Steamed Purple Cauliflower
Quick answer
A medium portion of Steamed Purple Cauliflower (150 g) contains 38 kcal, with 3.9 g of net carbohydrates and 2.8 g of protein.
- Carbs7.5 g66%
- Protein2.8 g25.1%
- Fat0.4 g8.9%
- Fibre3.6 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
Purple cauliflower is not genetically modified: it is a natural variety originating in the Mediterranean and Sicily. Its purple colour comes from anthocyanins, the same antioxidant pigments found in blueberries and red grapes. It combines very low calories (25 kcal per 100g) with antioxidants and brings visual appeal that breaks the monotony of dieting. Anthocyanins are being studied for their possible role in supporting heart and blood vessel health.
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
You can eat it freely on Mediterranean, insulin-resistance and calorie-deficit diets, and it is perfect for a low-carb purple “cauliflower rice”.
Best preparation methods
Boiling it in plain water can turn it a dull grey. To keep the purple colour, steam it, or add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the water to keep it acidic.
Important Nutritional Note
Like the rest of the cabbage family, eat it cooked and in moderation if you have IBS-related bloating.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (150 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 25 kcal | 37.5 kcal |
| Protein | 1.9 g | 2.8 g |
| Carbohydrate | 5 g | 7.5 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 2.6 g | 3.9 g |
| Fat | 0.3 g | 0.4 g |
| Dietary fibre | 2.4 g | 3.6 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It has 25 kcal per 100 g, ranking 26 of 73 in Vegetables (lowest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is Steamed Purple Cauliflower good for weight loss?
Yes. Steamed Purple Cauliflower is very low in calories (25 kcal per 100 g), so you can eat a generous amount to add volume and fullness to a meal without many calories.
How does Steamed Purple Cauliflower affect blood sugar?
Steamed Purple Cauliflower contains only 2.6 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, so the glycemic index does not apply and its direct effect on blood sugar is minimal. The meal’s effect depends on what you eat with it, such as bread, rice or sweetened sauces.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of Steamed Purple Cauliflower?
A typical 150 g portion of Steamed Purple Cauliflower provides about 38 kcal, 2.8 g protein, 7.5 g carbohydrate, 0.4 g fat and 3.6 g fibre.
Is purple cauliflower different from white cauliflower for weight loss?
They are almost identical in calories and low starch, but the purple one stands out for its anthocyanins and higher antioxidant content.
Does purple cauliflower raise blood sugar?
Its effect on blood sugar is very small (the glycemic index does not apply), and it is one of the best vegetables for diabetes and keto as a replacement for rice and potatoes.
Does purple cauliflower taste different from white?
It is slightly sweeter, milder and less sulphurous than white cauliflower, with a light nutty flavour that children often like.
Read also
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index does not apply because this food has less than 5 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, and a GI test requires 25 to 50 g of available carbohydrate, per: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.