Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish
Creamed cabbage is a wonderfully simple yet deeply satisfying side dish that celebrates the beauty of vegetables without overwhelming them. This rustic dish, often found in Irish homes, showcases tender cabbage cooked to perfection, enhanced with rich butter and cream. In just 15 minutes, you can transform a humble head of cabbage into something truly special. The creamy texture paired with a touch of sweetness from the sautéing process elevates this dish beyond ordinary greens, making it a fantastic accompaniment to any meal. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, creamed cabbage is sure to win hearts.
Table of Contents
The first time I made creamed cabbage, I was pleasantly surprised by how satisfying such a simple dish could be. I felt like I had struck gold when I discovered how quickly it could come together and how versatile it was. This recipe takes the often-overlooked cabbage and highlights its natural sweetness while maintaining a delightful crunch. It doesn’t just taste amazing; it also plays well with so many main dishes, whether it’s roasted meats, hearty stews, or grilled fish. The ease of preparation and the incredible flavor are just a couple of reasons to give this dish a try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: It comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an easy weeknight side.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery richness and creamy texture makes every bite delicious.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green of the cabbage, paired with the cream, looks beautiful on any plate.
- Flexible Serving: This dish is perfect for festive occasions or cozy family dinners alike.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for various dietary restrictions by using dairy alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup butter: This adds a rich flavor and helps to sauté the cabbage until golden. Feel free to substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
- 1/2 tsp. salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage and balances flavors.
- 1 medium head of cabbage: Look for a fresh head, as its natural sweetness shines through in this dish. Green cabbage is most commonly used, but savoy cabbage works beautifully too.
- 1/4-1/2 cup light cream: Adds a luscious creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or coconut cream could suffice.
- Freshly ground pepper: For a little kick, freshly ground pepper elevates the dish’s flavors significantly.
How to Make Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish
Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter until it’s fragrant but not browned. This is the base of your dish, so make sure it’s just warm enough to sizzle when the cabbage hits the pan.
Sauté Cabbage: Add the cut wedges of 1 medium head of cabbage to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with melted butter. Cover with a lid and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly browned or even charred. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
Turn and Sauté: Carefully turn the cabbage wedges over, allowing them to brown on the other side. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t overcook. The aim is a delicious char while maintaining a bit of crunch.
Add Cream: Pour in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of light cream. Stir gently, ensuring every wedge is coated. Let it heat for about 2 minutes until it slightly thickens. This creamy touch ties everything together beautifully.
Season: Finally, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. of salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the seasoning according to your preference, ensuring that each bite is as delightful as the last.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover creamed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’re hoping to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a suitable container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or a little butter to refresh its creamy consistency.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking; cabbage can turn mushy if left too long on the heat.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; wilted cabbage won’t yield the same results.
- If you find the taste a bit bland, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright contrast.
- For variety, consider adding some sautéed onions or garlic when melting your butter; it enhances the base flavor beautifully.
- This dish can easily be made ahead of time; just reheat and enjoy!
Creamed cabbage is a delightful, creamy side dish that offers so much flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re having a quiet family dinner or preparing for a special occasion, this recipe fits perfectly into any setting. It encourages creativity, inviting you to experiment with flavors and garnishes. With its luscious texture and enticing aroma, everyone at the table is sure to enjoy.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional, both savoy and Napa cabbage can also be used, adding unique textures and flavors. Savoy has a slightly sweeter taste and tender leaves, while Napa is milder and perfect for creaming.
Is there a non-dairy alternative to the light cream?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or any other non-dairy cream alternatives. Cashew cream also works wonderfully, giving a rich, creamy texture while maintaining that delicious taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re in the mood for a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the cream. This gives the dish a lovely heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cabbage.
What can I pair creamed cabbage with?
Creamed cabbage pairs wonderfully with various dishes! Consider serving it alongside roasted meats like chicken or pork, grilled fish, or even hearty vegetarian dishes. It complements robust flavors well.
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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: Side Dishes
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Creamed Cabbage is a delightful side dish that combines tender cabbage with rich cream and butter, creating a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. Perfect for quick dinners or comforting meals, this easy recipe brings together just a few ingredients for maximum taste.
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 butter in a large skillet.
- Add cabbage, cover, and sauté until slightly browned or charred for about 4-5 minutes.
- Carefully turn the cabbage over and brown the other side for 3-4 minutes.
- Add cream to the skillet and heat until slightly thickened for about 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Adjust the amount of cream based on desired richness.
Pair with meats or serve as part of a vegetarian meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
