Sauteed Cabbage Recipe

Introduction

Sauteed cabbage is a simple, flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of this humble vegetable. With just a few ingredients, you can create a caramelized, tender cabbage perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 head green cabbage (~3 lb)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, but recommended)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 2 tsp sea salt, to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Slice the cabbage thinly and separate the slices into shreds.
2. Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a 12 or 13-inch pan with tall sides over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. If the pan is too small, add the cabbage in batches, allowing it to wilt before adding more. Sauté for 10 to 15 minutes, letting the cabbage caramelize. Stir with tongs every 1 to 2 minutes, but avoid constant stirring to allow browning.
4. Step 4: If using butter and/or balsamic vinegar, reduce heat to medium-low during the last minute or two of cooking. Stir in the butter until melted and add the balsamic vinegar if desired.
5. Step 5: Remove the pan from heat. Season the cabbage with sea salt and black pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process.
• Try substituting green cabbage with savoy or red cabbage for a different texture and color.
• Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten the dish.

Storage

Store leftover sautéed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a small splash of water or oil to prevent drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage for this recipe?

Yes, pre-shredded cabbage works well and saves prep time. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture before cooking to prevent steaming instead of sautéing.

How do I know when the cabbage is properly caramelized?

The cabbage should turn a deep golden brown in spots and become tender while still retaining a slight bite. Avoid over-stirring to allow the natural sugars to brown.

Sauteed Cabbage Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 149 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This recipe for sautéed cabbage offers a simple, flavorful way to enjoy green cabbage with a caramelized finish. Cooked in olive oil with garlic and optionally enriched with butter and balsamic vinegar, this dish is a savory, slightly tangy side that pairs well with many meals. The technique emphasizes letting the cabbage brown rather than stirring constantly to develop deep flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 head Green cabbage (~3 lb)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)

Oils & Fats

• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 tbsp Unsalted butter (optional, but recommended)

Additional Flavorings

• 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 2 tsp Sea salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage: Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Slice the cabbage thinly, separating the slices into shreds to ensure even cooking.
2. Heat the oil and cook garlic: Warm olive oil in a large 12 or 13-inch pan with tall sides over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn.
3. Cook the cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. If the pan can’t accommodate all at once, add in batches allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly to make room. Sauté for 10-15 minutes, allowing the cabbage to caramelize by stirring with tongs every 1-2 minutes but not constantly, to encourage browning.
4. Add butter and balsamic vinegar: If using, reduce the heat to medium-low in the last minute or two of cooking. Stir in the unsalted butter until melted and then add balsamic vinegar for extra flavor, mixing well.
5. Season and serve: Remove the pan from heat. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish.

Notes

• Using a pan with tall sides helps to contain the cabbage as it cooks and shrinks.
• Not stirring constantly allows the cabbage to caramelize which deepens the flavor.
• Butter and balsamic vinegar are optional but add richness and a tangy sweetness.
• Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
• For a vegan version, omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: sautéed cabbage, caramelized cabbage, garlic cabbage, easy vegetable side, healthy side dish