Simple Cabbage And Sausage Recipe

Name: Simple Cabbage And Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb smoked kielbasa sausage; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 medium head of cabbage (cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces (about 2 lbs)); 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil (divided); ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (adjust as needed); ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar; ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy depth); ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)

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When the temperature drops, nothing warms the soul like a comforting dish. I remember many chilly evenings when my grandmother would whip up her famous simple cabbage and sausage.

The aroma would fill the house and would have everyone gathering in the kitchen. Today, I want to share this approachable dish that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for sharing.

Table of Contents

What is Simple Cabbage and Sausage?

At its core, simple cabbage and sausage is a one-pot wonder, combining smoky kielbasa with tender cabbage. The dish is rustic and fills your plate with wholesome goodness. It’s a satisfying meal that’s both filling and tasty.

The beauty lies in its simplicity, yet the flavors are anything but dull. You’ll find yourself craving this dish again and again.

This recipe revolves around a few basic ingredients that harmonize with one another. Imagine juicy sausage pieces mingling with soft cabbage, creating an incredible comfort food experience. It’s a dish with deep roots, popular in various European cuisines, each culture adding its own twist.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Cabbage and Sausage

There are many reasons to adore this dish. First and foremost, it’s straightforward. Cooking doesn’t get more accessible than sautéing a few ingredients together. Each step leads you closer to a delightful meal without unnecessary fuss.

Additionally, this recipe is budget-friendly. With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip this up for dinner without breaking the bank.

From my own experience, if you enjoy meals that are bustling with flavor yet don’t require extensive culinary skills, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s nutritious, especially when paired with fresh vegetables. You’ll feel satisfied without the heaviness.

The Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our supplies. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple dish:

1 lb smoked kielbasa sausage: This adds that smoky flavor we crave.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Onions provide sweetness and depth.
3 cloves garlic, minced: The smell of garlic sautéing in olive oil is pure joy.
1 medium head of cabbage, cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces (about 2 lbs): Cabbage is the star here, softening and absorbing all the flavors.
1 ½ tablespoons olive oil, divided: A bit for sautéing and a splash for flavor.
¾ teaspoon kosher salt, adjust as needed: Seasoning is essential; taste as you go.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A little kick is always welcome.
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar: A splash of acidity is perfect to brighten the dish.
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional): For an extra layer of flavor.
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): This brings depth and warmth.

Once you have everything, you’ll be ready to create something special.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Get Started with the Sausage

Begin by slicing your kielbasa into bite-sized pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the sausage. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until browned. The goal is to let the sausage release its flavor, which will serve as the base for your dish.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Once your sausage is looking golden, it’s time to introduce the onion and garlic. Stir them in, cooking for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion turns translucent. This combination creates an aromatic foundation. I always stop to smell it; it’s a reminder that good food takes time!

Step 3: Cabbage Time

Now, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. At first, it may seem overwhelming, but don’t worry. Cabbage wilts down significantly. Sprinkle in the kosher salt and black pepper to season. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and reduces in volume.

Step 4: Flavor Boost

Once your cabbage is tender, it’s time to enhance the flavors. Drizzle in the remaining olive oil, red wine vinegar, and if you like, Dijon mustard and smoked paprika. These ingredients add complexity that lifts this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes to marry the flavors.

Step 5: Final Check

Finally, taste your dish. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as your palate desires. Give it a good stir, and you’re done. Serve this hot, and enjoy every warm bite.

Tips & Tricks

Experiment with Sausage Varieties: Feel free to substitute the kielbasa with bratwurst, turkey sausage, or even a veggie sausage for a different flavor profile.
Add More Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or even potatoes can be great additions. They add more color and nutrients.
Make It Spicy: If you enjoy some heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Cook Ahead: This dish keeps well, so make it on the weekend and reheat during the week for effortless meals.
Garnish for Presentation: Top with chopped parsley or green onions before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Can I Store Simple Cabbage and Sausage?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge for three to five days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container.

When you’re ready to feast again, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

You can also freeze leftovers for several months, making it a convenient meal that’s always at your fingertips.

What Can I Serve with Simple Cabbage and Sausage?

This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas:

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up those delicious juices.
Potatoes: Mashed or roasted, potatoes complement sausage beautifully.
Applesauce: The sweetness of applesauce contrasts wonderfully with the savory flavors.
Salad: A simple green salad can balance the richness of the dish.
Rice: Serving it over rice can turn this into a hearty one-bowl meal.

Variations

Feel adventurous? Here are some variations to keep the recipe fresh and exciting:

Add Beans: Incorporating kidney or black beans can boost protein and fiber while adding texture.
Go Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for plant-based alternatives, using extra seasonings for flavor.
Spicy Kick: Spice it up by using spicy sausage and adding jalapeños or serrano peppers.
Tropical Twist: Mix in pineapple chunks for a fun and sweet addition that balances the richness.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, cilantro, or dill during cooking for a more aromatic profile.

Simple Cabbage And Sausage Recipe

Mary Lee RD

When the temperature drops, nothing warms the soul like a comforting dish. I remember many chilly evenings when my grandmother would whip up her famous simple cabbage and sausage.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Course Main Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings Servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Dutch oven

Ingredients

1 lb smoked kielbasa sausage
1 medium onion finely chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
1 medium head of cabbage cored and chopped into 1-inch pieces (about 2 lbs)
1 ½ tablespoons olive oil divided
¾ teaspoon kosher salt adjust as needed
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard optional, for a tangy depth
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for a hint of smokiness