Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into a world of flavorful dishes, all featuring the humble cabbage as the star of the show. Whether you’re looking for a classic coleslaw to accompany your favorite barbecue, or a hearty soup to warm up on a chilly evening, this versatile vegetable has got you covered.
From sweet and sour soups to spicy kimchi fried rice, and from traditional sauerkraut to innovative slaws and curries, the possibilities are endless when it comes to cabbage recipes. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, showcasing 20 mouthwatering dishes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of braised red cabbage, creating a delicious and comforting side dish perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or sweet varieties), peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cinnamon stick, nutmeg, or allspice for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the sliced cabbage and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften.
3. Add the chopped apples, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let braise for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Classic Homemade Coleslaw
This creamy coleslaw recipe is a timeless favorite that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, and sandwiches. Made with simple ingredients and a hint of vinegar, it’s a refreshing side dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None (as it’s a salad-style dish)
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef
A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly evening, these cabbage rolls are filled with savory ground beef and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head and blanch them in boiling water for 5-7 minutes until soft.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice.
6. To assemble the rolls, lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place 1/2 cup of the ground beef mixture onto the center of the leaf.
7. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to form a compact package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
8. Place the rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with this spicy kimchi twist! This Korean-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a warm, savory bowl of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until the vegetables are translucent.
3. Push the mixture to one side of the pan. Crack the egg into the other side and scramble it until cooked through.
4. Mix the egg with the vegetable mixture.
5. Add the kimchi and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, allowing its spicy flavor to meld with the rice.
6. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry until heated through, breaking up any clumps.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender cabbage, potatoes, and creamy goodness. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium cabbage, shredded
– 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick Pickled Cabbage Salad
In just a few minutes, you can transform plain cabbage into a tangy, crunchy, and refreshing salad perfect for topping sandwiches or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage for about 5 minutes to help break down the fibers.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, and caraway seeds (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pickling liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Pour the warm pickling liquid over the cabbage and toss to combine.
4. Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, stir in the chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (pickling liquid), 30 minutes (total prep time)
German-Style Sauerkraut with Sausages
Savor the rich flavors of Germany with this classic sauerkraut recipe, paired perfectly with plump sausages and crusty bread. This comforting dish is a staple of traditional German cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 juniper berries (optional)
– 4 smoked sausages (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine sauerkraut, caraway seeds, brown sugar, and salt.
2. Add juniper berries, if using.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauerkraut is tender and slightly caramelized (about 30 minutes).
4. Meanwhile, grill or pan-fry the sausage slices until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve the sausages atop the warm sauerkraut, accompanied by crusty bread and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Asian Stir-Fried Cabbage with Garlic
This quick and flavorful recipe combines the crispness of cabbage with the pungency of garlic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage head, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly wilted.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Season with soy sauce, black pepper, and salt (if using).
5. Stir-fry for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Healthy Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
This refreshing slaw recipe is a great side dish or topping for your favorite meals. With the crunch of cabbage, sweetness of carrots, and tanginess of dressing, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served chilled, so simply refrigerate until ready to serve.
Savory Cabbage and Bacon Stir-Fry
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of cabbage and the smoky flavor of bacon for a delicious and satisfying stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Add the olive oil, garlic, and cabbage to the same skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Add the cooked bacon back into the skillet and stir in the soy sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Cabbage and Chickpea Curry
This flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, crunchy cabbage, and creamy chickpeas. Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, shredded
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cabbage and chickpeas. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan: A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional cabbage recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of green cabbage, cored and cut into 8-10 wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cabbage wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the cabbage steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the cabbage steaks and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with a tangy kick from vinegar and spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year. With its unique flavor profile and tender texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped cabbage, chicken broth, water, sugar, vinegar, and caraway seeds. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crunchy Cabbage and Peanut Salad
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of cabbage with the nutty flavor of peanuts, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and chopped peanuts.
2. Add the thinly sliced red onion and toss to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and olive oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Polish Bigos (Hunter’s Stew)
Bigos, also known as Hunter’s Stew, is a hearty and flavorful Polish dish that originated from the country’s rural areas. This recipe combines various meats, sauerkraut, and beans in a rich broth, resulting in a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef sausage, sliced
– 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into cubes
– 1/2 lb smoked bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Add the sausage and pork; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the onion, garlic, sauerkraut, kidney beans, caraway seeds, and bay leaf. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage
Summary: Elevate your cabbage game with this simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Indian Cabbage Thoran (Stir-Fry)
Thoran, a popular South Indian stir-fry dish, is a flavorful and nutritious way to enjoy cabbage. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the savory flavors of spices and aromatics.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for another minute.
4. Add shredded cabbage, cumin, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp (about 8-10 minutes).
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Easy Cabbage and Noodle Stir-Fry
A quick and satisfying stir-fry that combines the crunch of cabbage with the comfort of noodles, all in under 20 minutes. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 8 oz noodles (such as soba or udon)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add cabbage; cook until wilted, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fermented Curtido (Latin American Slaw)
Curtido is a popular condiment in Latin American cuisine, adding a tangy and crunchy twist to tacos, grilled meats, and vegetables. This fermented version takes the classic recipe to the next level by introducing beneficial bacteria that enhance flavor and aid digestion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrot
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, mix lime juice, water, salt, and black pepper to create the brine.
3. Pour the brine over the slaw mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a jar or container with a wide mouth, pressing down on the solids to remove any air pockets.
5. Cover the jar with cheesecloth or a clean cloth, securing it with a rubber band.
6. Ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 3-5 days, shaking the jar daily to redistribute the mixture and prevent mold growth.
7. Once the slaw has reached your desired level of sourness and crunchiness, store it in the refrigerator to slow down fermentation.
Cooking Time: 3-5 days
Warm Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the natural sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the savory flavor of sausage, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to explore the versatility of cabbage with these 20 flavorful recipes! From classic coleslaw and sauerkraut to innovative stir-fries and curries, there’s something for every occasion. Enjoy the comfort of braised red cabbage with apples or indulge in spicy kimchi fried rice. Perfect your soup game with creamy cabbage and potato soup or whip up a quick pickled cabbage salad. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian, gluten-free, or simply delicious options, this collection has it all. Discover new flavors and cooking techniques to elevate your mealtime routine!
