The humble head of cabbage may not always get the recognition it deserves, but we’re here to change that. This versatile vegetable can be boiled to perfection and added to a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to quick and easy skillet meals. In fact, boiled cabbage is a staple in many cuisines around the world, from traditional German recipes to Southern comfort food.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delicious and savory cabbage recipes that are sure to inspire your next meal. From classic pairings like garlic butter and smoked sausage to more adventurous combinations featuring caraway seeds and coconut milk, there’s something for everyone in this collection of boiled cabbage recipes.
Boiled cabbage with garlic butter
This classic recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cabbage while adding a rich and buttery flavor. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, for boiling
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the cabbage. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the chopped cabbage to the boiling water. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, mix the softened butter and minced garlic in a small bowl.
4. Drain the cooked cabbage and add it to a serving dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Simple boiled cabbage and potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutritious goodness. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, for boiling
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the chopped cabbage and potatoes.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
4. Once boiling, add the chopped cabbage and potatoes to the pot.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Drain the pot and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Boiled cabbage with smoked sausage
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and halved
– 2 smoked sausages (such as kielbasa or knockwurst), sliced
– 4 cups of water
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon of caraway seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water and bring to a boil.
2. Add the cabbage halves to the pot, cover, and return to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
4. While the cabbage cooks, cook the sliced sausage in a separate pan over medium-high heat until browned and crispy.
5. Remove the cabbage from the pot with tongs and serve hot with the cooked sausage on top. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy boiled cabbage with chili flakes
A simple yet flavorful twist on traditional boiled cabbage, this recipe adds a spicy kick from chili flakes that will elevate your side dish game. Perfect for pairing with your favorite meats or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to desired level of heat)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped cabbage, water, salt, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Stir in the chili flakes and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Boiled cabbage and carrots in broth
This classic recipe yields a tender and flavorful combination of cabbage and carrots, perfect for a comforting side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2-3 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add the cabbage wedges and carrots to the boiling broth.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove the cabbage and carrots from the pot with a slotted spoon and drain off excess broth.
5. Stir in the butter until melted, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boiled cabbage with bacon and onions
Classic Boiled Cabbage with Bacon and Onions Recipe
This hearty side dish is a staple of many cuisines, especially during the winter months. This simple recipe combines tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions for a deliciously comforting accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and quartered
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water to cover the cabbage
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cabbage quarters.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
3. While the cabbage is cooking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
4. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
6. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
7. Drain the cooked cabbage and combine it with the crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herb-infused boiled cabbage
This simple recipe adds a burst of flavor to the humble boiled cabbage, perfect for side dishes or as an accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cabbage head under cold water, then remove any tough or damaged leaves.
2. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil.
3. Add the olive oil, parsley, and dill to the boiling water.
4. Submerge the cabbage head into the pot, making sure it’s fully covered by the liquid.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boiled cabbage with apple cider vinegar
A simple and flavorful way to prepare cabbage, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable while adding a tangy twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– Optional: caraway seeds or black pepper for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the cabbage, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Stir gently to combine.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
5. Optional: Sprinkle with caraway seeds or black pepper for added flavor.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Boiled red cabbage with honey glaze
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of red cabbage, balanced by a hint of tanginess from the honey glaze. Perfect as a side dish or used in a variety of recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized red cabbage, cored and chopped
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped cabbage, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Strain the cabbage in a colander and rinse with cold running water.
4. In a small saucepan, combine the honey and apple cider vinegar. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves.
5. Toss the cooked cabbage with the honey glaze and serve.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Boiled cabbage and ham hock stew
This comforting stew is a classic combination of tender cabbage, rich ham hocks, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cold winter’s day, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to warm hearts.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped cabbage in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Add the ham hocks, carrots, celery, and onion on top of the cabbage.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the black pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Remove the ham hocks and let cool. Strain the liquid and discard any excess fat.
6. Serve the stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Boiled cabbage with caraway seeds
A classic German-inspired side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or as a comforting accompaniment to hearty soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 tablespoons of caraway seeds
– 4 cups of water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped cabbage and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Stir in the caraway seeds and season with salt to taste.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Boiled cabbage and kielbasa skillet
Elevate your weeknight meal routine with this satisfying skillet dish that combines the comforting flavors of boiled cabbage and kielbasa. This easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick family dinner or weeknight pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 1 pound of kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cabbage wedges and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 5-7 minutes or until browned.
3. Remove the cooked cabbage from the boiling water with a slotted spoon. Add it to the skillet with the kielbasa.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Boiled cabbage with mustard sauce
This simple yet satisfying recipe brings together the tender sweetness of boiled cabbage and the tangy zip of mustard sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 4 cups of water
– 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/2 cup of prepared mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the chopped cabbage, water, and vinegar to a boil in a large pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
4. In a small bowl, mix together prepared mustard and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Serve the boiled cabbage with a dollop of mustard sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Boiled cabbage and chicken soup
A comforting and nutritious soup perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized cabbage heads, chopped
– 4 cups of water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: carrots, celery, or noodles for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, cabbage, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the water, ensuring that all ingredients are covered.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Boiled cabbage with ginger and soy
This simple recipe brings together the natural sweetness of cabbage, the warmth of ginger, and the depth of soy sauce to create a deliciously savory side dish. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the cabbage wedges. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the sliced ginger, soy sauce, and water to the pot.
3. Add the cabbage wedges to the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp.
4. Remove the cabbage from the pot with a slotted spoon and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional sliced ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Boiled cabbage and white beans
This classic dish is a staple of many cuisines, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and deliciously comforting. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and quartered
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the cabbage quarters in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Add the soaked and drained white beans to the pot.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Boiled cabbage with lemon and dill
This refreshing side dish combines the simplicity of boiled cabbage with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill, perfect for accompanying a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and quartered
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 4 cups of water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the cabbage quarters, cover the pot, and reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Remove the cabbage from the pot with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a colander.
5. Run the cabbage under cold water to stop the cooking process.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, salt, and chopped dill.
7. Pour the lemon-dill mixture over the boiled cabbage and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boiled cabbage and turkey sausage
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies and protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, cored and quartered
– 4 turkey sausages (such as Andouille or Knockwurst)
– 2 tablespoons of water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: caraway seeds or black pepper for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the cabbage quarters to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness.
3. Meanwhile, place the turkey sausages in a separate pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Remove the cabbage from the pot with a slotted spoon and drain off any excess water.
5. Serve the boiled cabbage alongside the cooked turkey sausage. Season with salt, pepper, and optional caraway seeds or black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boiled cabbage with coconut milk
This recipe adds a rich and creamy twist to the classic boiled cabbage dish. The coconut milk adds a subtle tropical flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the cabbage, water, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Stir in the coconut milk and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Boiled cabbage with roasted garlic
This recipe is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness of cabbage and pair it with the rich, savory flavor of roasted garlic. Perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, separated from their skins
– Salt, to taste
– Water, for boiling
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with a little water, and fold the foil to create a pouch.
3. Roast the garlic in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and mashed-like.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
5. Add the cabbage wedges to the boiling water and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
6. Drain the cabbage and serve hot with the roasted garlic on top.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 20 savory cabbage recipes! From classic boiled cabbage with garlic butter to more adventurous options like spicy boiled cabbage with chili flakes and boiled red cabbage with honey glaze, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing boiled cabbage with smoked sausage or bacon and onions for added depth. Or go international with herb-infused boiled cabbage, boiled cabbage with ginger and soy, or boiled cabbage and white beans. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a healthy twist, these recipes will boil down to perfection!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
