Description
This simple and classic Boiled Cabbage recipe brings out the natural sweetness and tender texture of cabbage with a quick boil in salted water, enhanced by optional bacon drippings or slices for added richness. Perfect as a healthy side dish, it’s ready in just 13 minutes and serves 8.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 head green cabbage (small)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Bacon drippings (optional, or 2 slices bacon)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Remove any discolored or damaged outer leaves from the cabbage head. Cut the cabbage in half, then cut each half into 1½-inch wedges. Keep the core intact so the wedges hold together during boiling.
- Boil Water with Flavor: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. If using bacon drippings or slices, add them to the boiling water to infuse the cabbage with smoky flavor.
- Cook the Cabbage: Carefully add the cabbage wedges to the boiling water and cook for 8 to 12 minutes, or just until they become tender but still hold their shape.
- Drain and Season: Drain the cabbage well to remove excess water. Drizzle the wedges with melted butter, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For a richer taste, use bacon drippings or fry the bacon slices and serve alongside.
- Be careful not to overcook the cabbage to avoid mushiness; it should be tender but still slightly firm.
- This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats and potatoes.
- To make it vegan, omit bacon and use olive oil or plant-based butter instead of dairy butter.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
