Cooked Cabbage
A comforting and savory cooked cabbage dish featuring tender cabbage infused with smoky bacon drippings, seasoned with salt and black pepper. Perfect as a side for hearty meals, it offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy cabbage with rich, savory notes that appeal to all palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the cabbage into large pieces, including the stalks.
- Place the cabbage in a 4-quart cooker.
- Add bacon drippings, salt, pepper, and water to the cooker.
- Cook until the cabbage is tender, adding more water if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon drippings instead of regular for added depth. You can substitute the cabbage with other greens like kale or collard greens if desired. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, especially if serving with salty dishes like Bacon Stix. Remember to wash the cabbage thoroughly to remove any dirt or insects before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This cooked cabbage can be served as a main dish or as a side to complement hearty meals. It pairs beautifully with Pork recipes, especially roasted pork or sausages. For a complete meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes and a salad. You could also incorporate it into dishes like a Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole for added nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cooked cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent sticking, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, use the microwave, covering the dish to keep moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cooked Cabbage contains roughly 154 calories, with 7g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 564mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?
While fresh cabbage is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen cabbage. Just ensure it is thawed and drained well before cooking to prevent excess moisture, which can make the dish watery.
How can I enhance the flavor of the cooked cabbage?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or onion to the cooking liquid. A splash of apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick. Experimenting with spices like cumin or smoked paprika can provide additional depth.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by substituting the bacon drippings with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor. Adjust seasoning accordingly to maintain the taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).