to clean them properly.

Risks of Consuming Unclean Cauliflower and Cabbage

If cauliflower or cabbage is not cleaned correctly, it can lead to issues such as stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, or allergies. These vegetables grow close to the ground and may accumulate dust, germs, and pesticides. There have also been reports linking worms in cabbage to potential brain damage, making proper cleaning crucial.

How to Clean Cauliflower?
Always buy fresh cauliflower and avoid those with visible spots or signs of damage. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and spread them out to check for worms, which are usually light green and may be hard to spot. Fill a bowl with water, add salt and boil the florets in it for one or two minutes. This kills and removes worms while reducing pesticide residues.

You can also keep these florets in ice water for a minute, which also helps retain their texture during cooking. Once cleaned, you can store the cauliflower in a plastic bag in the fridge for later use. If you eat broccoli, then clean it in the same way before cooking.

How to Clean Cabbage?
To clean the cabbage, first remove and inspect the outer layers of the cabbage. Wash these layers thoroughly under running water. Now fill a bowl with water, add 1-2 teaspoons of white vinegar, and soak the chopped cabbage for two to three minutes. This helps eliminate germs, bacteria, and fungus. After soaking, rinse the cabbage thoroughly with fresh water. Ensure no insects or dirt remain stuck to the leaves.