Get your greens in a fun way with this buttery dish topped with crispy bacon.
For the past few years, I’ve tried cabbage in countless ways—some cooked, some raw. But only recently, as I prepare to make my move down South, have I learned about the recipes I’ve been missing out on. Southern cabbage is one of those recipes, with its almost effortless execution and delectable results. It’s a brilliant and easy innovation to cook the cabbage in butter, garlic, and broth. The cabbage softens and soaks up all the fabulous flavors, turning out shiny and delicious.
If you and your family are searching for an enjoyable way to consume cabbage, then try this recipe! It takes a plain leafy green and turns it into a tender, savory dish with a hint of heat. Southern cabbage might be simple and even quick to make, yet it’s anything but boring. I look forward to cooking it in my new South Carolina kitchen this winter! Will you join me in spirit?
What makes this dish “Southern”?
Southern cabbage gets its name from the American South, where it’s served in many different states. From the Bible Belt to the Mexican border, Southern cabbage permeates the culinary culture as a simple, easy, and delicious dish for picnics and at-home dinners alike. As I’ve been talking to my housemate—who was born and raised in the Carolinas—about food, he told me that folks down South love to put butter on everything. This recipe is an emblem of that, and it leads to a luscious dish that tastes unlike any other cabbage recipe I’ve had.
How do I store leftovers?
Let your Southern cabbage cool to room temperature, and then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, taking note that it might just taste even better within that time. That’s because all the flavors mix and mingle, settling into the cabbage nicely. You can either serve it cold or stir-fry it quickly in a pan on the stove with a splash of oil.
Serving suggestions
If your goal is to bring this dish to a friendly neighborhood potluck, then make sure it’s served alongside BBQ Baked Beans, Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast or Smoked Pork Chops, and Campfire Potatoes. Oh, and don’t forget some classic Southern Biscuits or Corn Bread Muffins. These delectable dishes turn any gathering, indoor or outdoor, into a grand party!
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 2/3 cups chicken broth
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- Paprika, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Remove the tough outer leaves and core from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into quarters and then slice each quarter into 1-inch wide strips.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Add the sliced cabbage along with salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Stir to coat evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes until the cabbage is tender. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- If using, mix in the crumbled bacon during the last couple minutes of cooking so it can heat through. Sprinkle with paprika when serving.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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