Flavorful Smothered Cabbage and Onion Recipe
Welcome culinary friends, to my Southern-style Smothered Cabbage and Onions Recipe! As a chef specializing in soul food, I’ve tasted plenty of delicious dishes throughout my life. But I promise you, this smothered cabbage dish will become one of your favorites! The aroma of seasoned vegetables sizzling in a hot pan will tantalize your taste buds even before the first bite.
Growing up in the south, fried cabbage was always part of our Sunday dinner menu. As black folks from the south know, there is nothing quite like the comfort of home-cooked soul food. So, when I set out to create this vegetarian version, I knew it had to be just as delicious and heartwarming as its meaty counterpart.
One of the biggest challenges for vegetarians who yearn for southern cooking is the lack of flavorful meat substitutes. Fear not; my Southern Smothered Cabbage and Onions Recipe brings abundant tastiness to the table without any animal products! This version is vegan-friendly and still captures all the soulful flavors that we Southerners crave.
Although this dish is traditionally enjoyed as a side dish or paired with other soul food favorites like fried chicken or mac n’ cheese, it can be a light dinner option when served with warm cornbread or over rice. Trust me when I say that once you try it, you’ll never look at cabbage in the same way again! So, let’s get started on making some vegan Southern-style Smothered Cabbage and Onions!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same old boring side dishes? Look no further, because this Smothered Cabbage and Onions recipe will be a game changer for your dinner table. This southern-style meatless dish is packed with flavor and will leave your taste buds longing for more.
First and foremost, this smothered cabbage is incredibly easy to prepare. With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a pot in under an hour. It’s perfect when you’re pressed for time but still want to serve a delicious and hearty dish.
The combination of cabbage, onions, and spices makes this recipe particularly special. The heartiness of the cabbage pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the onions, creating a dynamic flavor profile that is sure to satisfy any palate. The seasonings such as chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder among others come together to create an explosion of flavors that dance across your taste buds.
This dish is also perfect for health-conscious eaters. The recipe is completely vegetarian and vegan-friendly, making it an excellent option for those looking to cut down on meat consumption but still want a filling meal.
Pair this dish with some cornbread or rice to soak up all the flavorful juices. You really can’t go wrong!
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a simple yet tasty side dish that packs a lot of flavor while being healthy at the same time, then look no further than smothered cabbage and onions. Give this southern-style meatless recipe a try and trust me, you won’t regret it.
Ingredient List
Simple ingredients for a hearty dish
Get ready to create a savory Southern-style smothered cabbage and onions, with only a few basic ingredients that can be found in any kitchen. Make sure to have these ingredients ready before starting the recipe:
Ingredients 1:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 2 large potatoes
- 1 medium-sized red onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon seasoning salt
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Oil (for frying)
Ingredients 2:
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter or regular butter
- 2 medium yellow onions, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
The measurements in this recipe make enough for four generous portions, but feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your needs. The ingredients can also be substituted with your preferred vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for variety.
The Recipe How-To
Are you ready to dive into the how-to of this smothered cabbage and onions dish? Let’s get started!
Step One: Preparing the Vegetables
- Begin by preparing the vegetables – 1 whole head of cabbage, 2 medium-sized red onions, 1 medium-sized yellow onion, 2 potatoes, and 2 carrots.
- Cut off the core and chop the cabbage.
- Peel and slice the potatoes and carrots into bite-size pieces.
- Slice the onions into thin rounds.
Step Two: Cooking the Vegetables
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add oil.
- Once hot, add the sliced onions and cook until they are soft and translucent.
- Add in 3 tablespoons of vegan butter to intensify the flavor. Follow with sliced potatoes and chopped cabbage pieces.
- Stir well for about 5 minutes until everything has a chance to meld together.
Step Three: Adding Spices
This is where the real magic happens! Here is what you should do:
- Sprinkle in some black pepper, chili powder, paprika, seasoning salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper.
- Place a lid on top of the pot, then reduce heat to low/medium heat. Simmer for about an hour or until done. Check within 30mins to see if it needs additional water.
Step Four: Serving Time
Congratulations! You have made it to my favorite part; serving time!
- Enjoy this vegan Southern-style delicacy with cornbread or sweet potatoes on the side.
Note: While this dish tastes great on its own, it also pairs perfectly with sausage or smoked turkey wings.
Bon Appetit!
Substitutions and Variations
Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? No worries, this recipe is versatile and can easily accommodate substitutions and variations. Here are some ideas:
– Swap out the green cabbage for red cabbage or a mix of both for a colorful twist. You can even use Napa cabbage if you prefer a milder flavor.
– Don’t have potatoes? Try using sweet potatoes or carrots instead. They will add some natural sweetness to the dish.
– For a non-vegetarian version, cook up some bacon, sausage, or smoked turkey wings and add them to the pot along with the cabbage and onions.
– If you want to spice things up, add sliced bell pepper or red pepper flakes to the pot when cooking the onions and garlic.
– Craving some smoky flavors in your dish? Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
– Looking for a lighter version? Skip the butter altogether and use olive oil instead. You can also add some vegetable broth to the pot to make it more soupy.
No matter what substitutions or variations you choose, don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your taste buds.
Serving and Pairing
Southern-style smothered cabbage and onions make for a delicious and hearty dish that can be eaten as the main course or as a side dish for lunch or dinner. Its savory flavor profile pairs well with other southern classics such as fried chicken, biscuits, and cornbread. I recommend serving this recipe with some hot sauce or Tabasco sauce on the side for a tangy kick.
