Are you looking to add some excitement to your meals? Do you want to try something new and delicious? Then, look no further! Cabbage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from soups and salads to main courses and side dishes. And the best part is, it’s incredibly healthy too!
In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful cabbage recipes for every occasion. From classic comfort food dishes to international-inspired meals, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a vegetarian or meat-lover, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Let’s start with some comforting braised red cabbage with apples and bacon. This sweet and savory dish is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. Or, if you prefer something lighter, try our creamy coleslaw with Greek yogurt dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for a barbecue or picnic…
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Bacon
This hearty side dish combines the sweetness of apples and caramelized red cabbage with the smokiness of bacon, all slow-cooked to perfection. A perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or as a topping for sausages.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled and sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Add sliced onions to the same pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced red cabbage, apples, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth to the pan. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the pan and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let braise for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Stir in cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Coleslaw with Greek Yogurt Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this recipe combines the crunch of shredded cabbage and carrots with the tanginess of a Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until the cabbage is evenly coated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chilling time)
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice with Napa Cabbage
This recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a warm bowl of fried rice, adding crunchy texture from fresh Napa cabbage. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Push cooked onion and garlic to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix in chopped kimchi, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until combined.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until heated through and starting to brown.
7. Add sliced Napa cabbage and stir-fry until slightly wilted.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Turkey and Quinoa
Transform cabbage leaves into flavorful wraps filled with savory ground turkey and quinoa. This hearty recipe is perfect for a comforting meal or a satisfying dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, blanched
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the turkey mixture; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and mix with the turkey mixture.
5. Remove the cabbage leaves from the blanched head and place them on a flat surface.
6. Place about 1/2 cup of the turkey-quinoa mixture in the center of each leaf. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in both sides and roll up to form a neat package.
7. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Sautéed Cabbage with Garlic and Butter
Simple Sautéed Cabbage with Garlic and Butter
A classic side dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this sautéed cabbage recipe is a great accompaniment to many meals. With the added richness of butter and pungency of garlic, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and combined with the cabbage.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Asian-Inspired Cabbage Stir-Fry with Sesame Oil
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a perfect representation of the harmony between East Asian cuisines, where fermented cabbage meets savory sesame oil. In just 15 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and nutritious side dish that pairs well with many Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly wilted (about 5 minutes).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the cabbage and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Classic German Sauerkraut with Caraway Seeds
Sauerkraut is a staple in German cuisine, and adding caraway seeds gives it a unique flavor and aroma. This recipe is a traditional take on the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 5 lbs cabbage, shredded
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and caraway seeds.
2. Sprinkle salt evenly over the cabbage mixture and massage with your hands for about 5 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften and release its juices.
3. Add the water and mix well.
4. Pack the mixture into a clean glass jar or crock, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets.
5. Cover the jar or crock with a cloth or paper towel and let it sit at room temperature (around 68°F – 72°F) for 3-4 weeks, or until the sauerkraut has reached your desired level of sourness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 weeks
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan and Herbs
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe
Transform ordinary cabbage into a deliciously savory dish with this simple recipe. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage, while Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs add a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head and cut into thick slabs, about 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the cabbage slices and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the cabbage steaks in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley and thyme evenly over the top of each steak. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Cabbage Soup with Tomatoes and Beans
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the crunch of cabbage, and the comfort of beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, cooked kidney beans, vegetable broth, and oregano. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cabbage with Raisins and Vinegar
A twist on the classic cabbage dish, this recipe adds natural sweetness from raisins and a tangy kick from vinegar. Perfect for a side dish or as a base for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the raisins, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt to the skillet.
4. Stir well to combine, then continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crunchy Cabbage and Kale Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of cabbage and kale with a tangy lemon vinaigrette, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded red cabbage
– 1 cup chopped curly kale leaves
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and chopped kale.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage and kale mixture, and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Savory Cabbage and Potato Hash with Eggs
A hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of caramelized onions, crispy potatoes, and tangy cabbage, all topped with a fried egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they start to brown.
4. Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook until it’s tender and lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Create four wells in the hash mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Quick Pickled Cabbage with Jalapeños and Lime
This recipe adds a burst of flavor to traditional pickled cabbage, thanks to the addition of jalapeños and lime juice. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a crunchy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, vinegar, water, sugar, jalapeños, and lime juice.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serve: At room temperature or chilled, this pickled cabbage makes a great topping for tacos, grilled meats, or as a crunchy snack on its own.
Hearty Cabbage and Sausage Skillet Dinner
A simple and satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This hearty skillet dinner combines the flavors of sausage, cabbage, and potatoes in a flavorful and filling dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine for added moisture
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
5. Add the sliced potatoes and cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cabbage is slightly caramelized.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai-Style Cabbage Wraps with Peanut Sauce
Savor the flavors of Thailand with these refreshing cabbage wraps, perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack. Crunchy, slightly sweet cabbage is filled with savory chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, leaves separated
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, scallions)
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat 1-2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the mixed veggies and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a cabbage leaf on a flat surface, adding shredded chicken, veggies, and a drizzle of peanut sauce (see below).
5. Roll up the wrap and serve immediately.
Peanut Sauce:
– Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Cabbage Casserole with Cheese and Breadcrumbs
A comforting, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cabbage, cheese, breadcrumbs, butter, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and a pinch of salt. Add the mixture to the cabbage mixture and stir until the cabbage is evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Warm Cabbage and Bacon Salad with Mustard Dressing
A hearty and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the smokiness of crispy bacon, all tied together with a tangy mustard dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Add sliced cabbage and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is caramelized.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss the cooked cabbage with the crispy bacon and drizzle with the mustard dressing. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indian-Style Cabbage Thoran with Coconut and Curry Leaves
This flavorful thoran recipe is a popular South Indian dish that combines the crunch of cabbage with the warmth of curry leaves, all wrapped up in a rich coconut sauce. A perfect side dish for rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3-4 curry leaves
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the curry leaves, grated ginger, cumin, coriander, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until it starts to soften.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and lemon juice. Season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fermented Curtido (Latin American Cabbage Slaw)
A tangy and crunchy condiment originating from Latin America, Fermented Curtido is a flavorful accompaniment to tacos, grilled meats, and vegetables. This recipe yields a deliciously sour and umami-rich slaw that’s perfect for snacking or using as a topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp caraway seeds (optional)
– 1 tsp active dry yeast
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and kosher salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage until it begins to soften.
2. Add water and mix until the cabbage is submerged. Let it sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours, allowing it to ferment and release its natural juices.
3. After fermentation, drain off any excess liquid and stir in caraway seeds (if using).
4. Pack the slaw into a clean jar, pressing down firmly to remove air pockets. Leave about an inch at the top and cover with cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
5. Allow the Curtido to age at room temperature for 1-2 days before refrigerating. It will thicken as it cools.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (fermentation) + 1-2 days (aging)
Garlicky Cabbage Noodles with Olive Oil and Chili Flakes
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines sautéed cabbage and garlic with olive oil and a kick of chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. noodles (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
4. Stir in the chili flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the garlicky cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 20 mouthwatering cabbage recipes! From classic dishes like Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Bacon to international twists like Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice with Napa Cabbage, there’s something for every occasion. Enjoy creamy coleslaw, savory sautéed cabbage, or hearty casserole dishes. Explore global flavors with recipes like Thai-Style Cabbage Wraps with Peanut Sauce or Indian-Style Cabbage Thoran with Coconut and Curry Leaves. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and sour, crunchy and fresh, or rich and comforting, this collection has got you covered!
