Are you looking for a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of cabbage? Look no further! This crock pot cabbage recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your healthy meal rotation. Prepare to be amazed by how much flavor you can pack into this simple, healthy dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and roughly chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
-
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
-
Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more tender and flavorful the cabbage will become.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the cabbage hot. This dish is delicious on its own as a hearty side dish or as a light and healthy main course.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Cabbage:
- Don't Overcrowd the Crock Pot: Ensure you don't overfill your slow cooker, leaving enough space for the cabbage to cook evenly.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and thyme according to your preference. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
- Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or chickpeas to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Cabbage: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Apple Cabbage: Incorporate 1-2 diced apples for a sweet and savory twist.
- Bacon Cabbage: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before serving for a smoky, savory flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on variations and serving size)
- Fat: Around 5-8 grams
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25 grams
- Fiber: Around 5-7 grams
This crock pot cabbage recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for meal prepping, and offers a delightful way to enjoy this often-underappreciated vegetable. Try it today and discover a new favorite comfort food!