For a heartier meal, you can pair it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and red onions, seasoned with black pepper and chili powder. Mashed potatoes or mac and cheese are also great side dishes to serve alongside smothered cabbage and onions recipe. You can even incorporate smoked turkey wings, sausage or ham hocks for protein if you prefer a meatier option.
Another option is to use this recipe as a topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes. Simply scoop the smothered cabbage and onions onto a baked potato and top it off with some shredded cheese and green onions. This creates a healthy vegetarian-friendly option that is tasty, filling, and versatile.
Overall, this southern-style smothered cabbage and onions recipe offers many options for pairing depending on your tastes, dietary requirements, and preferences. It is perfect for any occasion ranging from casual family dinners to special events.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
A dish as delicious as this smothered cabbage and onions deserves a spot on your meal prep list. Fortunately, it’s easy to make ahead of time and stores well too! Here’s how to get the most out of your leftovers.
To make ahead:
Prepare according to the recipe instructions and let cool down completely. Transfer the smothered cabbage and onions to an airtight container, making sure to leave some room for expansion. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on low heat in a covered pot, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through.
To store:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you have any leftover potatoes or carrots, remove them before storing the cabbage and onions as they can become mushy when reheated.
To reheat:
If you have leftovers, reheat on low heat in a covered pot, stirring occasionally until heated through. For best results, add a splash of water or stock to keep the cabbage moist during reheating. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Some folks may find that this recipe tastes just as good or even better after sitting in the fridge overnight. The flavors have a chance to meld together more thoroughly which gives an extra depth of flavor that’s soul-warming.
In conclusion, preparing smothered cabbage and onions ahead is not only convenient but yields delicious results! So don’t hesitate to save some leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch or dinner – they’ll be worth it!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients for this soul food-inspired dish, it’s time to get cooking! Here are some tips and tricks to ensure perfect results:
1. Don’t overcook the cabbage: Cabbage is a delicate vegetable and can become mushy if overcooked. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat once it has reached your desired level of tenderness.
2. Use a variety of seasonings: This recipe calls for a range of spices, including chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasoning combinations until you find your perfect blend.
3. Add extra veggies: While this recipe is centered around cabbage and onions, that doesn’t mean you can’t add more vegetables to the mix. Carrots, bell peppers, and diced potatoes all make great additions that will add flavor and nutrition.
4. Use high-quality butter: This recipe calls for vegan butter, but if you’re not vegan, choose a high-quality butter made from grass-fed cows for added richness.
5. Cook over medium heat: To prevent burning or scorching the cabbage and onions, cook them over medium heat instead of high heat.
6. Let it rest: Once your smothered cabbage and onions are done cooking, let them rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
By following these tips and making some small adjustments to the recipe as needed based on your personal tastes and preferences, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying southern fried cabbage dish that you’ll be proud to serve at any family gathering or potluck event.
FAQ
Are you still yearning for more information about the smothered cabbage and onions recipe? Look no further, my friend! Here in section 9, frequently asked questions will be answered by the expert, yours truly. So whether this is your first time cooking this southern-style favorite or you’re a seasoned pro, read through for answers to some common inquiries that may arise.
How do you make Patti Labelle cabbage?
Let’s start by heating up some grapeseed oil in a big pot over medium-high heat. Then, let’s toss in the cabbage, onions, and bell peppers along with some seasoned stock, sea salt, seasoning salt, black pepper and cayenne. After that, we need to cover the pot and stir occasionally until the cabbage is delightfully wilted and tender. This usually takes around 10 minutes.
Why do you put vinegar in cabbage when boiling it?
To maintain the vivid purple hue of red cabbage, it’s essential to add a touch of vinegar during the cooking process. Without it, the cabbage’s color may shift to blue, which isn’t as visually appealing.
How long do you soak cabbage before cooking?
Now, let me tell y’all a little secret to prepare cabbage for cooking. Firstly, soak the cabbage in vinegar or saltwater for 15 minutes to release any creepy crawlies that might be hiding in its tightly packed leaves. Once soaked, rinse the cabbage with cold running water to remove any remaining dirt. To get the most out of your cabbage, you gotta remember to remove its core before shredding or cooking it. Easy as pie, right?
Can you prepare cabbage in advance?
When it comes to preparing cabbage for a recipe, it’s best to wash and chop, slice or shred it one to two days prior. To keep it fresh and crisp, store it in an airtight container or sealed bag in the refrigerator.
Bottom Line
:
In conclusion, this smothered cabbage and onions recipe is the perfect choice for a hearty and delicious southern-style meal. I hope that this recipe article has provided you with all the information you need to make this dish in your own kitchen.
Whether you are a vegetarian, a lover of soul food, or simply looking to add some variety to your usual menu, this recipe is sure to be a winner. With a rich blend of seasonings and ingredients such as cabbage, onion, and potatoes – this dish is packed full of flavor and nutrition.
So what are you waiting for? Head to your local grocery store or farmer’s market, grab the ingredients for this smothered cabbage and onions recipe, and let your culinary skills shine! I guarantee that this savory masterpiece will quickly become a favorite among your family and friends.
In summary, try out this Southern style meatless recipe for smothered cabbage and onions today – you won’t regret it!
Smothered Cabbage and Onions (Southern Style Meatless) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole cabbage
- 1 whole red onion
- 1/2 white onion
- 4 carrots
- 4 big potatoes
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons seasoning salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Dice onions, and all other ingredients chop into medium size pieces.
- Place in a medium to large size pot and cover 1/4 the way with water. Add all seasonings and cook on medium for about 30 minutes makings sure to stir every 15 miutes. Make sure you cook until tender.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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