Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish
Creamed Cabbage is a delightfully creamy and comforting Irish side dish that perfectly balances the fresh, tender taste of cabbage with rich, buttery goodness. Imagine a plate of savory goodness featuring tender cabbage wedges, lightly browned for a hint of char, all enveloped in a velvety light cream. This dish is not just about nourishment; it’s a warm hug on a plate that transports you to a cozy Irish kitchen.
Table of Contents
I first encountered this gem at a friend’s Irish-themed dinner party, and it quickly became a staple in my home. The simplicity and ease of preparing creamed cabbage make it a weekly favorite, whether we’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet family dinner. Plus, it can easily pair with any main dish, from roasted meats to hearty stews. It’s so delicious, you’ll want to have it on repeat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: This dish comes together in about 15 minutes, making it a fast and easy side for any meal.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sautéed cabbage and light cream creates a rich, comforting dish that’s both sweet and savory.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: With its vibrant green color and creamy texture, this dish certainly stands out on the table.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even as a delicious leftover snack.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for various dietary preferences by substituting light cream with plant-based alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup butter: This adds a rich, creamy flavor to the dish. Unsalted butter is preferred to control the salt content.
- 1/2 tsp. salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage and balances the flavors. Adjust to taste.
- 1 medium head of cabbage: Fresh green or Savoy cabbage works best. Look for heads that are firm and compact for the best texture.
- 1/4-1/2 cup light cream: For a luxurious creaminess. Half-and-half can be used as a substitute for a lighter option.
- Freshly ground pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity. Freshly ground provides the best flavor.
How to Make Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish
Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant. This sets a flavorful base for your cabbage.
Sauté Cabbage: Add the cabbage wedges carefully to the skillet. Cover and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the edges start to brown or char slightly. The browning adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Turn and Brown Again: Carefully turn the cabbage wedges over, allowing the other side to brown for an additional 3-4 minutes. Look for a beautiful golden color and that somewhat charred edge that beckons the taste buds.
Add Cream: Pour in 1/4-1/2 cup light cream, ensuring all the cabbage is lightly coated. Stir it gently and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the cream thickens slightly, creating a luscious sauce.
Season: Finally, sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. The cooking process enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage, making every bite sublime.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they should last for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, occasionally stirring until heated through. Be cautious, as the texture may change slightly, but adding a splash of cream can help restore its creaminess.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Ensure your cabbage is chopped into uniform wedges for even cooking.
- If your cream isn’t thickening, it might need a bit more time on the heat.
- Want more flavor? Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vinegar for an extra zing.
- Feel free to make this a day ahead; warming it back up allows the flavors to deepen wonderfully.
- If you have leftovers, consider adding them to a scramble or using them in a savory omelet for breakfast.
Creamed Cabbage is not just a dish you serve; it’s one you cherish. It brings warmth and comfort to the table while showcasing the beauty of simple, quality ingredients. Embrace this easy Irish side dish and feel free to experiment with different seasonings or accompaniments. You will find yourself reaching for it more often than you thought possible.
Recipe FAQs
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can use a plant-based butter and a dairy-free cream (like cashew cream or coconut cream) to keep this dish creamy while making it suitable for dairy-free dietary needs.
Can I use frozen cabbage for this dish?
While fresh cabbage works best due to its texture and flavor, if you’re in a pinch, you can thaw frozen cabbage. Just note that it may be softer after cooking.
What can I serve with creamed cabbage?
Creamed Cabbage pairs beautifully with roasted meats such as chicken or pork, and hearty dishes like beef stew or corned beef for an Irish touch.
How can I enhance its flavor?
For more depth, sauté some chopped onions or garlic in the butter before adding the cabbage. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten it up!
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📖 Recipe Card
Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish
- Prep Time: N/A
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Creamed Cabbage is a delightful Irish side dish with a rich flavor that elevates any meal. Featuring cabbage, butter, and light cream, this recipe is quick to prepare and adds a touch of comfort to your dining experience. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it’s simple yet satisfying for those seeking homemade goodness.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1 medium head of cabbage (cut into small wedges)
- 1/4–1/2 cup light cream
- freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large skillet.
- Add the cabbage to the skillet, cover, and sauté until slightly browned or charred, about 4-5 minutes.
- Carefully turn the cabbage over to brown the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the light cream and heat until slightly thickened, approximately 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Notes
Ensure the cabbage is cut into small wedges for even cooking.
Adjust the amount of cream based on your desired thickness.
Serving with additional pepper enhances the flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
