Comforting Cabbage Recipes: Soul Food Delights to Warm Your Heart and Belly
There’s something special about a warm, comforting bowl of cabbage on a chilly day. Whether it’s slow-cooked with bacon, smothered in butter and onions, or braised with ham hocks, cabbage has the power to bring people together. And when you combine it with soulful ingredients like smoked turkey, sausage, and cornbread, you’ve got yourself a true Southern comfort food feast.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering cabbage recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From classic dishes like slow-cooked southern fried cabbage with bacon to innovative twists like spicy collard greens and cabbage medley, there’s something for everyone in this comforting culinary collection.
Slow-Cooked Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
A classic Southern comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a side to your favorite BBQ dishes. This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized onions and apples with the smoky richness of bacon, all wrapped up in tender, slow-cooked cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Classic Soul Food Cabbage and Smoked Turkey
This hearty dish is a staple of soul food cuisine, combining tender cabbage with rich, smoky turkey to create a flavorful and comforting meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Stir in diced smoked turkey, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Braised Cabbage with Ham Hocks
This hearty recipe combines tender cabbage with rich ham hocks, creating a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously caramelized and savory result.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 ham hocks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
4. Place the ham hocks on top of the cabbage mixture and cover the skillet with a lid.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and braise for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the ham hocks are falling apart.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Cabbage and Sausage Stir-Fry
This hearty and flavorful stir-fry combines the sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the savory goodness of sausage, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 4 Italian sausage links, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage to the pan and cook until it starts to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Pour the mixture over the cabbage and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Return the sausage to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern-Style Cabbage with Cornbread on the Side
This classic Southern recipe combines tender cabbage, savory aromatics, and a hint of sweetness, perfectly paired with a crumbly cornbread crust. A comforting and flavorful side dish that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, caraway seeds, and cabbage to the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender.
3. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions or make homemade cornbread using a recipe of your choice.
4. Serve cabbage hot alongside warm cornbread.
Cooking Time:
– Cabbage: 10-12 minutes
– Cornbread: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Collard Greens and Cabbage Medley
This vibrant medley of collard greens and cabbage is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the added kick of garlic and red pepper flakes, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the collard greens and cabbage, stirring to combine.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the greens are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Stir in the red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smothered Cabbage with Onions and Bell Peppers
This hearty side dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods, like roasted meats or crispy fried chicken. Simply sauté sliced onions and bell peppers in butter until tender, then add shredded cabbage and let it simmer until the flavors meld together.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion and bell pepper mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings (like garlic powder or paprika).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grandma’s Buttery Cabbage and Potatoes
A comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or everyday meals. This classic recipe combines tender cabbage, creamy potatoes, and a hint of buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or chopped fresh parsley for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes and set aside.
4. In the same pot, add the shredded cabbage and butter. Cook over medium heat until the cabbage is wilted and the butter has melted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the cooked potatoes to the pot with the cabbage mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or parsley.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Soulful Cabbage Stew with Chicken and Dumplings
This hearty stew is a comforting blend of tender chicken, flavorful cabbage, and fluffy dumplings that will warm your soul. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chopped fresh cabbage
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the dumplings by whisking together flour and milk until smooth.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the stew and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Fried Cabbage with Andouille Sausage
Get ready to savor a flavorful twist on traditional fried cabbage! This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized onions and the spicy kick of Andouille sausage for a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 Andouille sausages, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until caramelized.
3. Add the sliced Andouille sausages and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking them up with a spoon as they brown.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Stir in apple cider vinegar and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Cabbage with Apple Cider Vinegar
Sweet and Tangy Cabbage with Apple Cider Vinegar Recipe
Discover a refreshing twist on traditional cabbage recipes! This sweet and tangy dish is perfect for a quick side dish or as a topping for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, combine the sliced cabbage and minced garlic (if using).
2. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is slightly tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the vinegar mixture over the cabbage and stir to combine.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Southern Cabbage and Pinto Beans
This classic Southern recipe combines tender pinto beans with sweet and tangy cabbage, perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal. With minimal preparation and easy cooking, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in oil until softened.
2. Add the soaked pinto beans, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
5. Stir in the shredded cabbage and continue to cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Garlic Butter Braised Cabbage with Pork Neckbones
This comforting dish is a perfect representation of the marriage between tender pork and velvety cabbage, all infused with aromatic garlic butter. It’s an ideal accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 4 pork neckbones
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add pork neckbones and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cabbage wedges, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender and the cabbage is caramelized.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
One-Pot Cabbage and Rice with Smoked Sausage
A hearty and comforting one-pot dish that combines the sweetness of cabbage, the savory flavor of smoked sausage, and the simplicity of cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook until slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the rice and chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Return the smoked sausage to the pot and stir to combine with the cabbage and rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Rice
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the simplicity of cabbage rolls with the richness of ground beef and rice. Perfect for a comforting meal or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and leaves separated
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and paprika to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Blanch cabbage leaves by submerging them in boiling water for 30 seconds to make them pliable.
6. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the ground beef mixture onto the center of each leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the filling.
7. Roll up cabbage leaves tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Southern Cabbage Soup with Corned Beef
Warm up with a hearty bowl of this comforting soup, packed with tender corned beef, crunchy cabbage, and a hint of smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef brisket or rye
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded green cabbage
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine corned beef, onion, garlic, and paprika.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
4. Add diced tomatoes and shredded cabbage to the pot. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cabbage and Okra Gumbo
This hearty gumbo combines the flavors of the South with a twist – adding tender cabbage and crispy okra to the classic roux-based stew. A perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups chopped cabbage
– 1 cup sliced okra
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, bell pepper, garlic, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in cabbage, okra, chicken broth, water, and filé powder (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hot Water Cornbread with Stewed Cabbage
This hearty cornbread recipe combines the warmth of hot water with the natural sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a rich stewed cabbage accompaniment. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 3 tablespoons hot water
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Stewed Cabbage (recipe below)
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add hot water, melted butter, and egg; stir until just combined.
4. Pour into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Serve with Stewed Cabbage (recipe below).
Stewed Cabbage:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Saute chopped cabbage in butter until tender and caramelized. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
Summary
Celebrate the comfort food goodness of cabbage with these 18 soulful recipes! From classic Southern dishes like slow-cooked fried cabbage with bacon and smoked turkey to hearty stews and braises, there’s something for everyone. Try skillet-braised cabbage with ham hocks or creamy sausage stir-fry, or go old-school with grandma’s buttery cabbage and potatoes. These comforting cabbage recipes are sure to become new family favorites.