Creamed cabbage is a comforting, classic dish that is both simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying. This versatile recipe makes a perfect side dish for a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrées. The creamy sauce beautifully complements the tender cabbage, creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking to add more vegetables to your diet or searching for a new favorite side dish, creamed cabbage is an excellent choice. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making this delightful dish, and we’ll also explore the nutritional benefits of the main ingredients.
Ingredients for Easy and Delicious Creamed Cabbage Recipe
To make this tasty creamed cabbage, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Creamed Cabbage:
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Easy and Delicious Creamed Cabbage Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by removing any outer leaves from the cabbage that may be wilted or damaged. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and then thinly slice each quarter. Rinse the sliced cabbage under cold water and drain well. This step ensures that the cabbage is clean and ready for cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. The combination of onion and garlic forms a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the cabbage, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften, about 8-10 minutes. The cabbage should become tender but still retain a bit of its texture.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
While the cabbage is cooking, prepare the cream sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and all-purpose flour until smooth. The flour will help thicken the sauce as it cooks. Pour this mixture over the cabbage in the skillet, stirring well to combine.
Step 5: Simmer the Cabbage
Reduce the heat to low and let the cabbage simmer in the cream sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and coat the cabbage, creating a luscious, creamy texture. If you like, you can add a pinch of ground nutmeg at this stage for a subtle hint of warmth and spice.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the creamed cabbage and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Once the cabbage is tender and the sauce is thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the creamed cabbage to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately as a side dish to complement your main course.
About the Main Ingredients
Cabbage
Cabbage is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. It is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, which are essential for immune function and bone health, respectively. It also contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, cabbage is low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a nutritious and filling vegetable without consuming too many calories.
Onions
Onions are a staple in many kitchens around the world due to their versatility and flavor-enhancing qualities. They are a good source of vitamins C and B6, folate, and potassium. Onions also contain antioxidants and compounds like quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. In this recipe, onions add a depth of flavor to the creamy sauce, making the dish more aromatic and delicious.
Garlic
Garlic is well-known for its potent flavor and numerous health benefits. It contains compounds like allicin, which have been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Garlic is also rich in vitamins C and B6, manganese, and selenium. Its strong flavor adds a wonderful depth to the creamed cabbage, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Heavy Cream and Whole Milk
Heavy cream and whole milk are key ingredients in creating the creamy sauce for this dish. Heavy cream, with its high-fat content, adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce. It also helps to thicken the sauce, making it luxurious and indulgent. Whole milk provides a balanced creaminess without being overly rich. Both ingredients contribute to the smooth and creamy consistency that makes this dish so comforting and satisfying.
Butter
Butter is used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding a rich and savory flavor to the dish. It also helps to create a smooth base for the cream sauce. Butter is a source of healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. In moderation, butter can be part of a balanced diet, providing flavor and essential nutrients.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour is used as a thickening agent in the cream sauce. When whisked with the heavy cream and whole milk, it helps to create a smooth and velvety sauce that clings to the cabbage. Flour is a common ingredient in many sauces and gravies, providing the desired consistency and texture.
