Fried Cabbage Sausage: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Fried Cabbage Sausage: a humble dish, elevated to a symphony of savory flavors! Have you ever craved something comforting, quick, and undeniably delicious? Then look no further. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a culinary experience that will have you coming back for seconds, guaranteed.

While its exact origins are debated, fried cabbage and sausage is a staple in many cultures, particularly those with strong Eastern European influences. Think of it as a rustic, hearty meal passed down through generations, a testament to resourcefulness and the power of simple ingredients. It’s a dish that speaks of family gatherings, cozy kitchens, and the satisfying warmth of a home-cooked meal.

What makes fried cabbage sausage so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures: the slight crispness of the cabbage, the juicy snap of the sausage, and the tender, caramelized onions. The savory, slightly smoky flavor profile is incredibly satisfying, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and filling meal on the table in under 30 minutes. So, let’s get cooking and discover the magic of this classic dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of green cabbage (about 2-3 pounds), cored and shredded
• 1 pound smoked sausage (kielbasa, andouille, or your favorite), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

Preparing the Cabbage and Sausage:

1. First, let’s get the cabbage ready. Remove the outer leaves if they are wilted or damaged. Cut the cabbage in half through the core. Then, cut each half into quarters and remove the core from each quarter. Shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline. If you’re using a knife, slice the cabbage thinly. Don’t worry about it being perfectly uniform; some variation in size is fine.
2. Next, prepare the sausage. I like to use smoked kielbasa for this recipe because it adds a wonderful smoky flavor, but you can use any smoked sausage you prefer. Andouille sausage will give it a spicier kick. Slice the sausage into rounds about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness allows the sausage to brown nicely without becoming too dry.
3. Now, let’s chop the onion. Peel the onion and cut it in half from top to bottom. Place one half flat-side down on your cutting board and make horizontal cuts, almost all the way through but leaving the root end intact. Then, make vertical cuts, again almost all the way through. Finally, slice across the onion to create diced pieces.
4. Mince the garlic. Peel the garlic cloves and either mince them finely with a knife or use a garlic press. Mincing the garlic ensures that its flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Cooking the Fried Cabbage and Sausage:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the cabbage without overcrowding it. If you overcrowd the pan, the cabbage will steam instead of fry.
2. Add the sliced sausage to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on both sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The sausage should release some of its flavorful fat into the pan, which will help to cook the cabbage. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; these bits add a lot of flavor.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
5. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. You may need to add it in batches if you have a lot of cabbage. Stir the cabbage to coat it with the oil and onions.
6. Season the cabbage with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Be generous with the salt and pepper, as cabbage can be a bit bland on its own. The smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky flavor, and the red pepper flakes provide a touch of heat.
7. Add the caraway seeds (if using). I highly recommend using caraway seeds, as they add a distinctive and delicious flavor that complements the cabbage and sausage perfectly.
8. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. The apple cider vinegar adds a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. The brown sugar also helps the cabbage to caramelize and brown.
9. Add the chicken broth to the skillet. This will help to steam the cabbage and keep it from drying out.
10. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and wilted. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the cabbage and the heat of your stove. Check the cabbage periodically and add more chicken broth if needed to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
11. Once the cabbage is tender, remove the lid and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is browned and caramelized. This will take another 10-15 minutes. The browning process is important because it adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
12. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Heat through for a few minutes.

Serving the Fried Cabbage and Sausage:

1. Taste the fried cabbage and sausage and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or apple cider vinegar to taste.
2. Serve the fried cabbage and sausage hot. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
3. This dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with mashed potatoes, pierogies, or crusty bread.

Tips and Variations:

• Add other vegetables: You can add other vegetables to this dish, such as carrots, bell peppers, or potatoes. Add the carrots and potatoes along with the onions, and add the bell peppers a few minutes before the cabbage.
• Use different types of sausage: As mentioned before, you can use any type of smoked sausage you like. Polish kielbasa, andouille sausage, or even chorizo would all be delicious.
• Make it vegetarian: To make this dish vegetarian, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some smoked tofu or tempeh for a smoky flavor.
• Add a touch of spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish.
• Make it ahead of time: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors actually meld together even more as it sits.
• Use bacon: For an extra layer of flavor, cook a few slices of bacon in the skillet before adding the sausage. Remove the bacon and crumble it over the cabbage before serving.
• Deglaze with beer: Instead of chicken broth, try deglazing the pan with a dark beer like a stout or porter. This will add a rich, malty flavor to the dish.
• Add mustard: A spoonful of Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard added towards the end of cooking can add a tangy and complex flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork chops, or steak.
• Serve as a main course with a side of mashed potatoes or pierogies.
• Serve on top of crusty bread for a hearty sandwich.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover fried cabbage and sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little bit of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The savory sausage, the tender cabbage, and that hint of caramelized sweetness – trust me, this Fried Cabbage Sausage recipe is a total game-changer. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s packed with comforting flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. I know, I know, you might be thinking, “Cabbage? Really?” But believe me, once you try this, you’ll be a convert. The frying process transforms the humble cabbage into something truly special, bringing out its natural sweetness and creating a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with the savory sausage. But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Smoked sausage adds a wonderful depth of flavor, while Italian sausage brings a touch of spice. For a leaner option, try using turkey sausage or even chicken sausage. You can also add other vegetables to the mix. Sliced bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms would be fantastic additions. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will give it a nice kick. Looking for serving suggestions? This Fried Cabbage Sausage is delicious on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal. But it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a simple side salad would be perfect accompaniments. For a truly comforting meal, serve it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. And if you have any leftovers (which I highly doubt!), they’re fantastic in omelets or breakfast burritos the next day. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover cabbage you might have in the fridge. It’s also budget-friendly, which is always a win in my book! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Fried Cabbage Sausage is a must-try for anyone who loves simple, flavorful, and satisfying meals.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what variations you tried, what sides you served it with, and what your family thought. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you make it spicier? Did you discover a new favorite sausage to use? Your feedback is invaluable and helps other readers discover new ways to enjoy this delicious dish. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your Fried Cabbage Sausage adventures! Print