Varaždinsko zelje

Varaždinsko zelje is an autochthonous variety of cabbage traditionally grown in Varaždin County. The most important property of this cabbage variety is that it can withstand winter cold very well, but it can also be grown as a spring cabbage. The heads of the cabbage are flat, light olive green, and when it is ready for harvest the leaves usually begin to curl upward.

It has a bitter and sharp flavor and pungent smell. Because its leaves are durable and elastic, it is traditionally used in recipes that require longer cooking time, such as cabbage soup or braised cabbage with bacon or beef.