Boiled Cabbage Recipes

Sally Mckenney

Craving a healthy, comforting, and budget-friendly dish? These Boiled Cabbage Recipes are the perfect side or main dish to bring warmth and flavor to your table. From Southern-style cabbage with smoked turkey to buttered cabbage and even German-inspired versions, this humble vegetable transforms into a delicious, versatile meal in less than an hour.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4

Course: Main Dish, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Southern, German, Global

Calories: 150

Ingredients Video Notes

Ingredients

Core Ingredients (Base for Most Recipes)

1 medium green cabbage (about 2 lbs), chopped into wedges or shreds
6–8 cups water or broth (chicken, vegetable, or beef for more flavor)
1–2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper

Flavor Variations

Easy and Delicious Buttered Cabbage Add extra butter, garlic, and a pinch of paprika.
Boiled Cabbage with Bacon: Fry 4–6 slices of bacon, then boil the cabbage in the bacon drippings
South African Style Creamed Cabbage: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon flour for a silky finish.
Loaded Boiled Cabbage: Add diced potatoes, carrots, and sausage chunks.
Boiled Cabbage with Pierogies and Sausage: Toss boiled cabbage with pan-fried pierogies and kielbasa.
Southern Cabbage with Smoked Turkey: Simmer cabbage with smoked turkey wings or drumsticks for rich, smoky flavor.
Slow Cooked Boiled Cabbage: Place cabbage, broth, onions, and seasonings in a slow cooker for 4–6 hours.
Black Folks’ Southern Cabbage: Use collard-style seasoning with onions, garlic, smoked paprika, and ham hocks.
Aunt Rocky’s German-Style Boiled Cabbage: Add apple cider vinegar, sugar, and caraway seeds for tangy flavor.
Crock-Pot Buttered Boiled Cabbage: Toss cabbage with butter and broth in a crock-pot, cook on low for 6 hours.

Video

Notes

Required Kitchen Tools

Cooking boiled cabbage recipes doesn't require a lot of fancy equipment, but having the right tools makes the process easier and more enjoyable:

Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven: Essential for boiling cabbage evenly.
Sharp Chef's Knife: To chop the cabbage into wedges or shreds.
Cutting Board: A sturdy board for prepping your veggies and meats.
Wooden Spoon or Tongs: To stir and serve the cabbage without breaking it apart.
Colander or Strainer: Useful if you want to drain excess water after boiling.
Slow Cooker or Crock-Pot (optional): Perfect for set-and-forget versions.
Serving Bowl: To present your cabbage dish beautifully at the table.