If You Like Cabbage
A hearty cabbage stew infused with tomatoes, bacon, and vegetables, perfect for comforting family meals with a balance of savory, tangy, and smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon slightly in a medium-sized pot.
- Saute onion and garlic in the bacon drippings.
- Crush the canned tomatoes in a small bowl.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, 1 1/2 cans of water, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add cabbage, potatoes, and black-eyed peas to the pot.
- Cook until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
- Serve with corn bread and butter, and pepper sauce if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for a tangy note. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. You can also use any variety of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, to suit your preference. This dish is versatile and can easily incorporate leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of cornbread and butter for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with pepper sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat. For a complete dinner, consider adding a fresh green salad or some pickled vegetables on the side. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to help maintain moisture, and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of If You Like Cabbage contains roughly 431 calories, with 12g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 874mg per serving (38% 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 a different type of meat instead of bacon?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with diced ham or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, consider using smoked tofu or tempeh to achieve a similar smoky flavor without the meat.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side to allow guests to adjust the spice level to their liking.
What can I serve as a side dish?
Cornbread is a classic pairing for this recipe, but you could also serve it with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables. For a heartier side, consider making a batch of coleslaw to complement the flavors of the cabbage dish.
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).