Cabbage Recipes: Versatile Dishes with Cabbage

Ever found yourself staring at a head of cabbage and wondering what in the world to do with it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Cabbage might seem like a boring veggie at first glance, but trust me, it’s a real game-changer in the kitchen. Lets dive into some fab recipes and see how versatile this humble vegetable can be.

Why Cabbage Deserves More Love

First things first, cabbage is super affordable, available year-round, and packed with nutrients. It’s got loads of Vitamin C, K, and even some fiber to keep things moving (if ya know what I mean). Plus, its low in calories, so its a win-win!

Classic Coleslaw

Alright, lets kick things off with a classic: coleslaw. Its the perfect side for BBQs, sandwiches, or just as a crunchy snack.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 head of green cabbage, shredded
  • 1/2 head of purple cabbage, shredded (for color, ya know?)
  • 2 large carrots, grated
  • 1 cup mayo
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Mix the cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss to combine.
  4. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. Boom! Done!

Savory Cabbage Soup

Next up, weve got a cozy cabbage soup thatll warm you right up. Perfect for those chilly nights.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken or veggie broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. In a large pot, saut the onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute (careful, it burns fast!).
  3. Throw in the cabbage, tomatoes, and broth.
  4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
  6. Serve with some crusty bread. Yum!

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Now, if you wanna get a bit fancy, how about some stuffed cabbage rolls? These bad boys are a bit more work, but sooo worth it.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 head of cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 1 can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
  2. Boil a large pot of water. Carefully peel off the cabbage leaves and blanch them in the boiling water until soft.
  3. Mix the ground meat, rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  4. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides.
  5. Place the rolls in a baking dish, seam side down.
  6. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls, cover with foil, and bake for about 1 hour.
  7. Let ’em cool for a bit before serving. Enjoy!

Stir-Fried Cabbage

If you’re in the mood for something quick and easy, try this stir-fried cabbage. Its a great side dish or can even stand alone as a light meal.

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 head of cabbage, sliced thin
  • 1 tablespoon oil (sesame oil is my fave!)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the cabbage and carrot, stirring frequently.
  4. Add the soy sauce and cook until the cabbage is tender but still a bit crisp.
  5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Done and dusted!

Southern Fried Cabbage

Alright, y’all, if you haven’t tried southern fried cabbage, you’re missing out. Its a delicious, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with just about anything.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 head of cabbage, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 5 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, but leave the drippings.
  2. Add the onion to the skillet and cook until soft.
  3. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Throw in the cabbage, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cabbage is tender.
  5. Mix in the cooked bacon. Serve hot and enjoy the southern goodness!

Fermented Sauerkraut

Feeling adventurous? Why not make your own fermented sauerkraut? Its tangy, crunchy, and oh-so-good for your gut!

• Ingredients:
  • 1 head of cabbage, shredded
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt.
  2. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 10 minutes until it releases its juices.
  3. Add the caraway seeds, if using.
  4. Pack the cabbage tightly into a clean jar, pressing down to submerge it in its own liquid.
  5. Cover the jar with a cloth and secure it with a rubber band. Let it ferment at room temperature for 1-4 weeks, checking daily to ensure the cabbage stays submerged.
  6. Taste periodically until it reaches your desired level of tanginess. Then, pop it in the fridge and enjoy!

Spicy Korean Kimchi

Last but not least, let’s get a little international with Korean kimchi. Its spicy, funky, and absolutely addicting

!

• Ingredients:
  • 1 head napa cabbage, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup salt
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 thumb-sized piece ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Korean red chili pepper flakes (gochugaru)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 4 green onions, chopped
  • 1 carrot, julienned
• Instructions:
  1. Place the cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Toss to combine and let it sit for 1-2 hours, turning occasionally.
  2. Rinse the cabbage under cold water and drain well.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the garlic, ginger, fish sauce, chili flakes, and sugar to make a paste.
  4. Add the green onions and carrot to the cabbage. Pour the paste over the veggies and mix thoroughly, ensuring everything is well coated.
  5. Pack the kimchi into a jar, pressing down to eliminate air pockets.
  6. Let it ferment at room temperature for 1-5 days. Taste daily and once its to your liking, store it in the fridge.

Wrapping It Up

So there ya have it, folks! From classic coleslaw to spicy kimchi, cabbage is one versatile veggie that deserves a spot in your kitchen. Give these recipes a go and let me know which ones your fave. Happy cooking!

If youve got any other cool cabbage recipes, drop ’em in the comments. And don’t forget to share this with your friends who might need some cabbage inspiration!

Until next time, keep cookin’ and experimentin’ in the kitchen. Peace out!