Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy vegetarian dinner? Look no further! This fried cabbage recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a simple side dish, this recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. It's one of those best recipes that's both satisfying and surprisingly versatile.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable broth (or water)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Cabbage: Start by thinly slicing the cabbage. The thinner the slices, the faster they'll cook and the more tender they'll be. Aim for ribbons, not thick chunks. If you have a mandoline slicer, this is the perfect time to use it!
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and caraway seeds (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes. You want the cabbage to wilt and become tender-crisp. Don't be afraid to move it around the pan to ensure even cooking.
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Season and Simmer: Stir in the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and vegetable broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is cooked to your liking. The longer it simmers, the more tender it will become.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately as a delicious and healthy side dish or a light vegetarian meal. This fried cabbage pairs wonderfully with roasted potatoes, grilled chicken (if you're not strictly vegetarian), or simply enjoyed on its own.
Cooking Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of cabbage, cook it in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less salt, pepper, or smoked paprika depending on your preference.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Spice it up: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Variations:
- Bacon Fried Cabbage: For a non-vegetarian option, add 4-5 slices of cooked bacon to the skillet along with the onions. The smoky flavor of the bacon complements the cabbage beautifully.
- Sausage Fried Cabbage: Similar to the bacon variation, add cooked sausage for a hearty and flavorful meal.
- Garlic and Onion Fried Cabbage: If you prefer a simpler flavor profile, omit the caraway seeds and smoked paprika and focus on the garlic and onion for a classic fried cabbage taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and serving size. However, a typical serving offers a good source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s a relatively low-calorie and low-fat option, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet. For precise nutritional information, we recommend using a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and these easy recipes! This recipe for fried cabbage exemplifies delicious dishes you can easily make at home. It's one of the best recipes for busy weeknights.