If you have cabbage at home and are looking for a simple yet delicious way to use it, this recipe is perfect for you! It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and a great way to enjoy the health benefits of cabbage. This recipe will quickly become a favorite for you and your family.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated or thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes (400 g/14 oz) or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 100 g (3.5 oz) sausage or bacon, chopped (optional for non-vegetarian version)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Chop the cabbage:
- Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage if they are wilted. Cut the cabbage in half, remove the core, and chop the cabbage into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and drain:
- Rinse the chopped cabbage under cold water and drain it well.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Sauté the onion and garlic:
- In a large skillet or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and carrots:
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add bell pepper (if using):
- If you’re adding bell pepper, toss it in now and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
- Add the cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet or pot. Stir well to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
- Season and cook:
- Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Stir to coat the cabbage evenly with the spices.
- Add tomatoes:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) or add the fresh chopped tomatoes. Stir everything together.
- Cover and simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the cabbage cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Add Protein (Optional)
- Cook the sausage or bacon:
- If you’re adding sausage or bacon, cook it in a separate pan until browned and crispy.
- Combine with cabbage:
- Stir the cooked sausage or bacon into the cabbage mixture and cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish:
- Before serving, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve:
- Serve the cabbage hot, either as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.
Cook’s Notes
- Cabbage: Green cabbage is commonly used, but you can also try this recipe with red cabbage or Savoy cabbage for a different flavor and color.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage or bacon for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more variety.
- Spice It Up: For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sautéed vegetables.
Variations
Cabbage and Potato Stew
Add diced potatoes to the dish along with the cabbage for a hearty stew that’s perfect for colder days.
Cabbage Stir-Fry
Turn this into a quick stir-fry by cooking the cabbage over high heat with a splash of soy sauce and a bit of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist.
Cabbage Rolls Filling
Use this recipe as a filling for cabbage rolls. Simply wrap the mixture in large cabbage leaves, place them in a baking dish, and bake in the oven.
Cabbage and Bean Casserole
Mix in a can of drained and rinsed white beans or kidney beans for a protein-packed, vegetarian casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this cabbage dish can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What if I don’t have paprika?
You can substitute paprika with smoked paprika, ground cumin, or even curry powder for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as thyme, rosemary, or basil, feel free to use them in place of dried herbs.
This cabbage recipe is a versatile, flavorful dish that you can easily customize to your liking. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to bring comfort and satisfaction to your meals. Enjoy making and sharing this hearty dish with your loved ones!
