Stewed Cabbage is a comforting, simple dish that’s flavorful and full of nutrients. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a main course when paired with some protein. The cabbage gets tender and infused with savory flavors, making it a hearty and satisfying dish.
Here’s a basic recipe for Stewed Cabbage:
Stewed Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded or chopped (you can use green or purple cabbage)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for a bit of tang, optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance the flavors)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Shred or chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
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Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- If using, add the caraway seeds, paprika, and red pepper flakes, and sauté for another minute to release the flavors.
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Add the Cabbage:
- Add the shredded cabbage to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften and shrink down.
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Stew the Cabbage:
- Pour in the broth (or water) and stir everything together. Bring it to a simmer.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the cabbage stew for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is very tender and the flavors are well combined.
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Season and Finish:
- Once the cabbage is tender, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar (if using). You can also add a bit of sugar to balance the acidity and bitterness of the cabbage.
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Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a burst of color.
Tips:
- Add Protein: You can easily turn this into a complete meal by adding bacon, sausage, or ham for some extra protein and flavor.
- Slow Cooker Option: You can also make stewed cabbage in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours until tender.
- Flavor Variations: For a different flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce, a few tablespoons of tomato paste, or even a bit of mustard to the stew for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this Stewed Cabbage as a side dish to roasted meats, such as pork, chicken, or beef.
- It’s also great with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
This stewed cabbage is flavorful, comforting, and versatile. It can be enjoyed year-round and is an easy way to make cabbage a delicious part of your meals. Would you be adding anything extra to your stewed cabbage or maybe making any modifications