Are you craving a delicious, comforting, and surprisingly easy side dish? Look no further than this creamed cabbage recipe! This classic dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and flavorful accompaniment to your favorite meats or as a satisfying vegetarian meal on its own. It’s a simple recipe that yields incredible results, proving that homemade cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe provides a quick dinner idea, perfect for those looking for easy recipes that don't sacrifice taste.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Delicious Creamed Cabbage
Get Started:
- Begin by thinly slicing the cabbage. The thinner the slices, the quicker they'll cook and the more tender the final result will be. A mandoline slicer can be a huge help here!
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your creamed cabbage.
Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will thicken your sauce beautifully.
Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble. Reduce the heat to low to prevent scorching.
Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly in the creamy sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Season and Serve:
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or your favorite protein.
Cooking Tips for the Best Creamed Cabbage
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of caraway seeds or a bay leaf while simmering the cabbage.
- Don't overcook the cabbage! Slightly tender-crisp is the ideal texture.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of some of the milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Explore Different Flavors
- Bacon Creamed Cabbage: Add 4-5 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon to the skillet along with the onions for a smoky twist.
- Spicy Creamed Cabbage: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Apple Creamed Cabbage: Add 1/2 cup of diced apple along with the cabbage for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This creamed cabbage recipe is a simple yet satisfying addition to your healthy meals repertoire. It's a great example of how delicious dishes can be both quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy!