Smothered Cabbage Recipe: A Hearty Southern Comfort Classic
There’s something magical about the aroma of smothered cabbage simmering on the stove. For me, it’s more than just a hearty, delicious meal—it’s a reminder of Sunday dinners with family, where the air was thick with the smell of smoked meats and laughter. This smothered cabbage recipe is an explosion of flavor, with tender cabbage, smoked sausage, turkey, and bacon mingling with Creole spices. Serve it over steaming jasmine rice, and you’ve got yourself a dish that warms both the stomach and the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Smothered Cabbage Recipe
Smothered cabbage is a classic Southern comfort dish that combines simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful feast. It’s versatile, hearty, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a cold winter night or a lively family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this soul-soothing dish:
- Cabbage: 2 heads, chopped
- Bell Peppers: Green, red, and yellow, diced
- Yellow Onions: 2, sliced
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups, for tender cooking
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Red Potatoes: 6 small, quartered
- Bacon: 6 slices, for flavor and grease
- Smoked Sausage: 2 links, sliced
- Smoked Turkey: 1 leg, shredded
- Corned Beef: 1 small brisket, cooked and flash-fried
- Seasonings: Creole seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Hot jasmine rice for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the bell peppers and slice the onions. Mince the garlic and quarter the red potatoes.
- Boil the corned beef until tender, then slice and flash-fry for extra flavor.
2. Fry the Bacon and Saute the Veggies
- In a large skillet, fry the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the grease in the pan.
- In the bacon grease, sauté the bell peppers and onions until softened. Add the garlic last to avoid burning. Remove the vegetables and set them aside.
3. Cook the Meats
- Using the same pan, brown the smoked sausage and smoked turkey until they develop a golden, caramelized color. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the Cabbage and Combine
- In a large pot, add the chicken broth and cabbage. Cook over medium heat until the cabbage begins to soften.
- Stir in the sautéed vegetables, garlic, and red potatoes. Season with Creole seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the Meats
- Gently fold in the bacon, smoked sausage, smoked turkey, and corned beef. Allow everything to simmer together, letting the flavors meld. Adjust seasonings to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve your smothered cabbage over a bed of hot jasmine rice. Enjoy the rich, smoky flavors with every bite!
Pro Tips for the Best Smothered Cabbage
- Don’t skip the bacon grease: It adds depth of flavor to the vegetables and brings the dish together.
- Cook low and slow: Letting the cabbage simmer ensures it absorbs all the savory goodness.
- Make it your own: Add a touch of heat with cayenne pepper or a splash of vinegar for tanginess.
A Taste of Comfort
This smothered cabbage recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The smoky meats, tender cabbage, and bold spices come together in a way that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to be a hit.
So, grab your biggest pot, gather your family around the table, and enjoy this timeless Southern classic. It’s comfort food at its finest.
