Are you craving a warm, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This Ham and Cabbage Crock Pot recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's a delicious, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish that requires minimal effort, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas – and it's a fantastic example of delicious dishes made with homemade cooking. This truly is one of the best recipes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in ham, cut into 1-inch cubes (leftover ham works wonderfully!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small head of green cabbage, cored and shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your vegetables. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into roughly equal-sized pieces. Shred the cabbage, ensuring you remove the tough core. This step is crucial for even cooking. Cubing the ham helps it cook evenly and ensures it's tender throughout the slow cooking process.
Step 2: Layer the Crock Pot
In your slow cooker, layer the ingredients. Start with the cubed ham at the bottom, followed by the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Next, add the shredded cabbage. Even layering helps with the even distribution of flavors and prevents some vegetables from overcooking while others remain undercooked.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Spices
Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables and ham. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and bay leaf (if using). Stir gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated in the broth. Avoid over-mixing; you want to retain the integrity of the vegetables.
Step 4: 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 ham is tender and the cabbage is cooked through. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for tenderness before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf (if used) before serving. You can serve this delicious dish as is, or garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of freshness and visual appeal. This simple dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use bone-in ham for extra depth of flavor and richness.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, turnips, or parsnips.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers are a bonus: This dish tastes even better the next day!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 (depending on ham type and serving size)
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Ham and Cabbage Crock Pot recipe is a perfect example of a quick, easy, and healthy meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the ease of this classic slow cooker recipe!