Cabbage Stew Recipe
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Cabbage stew is the ultimate comfort food that’s healthy, easy to make, and packed with flavor. This dish transforms simple ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and onions into a hearty, savory side that complements any meal. Perfect for those on low-carb diets or anyone looking for a satisfying vegetable dish, this cabbage stew is sure to become a favorite at your table.
This cabbage stew recipe makes a very tasty and healthy side dish. If you are on a low carb diet and looking for more side dish option, try this stewed cabbage! Cabbage stew is a perfect substitute for the usual grains and starches. Hot stewed cabbage is very comforting and very yummy, and it goes really well with meat, poultry or fish!
Why You’ll Love Cabbage Stew
- Packed with Flavor: This cabbage stew is a savory blend of tender cabbage, sweet carrots, and tangy sauce. Each bite delivers a delicious combination of flavors that keeps you coming back for more.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish is low in carbs and rich in vitamins. It’s a perfect choice for a healthy side that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Versatile Pairing: Whether you’re serving meat, poultry, or fish, this stew pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. It’s also hearty enough to enjoy on its own for a light meal.
- Simple to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly and stress-free. Plus, it uses tools like a food processor to make prep even easier.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew stores well and tastes just as delicious reheated. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.
To make this tasty cabbage stew, first you pan-fry shredded carrots and onions, then stew the cabbage in a covered frying pan with a little bit of water. When the cabbage is soft, add the flavorful sauce of ketchup, sugar, vinegar and pepper. This makes a hearty tasting vegetable side dish that’s so full of flavor!
Cabbage Stew Recipe
Cabbage Stew Ingredients
- 2 carrots – Add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 2 onions – Provide a savory base that enhances the flavor of the stew.
- 1 tbsp oil – Used to sauté the vegetables for added richness.
- 1 small head of cabbage – The star ingredient, delivering a tender texture and mild flavor.
- 1/4 cup water – Helps steam and soften the cabbage during cooking.
- 1/2 cup ketchup – Adds a tangy, sweet flavor to the stew’s sauce.
- 1 tbsp sugar – Balances the tanginess of the ketchup and vinegar.
- 1 tsp vinegar – Brings a subtle acidity that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Seasons the stew and ties all the flavors together.
- 1/8 tsp pepper – Adds a hint of spice for a flavorful finish.
For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Cabbage Stew
- Food Processor: Used with shredding and slicing disks to quickly prepare the carrots and cabbage.
- Large Non-Stick Frying Pan: Perfect for sautéing the vegetables and stewing the cabbage without sticking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the ingredients.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Needed to chop and prepare the vegetables before processing.
- Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining the sauce ingredients.
Instructions How To Make Stewed Cabbage
- Shred the carrots in the food processor fitted with the shredding disk. Chop the onions.
- Heat the oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the shredded carrots and chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Remove the carrots and onions from the frying pan into a bowl.
- Cut the cabbage into large pieces and discard the core. Slice the cabbage in a food processor fitted with the slicing disk.
- Pour water in a frying pan, then add sliced cabbage. Cook, stirring periodically, on medium-high heat for 5 minutes, then reduce heat to low, cover and cook the cabbage for 30 minutes.
- In a cup, mix the ketchup, sugar, vinegar, salt and pepper. Add this mixture to the stewed cabbage. Add the fried carrots and onions. Mix everything, cover and cook the cabbage stew on low heat for 15 more minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve cabbage stew alongside roasted chicken or baked fish for a complete and balanced meal.
- Pair it with mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash to complement its hearty flavors.
- Use it as a topping for a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill before serving to enhance the dish’s presentation.
- Serve it with a slice of sandwich bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips For Success
- Prepare Vegetables Efficiently: Use a food processor for shredding and slicing the vegetables. This not only saves time but also ensures even cooking. If you don’t have a food processor, a box grater and a sharp knife will work as substitutes.
- Control the Heat: Start by sautéing the carrots and onions over medium-high heat to caramelize them slightly, which enhances their sweetness. Once you add the cabbage and water, reduce the heat to low to allow the flavors to meld together without burning.
- Mix the Sauce Thoroughly: Ensure the ketchup, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper are well combined before adding them to the stew. This ensures that the flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the stew before the final simmer. If you prefer it tangier, add a splash more vinegar. For a sweeter flavor, increase the sugar slightly. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Be Patient with Stewing: Allow the cabbage to cook fully until it’s tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. The slow cooking process is key to achieving the best texture and taste.
