Description
Southern Cabbage is the ultimate comfort side dish that’s both hearty and easy to prepare. This tender, buttery cabbage is slow-simmered with onions, garlic, and a blend of spices that give it rich Southern flavor. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner side, a quick budget meal, or a healthy snack idea, this recipe checks all the boxes. Perfect for holiday tables, weeknight meals, or soul food cravings, it’s one of those timeless food ideas you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients
1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup chicken broth
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
1/2 cup chopped smoked sausage (optional)
Instructions
1. Remove any wilted or tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut in half, then quarters, core it, and chop into bite-sized strips. Slice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Heat a large cast iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add butter and olive oil (or bacon grease if using).
3. Add onions and sauté for 3–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add chopped cabbage, stirring to coat with butter and onion. Cook 5–7 minutes until starting to soften.
5. Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika. Add bacon or sausage if using. Pour in broth, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot as a side or main with cornbread or rice.
Notes
For a sweeter version, add 1 teaspoon of sugar or sauté some grated carrot.
Make it vegetarian by using olive oil and vegetable broth instead of bacon fat or meat.
Cook on low heat to prevent burning and allow flavors to develop.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Southern cabbage, easy recipe, soul food, dinner ideas, cabbage recipe