Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This fried cabbage with smoked sausage recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a classic comfort food, elevated with the smoky goodness of sausage and the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked cabbage. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple homemade cooking can create truly delicious dishes. Get ready to impress your family with this easy recipe, which is also a great source of healthy nutrients!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage (your favorite kind – kielbasa, andouille, or Polish sausage all work wonderfully!), sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional, but adds a nice tang)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Cabbage: Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet with the onions. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to combine and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
Step 3: Add Liquid and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar (if using). Stir well and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender to your liking. You want it to be tender but still retain a little bit of a bite.
Step 4: Combine and Serve: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot as a delicious and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage:
- Thinly slice the cabbage: This helps it to cook evenly and quickly. Using a mandoline slicer can ensure uniform slices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of cabbage, you may need to cook it in batches to prevent steaming instead of frying.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your cabbage slices and your preferred level of tenderness.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as paprika, caraway seeds, or red pepper flakes, to customize the flavor to your liking.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to this recipe.
- Use different types of sausage: Try using Italian sausage, chorizo, or even breakfast sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some extra heat.
- Add some sweetness: A tablespoon or two of brown sugar can balance out the savory flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This fried cabbage with smoked sausage recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your preferences, making it a great addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy!