There’s something delightfully comforting about the sizzling sound of cabbage meeting a hot skillet. In just 20 minutes, you can breathe life into this humble vegetable with a bit of garlic and onions, creating a sautéed cabbage recipe that transforms it into a deliciously sweet and savory side dish. Whether you’re looking to bring something new to your dinner table or just trying to add a healthy twist to your meals, this quick and gluten-free recipe fits the bill perfectly.
With its tender yet slightly crunchy texture and a flavor profile that complements everything from grilled meats to hearty grains, sautéed cabbage isn’t just a side; it can be a star all on its own. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily toss in some carrots or mushrooms for added color and nutrition or even pair it with your favorite protein for a complete dish. Let’s dive into the scrumptious world of sautéed cabbage, where ease meets exceptional flavor!
Why is this sautéed cabbage recipe a must-try?
Quick Prep Time: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The garlic and onions bring out the natural sweetness of the cabbage, making every bite a delight.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber and vitamins, it’s a fantastic healthy addition to any meal.
Versatile Base: From grilled meats to grains, it pairs well with everything, enhancing your meals effortlessly.
Customizable: Add carrots or mushrooms for a vibrant twist, or toss in cooked proteins for a hearty main dish.
Don’t miss out on making this delicious, gluten-free side!
Sautéed Cabbage Ingredients
For the Base
- Small Green Cabbage – Adds bulk and nutrition; swap for purple cabbage to brighten up your dish.
- Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots make a great alternative if you’re out of onions.
- Garlic Cloves – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; garlic powder can be a quick substitute if fresh isn’t handy.
For Cooking
- Ghee or Blend of Butter and Olive Oil – This cooking fat helps achieve that golden caramelization; use any oil you prefer for a dairy-free option.
- Kosher Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Elevates the overall flavor; adjust the seasoning according to your dietary needs.
With this easy-to-follow sautéed cabbage recipe, you are just a few ingredients away from creating a flavorful side that everyone will love!
How to Make Sautéed Cabbage
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Slice the Cabbage: Start by cutting the cabbage in half and removing the core. Thinly slice it and set it aside, along with slices of onion for later use.
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Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, melt ghee over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook only until it’s fragrant, which takes about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it, as that can alter the taste!
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Cook the Cabbage: Now, add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Sauté for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage has softened and develops a beautiful golden-brown color.
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Season and Serve: Finally, season your sautéed cabbage with kosher salt and ground black pepper, tossing everything to combine thoroughly. Serve hot as a delicious side dish!
Optional: For added flavor, sprinkle with freshly grated caraway seeds before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sautéed Cabbage?
Sautéed cabbage brings a delightful twist to any meal, and it’s easy to pair with delicious accompaniments.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken is the perfect protein partner, adding a savory note that complements the sweetness of the cabbage.
- Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy grain bowl adds a nutty flavor and hearty texture, making for a balanced and nutritious meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy and golden on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside—these spuds make a comforting side that elevates your sautéed cabbage recipe.
- Pulled Pork: The rich, smoky taste of pulled pork pairs beautifully, enhancing the dish’s savory elements while offering a satisfying contrast in textures.
- Lentil Salad: A refreshing lentil salad adds protein and acidic brightness, creating a colorful contrast to the warmth of sautéed cabbage.
- Carrot and Raisin Slaw: This sweet and crunchy slaw lightens the plate, providing a perfect fresh counterpart to the tender sautéed cabbage.
For an easy weeknight meal, any of these options will make your sautéed cabbage a star!
How to Store and Freeze Sautéed Cabbage
Fridge: Store sautéed cabbage in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, allowing you to enjoy leftovers with ease.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sautéed cabbage in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to rejuvenate the texture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving sautéed cabbage at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage.
Sautéed Cabbage Variations
Feel free to get creative with this sautéed cabbage recipe; there’s so much room for delicious twists and swaps!
- Colorful Cabbage: Swap green for purple cabbage for a vibrant look and slightly different flavor.
- Sweet Carrots: Add grated carrots for a splash of color and natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cabbage.
- Savory Mushrooms: Toss in sliced mushrooms for an earthy depth; sauté them alongside the onions for best results.
- Protein Boost: Include cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier dish; it adds a delightful savory note and protein boost.
- Vegan Delight: Use coconut oil instead of ghee, making it a fully plant-based option without compromising on flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in chopped fresh dill or parsley at the end to amp up the freshness; they beautifully enhance the dish’s aroma.
- Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick; it complements the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
- Tangy Twist: Drizzle with a bit of apple cider vinegar before serving; it brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Embrace the joy of changing up this classic dish; each variation turns it into an exciting new experience!
Make Ahead Options
These sautéed cabbage recipes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the cabbage and onions up to 24 hours in advance to save time during your busy week. Just refrigerate the prepped ingredients in an airtight container, ensuring they’re well sealed to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply melt your ghee in the skillet, sauté the onions and garlic as directed, then add the pre-sliced cabbage and follow the normal cooking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious and nutritious side dish with minimal effort, perfect for those hectic nights. Just like when freshly made, your sautéed cabbage will be just as delightful and satisfying!
Expert Tips for Sautéed Cabbage
• Use a Large Skillet: This helps achieve optimal caramelization; if your pan is crowded, work in batches to avoid steaming the cabbage.
• Don’t Rush the Onions: Sauté the onions until they’re soft but not browned. A gradual cooking process brings out their sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Add Flavorful Enhancements: Don’t forget optional ingredients like caraway seeds or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a pleasant tang that complements your sautéed cabbage recipe.
• Store Properly: Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They will last 3-4 days in the fridge and freeze well for up to 3 months.
• Experiment with Variations: Feel free to mix in veggies such as carrots or mushrooms for extra nutrition or add proteins like bacon or sausage for a heartier dish.
Sautéed Cabbage Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use?
Absolutely! For this sautéed cabbage recipe, a small green cabbage is perfect as it adds bulk and nutrition. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using purple cabbage for a vibrant twist that brightens up your dish.
How should I store leftover sautéed cabbage?
To enjoy leftovers, store your sautéed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools completely before transfer to maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I freeze sautéed cabbage?
Certainly! If you’d like to store your sautéed cabbage for the long haul, freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to refresh its texture.
What toppings or additions can I try?
Very! This sautéed cabbage recipe is incredibly versatile. You can experiment by adding sliced carrots or mushrooms during the cooking process for added nutrition and color. For a heartier option, stir in some cooked bacon, sausage, or even tossed-in proteins like grilled chicken.
How do I know if my sautéed cabbage is overcooked?
Great question! If your cabbage is overcooked, it will lose its crunchy texture and become mushy, potentially turning an unappetizing shade of gray. Aim for a golden-brown color after sautéing for 12-15 minutes, and keep it tender but not mushy.
Is sautéed cabbage safe for pets or those with allergies?
Yes! Sautéed cabbage is generally safe for pets like dogs; however, it’s always best to feed them in moderation and be cautious, as some animals may have individual sensitivities. For allergies, be mindful of the ghee or oil used, as some may need to avoid dairy or specific oils. Always check for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Savory Sautéed Cabbage Recipe in Just 20 Minutes
Equipment
- - Large skillet
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 small green cabbage or purple cabbage
- 1 yellow onion or shallots
- 2 cloves garlic minced or garlic powder
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons ghee or blend of butter and olive oil
- to taste kosher salt
- to taste ground black pepper
Instructions
Steps to Prepare
- Slice the cabbage: Start by cutting the cabbage in half and removing the core. Thinly slice it and set it aside, along with slices of onion for later use.
- Cook the onions: In a large skillet, melt ghee over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they're soft and fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook only until it's fragrant, which takes about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it.
- Cook the cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Sauté for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage has softened and develops a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Season and serve: Season your sautéed cabbage with kosher salt and ground black pepper, tossing everything to combine thoroughly. Serve hot.