Why does putting a lid over boiling red cabbage help it keep its red color?

Question

Question 9 options:

A)

It minimizes overcooking that would reduce the color.

B)

It preserves the acids that help retain the color.

C)

It dilutes the acids that can wash the color out.

D)

It prevents the color from evaporating.

Answer 1

Putting a lid over boiling red cabbage helps it keep its red color primarily because:

B) It preserves the acids that help retain the color.

Red cabbage contains anthocyanins, which are pigments that can change color depending on the pH of the environment. When boiling, covering the pot helps to trap steam and maintain a more acidic environment, which can help preserve the vibrant red color of the cabbage.