As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, many of us gather around the table to celebrate with family and friends. And what better way to do that than with a delicious meal featuring one of the most versatile vegetables in your fridge: cabbage! Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food or international flair, this humble green has got you covered.
From braised red cabbage with apples and bacon to spicy kimchi fried rice, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase cabbage’s incredible range. So grab a pen and paper (or your favorite recipe app), and get ready to ring in the new year with these tasty dishes that are sure to become new family favorites.
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Bacon
A sweet and savory twist on traditional braised cabbage, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of red cabbage and apples with the smoky flavor of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the butter to the pot and melt it. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the sliced cabbage, apples, and apple cider vinegar to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let braise for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, topped with the crispy bacon.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Classic New Year’s Sauerkraut with Pork
Ring in the new year with a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tangy sauerkraut with tender pork. This classic recipe is a beloved tradition in many households on January 1st.
Ingredients:
– 5 lbs pork shoulder or butt, boneless
– 2 lbs sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, brown the pork shoulder in a little oil until browned on all sides.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sauerkraut to the pot, stirring to combine with the pork mixture.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cabbage and Kielbasa Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup made with tender cabbage, spicy kielbasa, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the browned kielbasa back into the pot. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the soup to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce
This classic Eastern European dish is a hearty and flavorful meal that combines tender cabbage leaves filled with savory rice and meat mixture, served in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook cabbage leaves in boiling water until tender. Remove and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Blanch the cabbage leaves by dipping them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Then, fill each leaf with the meat mixture, rolling tightly and securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the rolls on all sides, then transfer to a baking dish.
6. Pour crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth over the cabbage rolls. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
Get ready for a flavorful fusion of Korean chili flakes and savory rice! This Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice recipe is a quick and easy twist on traditional fried rice, packed with the bold flavors of kimchi.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced kimchi
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the kimchi and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, incorporating the flavors and heating the rice through.
6. Add the chili flakes; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. If desired, push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through. Mix with the rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
German-Style Cabbage and Potato Hash
German-Style Cabbage and Potato Hash: A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions with the tanginess of sautéed cabbage and potatoes. Perfect for accompanying your favorite German-inspired dishes, such as schnitzel or sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup caraway seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add the shredded cabbage and diced potatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Season with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage
This classic St. Patrick’s Day dish is simplified with the use of a slow cooker, making it easy to prepare and tenderize the corned beef to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs corned beef brisket
– 1 large head of cabbage, cut into wedges
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the corned beef brisket in the slow cooker.
2. Add the cabbage, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and brown sugar on top of the meat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the corned beef from the slow cooker and slice against the grain.
6. Serve the sliced corned beef with the cooked cabbage, onion, and garlic.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Asian-Inspired Stir-Fried Cabbage
Quickly stir-fry cabbage with a medley of savory Asian flavors and aromas. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish to complement your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the thinly sliced cabbage and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
6. Pour the sauce over the cabbage mixture and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions (if desired).
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Citrus Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the crunch of shredded cabbage and carrots with a zesty citrus dressing, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or enjoying as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the citrus dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is ready in just a few minutes.
Bubble and Squeak Cabbage Patties
Transforming leftover roast dinner into a tasty new meal, these Bubble and Squeak Cabbage Patties are a creative way to reduce food waste. With a crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they’re perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup leftover roast vegetable mixture (e.g. carrots, peas, potatoes)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine chopped cabbage, olive oil, onion, garlic, and leftover roast vegetables. Mix well.
3. Add the egg and mix until the mixture is sticky but not wet.
4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
5. Shape each portion into a patty and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or sides.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This classic skillet dish is a perfect combination of savory sausage, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic spices. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the shredded cabbage, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Russian Cabbage Soup (Shchi)
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s a staple of Russian cuisine, Shchi is a comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 pound of pork or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the cabbage, pork or beef, onions, garlic, chicken broth, carrots, and diced tomatoes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Stir in the caraway seeds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pickled Cabbage with Beetroot and Garlic
A tangy twist on traditional pickling, this recipe combines the crunch of cabbage with the sweetness of beetroot and pungency of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or topping for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and grated
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1 tsp (5g) sugar
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, beetroot, and garlic.
2. In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cabbage mixture. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Store the pickled cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cabbage and Mushroom Pierogi
Cabbage and Mushroom Pierogi Recipe
Summary: These delicious pierogi are filled with a flavorful mixture of sautéed cabbage and mushrooms, then boiled and pan-fried to perfection. A perfect dish for a chilly evening or as an addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 medium cabbage, finely chopped
+ 1 tablespoon butter
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
+ 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
+ 1 teaspoon paprika
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Divide the dough into smaller pieces, about the size of a golf ball.
3. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
4. Place a tablespoon or two of the cabbage and mushroom filling in the center of each circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Boil pierogi for 5-7 minutes, then pan-fry until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes with Cabbage)
A hearty, comforting side dish that’s a staple of Irish cuisine, Colcannon is a delicious combination of mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, onions, and sometimes ham or bacon.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 2 slices of cooked bacon or ham, diced
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. While the potatoes are cooking, sauté the chopped onion and cabbage in butter until the vegetables are soft and lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
3. Drain the cooked potatoes and mash with a fork or potato masher.
4. Add the cooked cabbage mixture to the mashed potatoes, stirring until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using, stir in diced bacon or ham.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai-Style Cabbage Salad with Peanuts
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of cabbage with the nutty flavor of peanuts, all wrapped up in a zesty and aromatic Thai-inspired dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup of roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup of fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons of lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and roasted peanuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cabbage and Lentil Stew
A comforting and nutritious stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the sweetness of caramelized cabbage, all in one delicious pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to soften.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Grilled Cabbage Wedges with Spicy Mayo
Transform humble cabbage into a delicious summer side dish with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup Spicy Mayo (see below)
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1-2 tbsp sriracha sauce (depending on desired level of heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss cabbage wedges with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Grill cabbage for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
4. While cabbage is grilling, prepare Spicy Mayo by mixing mayonnaise and sriracha sauce in a small bowl.
5. Once cabbage is cooked, brush with Spicy Mayo during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crumbled feta cheese or chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cabbage and Bacon Dumplings
Cabbage and Bacon Dumplings: A Hearty Delight
These savory dumplings are a perfect blend of sweet cabbage, crispy bacon, and tender dough. Serve them as a main course or as a side dish to accompany your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, finely chopped
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cabbage and crumbled bacon.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add the dry mixture to the cabbage mixture, stirring until just combined.
4. Add the warm water and beaten egg to the mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
7. Fry the dumplings in hot oil (375°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the sweetness of sugar and vinegar with the crunch of fresh cabbage, all in one quick and easy dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar.
5. Pour the sweet and sour mixture over the cabbage mixture and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Ring in the new year with these delicious cabbage recipes! From classic sauerkraut to braised red cabbage with apples and bacon, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at cabbage and kielbasa soup or stuffed cabbage rolls with tomato sauce. For a spicy kick, make some kimchi fried rice or grilled cabbage wedges with spicy mayo. And don’t miss out on the international flair – from German-style potato hash to Russian shchi soup and Thai-style cabbage salad, there’s a flavor for every taste bud. Get ready to celebrate the new year with these tasty cabbage recipes!