Variations And Substitutions
- Add Protein: Transform this side dish into a main course by adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage. These additions pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of the stew.
- Go Vegan: Replace ketchup with tomato paste and a dash of maple syrup for a natural sweetness. This makes the dish entirely plant-based while keeping the same great taste.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a touch of heat. A pinch of cayenne can also add an extra kick for spice lovers.
- Swap the Vinegar: If you don’t have white vinegar, use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a slightly different tang. Both work well and bring their unique notes to the dish.
- Incorporate Herbs: Add dried or fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, or dill to give the stew an herbal twist. These add a refreshing layer of flavor to the dish.
- Use Different Vegetables: Mix in shredded zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added variety and nutrients. These vegetables blend seamlessly with the cabbage and enhance the stew’s texture.
- Try Alternative Sweeteners: Replace sugar with honey, agave syrup, or a natural sugar substitute if you’re reducing refined sugar intake.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Allow the cabbage stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled stew in freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: Place the stew in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You may need to add a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Microwave Reheating: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the stew as this can cause the cabbage to become overly mushy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cabbage stew ahead of time?
Yes, this cabbage stew is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the refrigerator and even freezes beautifully. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it tastes even better the next day.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Absolutely! Red cabbage will work just as well and adds a vibrant color to the dish. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly earthier, and the cooking time may vary slightly.
How do I adjust the seasoning to suit my taste?
Taste the stew before the final simmer and tweak the seasoning to your liking. For a tangier flavor, add a bit more vinegar. To make it sweeter, increase the sugar slightly. You can also add additional spices like paprika or chili flakes for an extra kick.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of ketchup?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used as a substitute. Blend or finely chop the tomatoes, and add a small amount of sugar or honey to balance the natural acidity. This makes the stew even fresher and more wholesome.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this cabbage stew are naturally gluten-free. However, if you’re using a store-bought ketchup, double-check the label to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives.
Can I add potatoes to this stew?
Definitely! Adding diced potatoes can make this dish heartier and turn it into a more filling side or even a main course. Be sure to adjust the cooking time as potatoes may take a little longer to soften.
What main dishes pair well with cabbage stew?
This cabbage stew pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted pork, baked fish, or even a vegetarian protein like lentil patties. Its tangy and slightly sweet flavor complements a wide range of proteins.
Other Easy Cabbage Recipes
Low-Carb Cabbage and Beans Dish | Simple and Nutritious: A hearty, protein-packed dish combining tender cabbage and beans, perfect for a low-carb lifestyle.
Crispy Fried Cabbage with Smoky Bacon: Sautéed cabbage paired with crispy bacon for a smoky, flavorful side dish.
Quick Red Cabbage Sauté Recipe – Healthy & Flavorful: A vibrant, quick-to-make red cabbage sauté bursting with healthy goodness and bold flavors.
Scrambled Eggs with Shredded Cabbage: A simple and satisfying breakfast combining fluffy eggs with crunchy cabbage.
Keto-Friendly Parmesan Cabbage Wedges: Oven-roasted cabbage wedges topped with golden Parmesan cheese for a crispy, low-carb delight.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Bake (No Tomato Sauce Needed): A comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground beef and cabbage in a savory blend without tomato sauce.
Refreshing Red Cabbage Slaw Recipe | Healthy & Easy: A crisp, tangy red cabbage slaw that’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Cabbage Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 small cabbage head
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp pepper
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Food processor with shredding and slicing disks
Instructions
- Shred the carrots using a food processor with the shredding disk. Chop the onions.
- Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the shredded carrots and chopped onions, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.
- Cut the cabbage into large pieces, removing the core. Slice it using the food processor fitted with the slicing disk.
- Add the water and sliced cabbage to the frying pan. Cook on medium-high heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix ketchup, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the stewed cabbage, then add the fried carrots and onions. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook for another 15 minutes on low heat.
- Serve and enjoy this delicious and nutritious cabbage stew!
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, or a touch of your favorite spices.
- This dish stores well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it great for meal prep.
Nutrition
Enjoy this tasty and healthy cabbage stew! For more healthy vegetable side dishes, check out how to make steamed asparagus, how to make roasted beets and easy roasted broccoli recipe. And don’t miss another great recipe to make with cabbage – stuffed cabbage rolls recipe.
