Cabbage and Potatoes: A Hearty and Healthy Recipe
This simple cabbage and potato recipe is a comforting classic, perfect for a weeknight meal. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 lbs potatoes: Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes all work well. Choose your favorite! Cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes.
- 1 large head of cabbage: About 2 lbs. Shredded cabbage provides a nice texture, but you can also chop it coarsely if preferred.
- 1 large onion: Diced. Adds a nice sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced. Garlic adds a pungent, savory kick.
- 4 slices bacon: Diced. Optional, but adds incredible richness and smoky flavor.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Or chicken broth, for a richer taste.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Or your preferred cooking oil.
- 1 tsp salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground is best!
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika: (Optional) Adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the bacon beautifully.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish (optional but recommended)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prep the ingredients: Wash and cut the potatoes into cubes. Shred or chop the cabbage. Dice the onion and bacon (if using). Mince the garlic.
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Cook the bacon (optional): In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the pot.
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Sauté the aromatics: Add the olive oil to the pot (or bacon grease). Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the potatoes and cabbage: Add the cubed potatoes and shredded cabbage to the pot. Stir to coat with the oil and onion mixture.
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Simmer in broth: Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the potatoes and cabbage are mostly submerged. Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Stir and serve: Stir in the crispy bacon (if using) and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add other vegetables: Carrots, celery, or other root vegetables would be delicious additions.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving.
- Use different herbs: Try thyme, rosemary, or sage instead of parsley.
Why This Recipe is Great for You:
This Cabbage and Potatoes recipe is a fantastic source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's also a budget-friendly meal that's easy to customize to your liking. The hearty nature of this dish makes it perfect for a chilly evening, and the simple preparation allows for easy weeknight cooking.
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