As the clock strikes midnight to ring in the new year, many cultures around the world rely on traditional dishes to bring good fortune and prosperity. One vegetable that plays a starring role in many of these celebrations is cabbage. This versatile cruciferous superstar can be cooked in countless ways, from sweet and sour to savory and spicy. Whether you’re looking for a hearty soup or a side dish to impress your guests, we’ve got you covered with 18 delicious cabbage recipes perfect for your New Year’s celebration.
From braised red cabbage with apples and bacon to classic sauerkraut with pork, these dishes are sure to bring in the new year with a bang. So go ahead, get cooking, and may the luck of the cabbage be with you!
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Bacon
This sweet and savory dish combines tender red cabbage, caramelized apples, and crispy bacon, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful side dish that pairs well with roasted meats, sausages, or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 apples (Granny Smith or similar), peeled and chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon; set aside.
3. Add the butter, honey, salt, and pepper to the same skillet. Stir until the butter is melted.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sweet mixture.
5. Cover the skillet and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Add the chopped apples and cooked bacon to the skillet; stir to combine.
7. Continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the apples are caramelized.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic New Year’s Sauerkraut with Pork
Ring in the new year with a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the tanginess of sauerkraut with the richness of pork. This classic recipe is a staple for many New Year’s celebrations, providing a delicious and comforting start to the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the pork strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sauerkraut, onion, garlic, caraway seeds, salt, pepper, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 2 hours or until the pork is tender and the sauerkraut is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cabbage and Kielbasa Soup
This comforting soup combines the sweetness of sautéed cabbage with the savory flavor of kielbasa sausage, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot; cook until wilted, about 7-8 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked kielbasa back into the pot; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce
A classic Eastern European dish, stuffed cabbage rolls are a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground beef and rice, served in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then submerge the cabbage head. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until leaves are soft and pliable.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay out a cabbage leaf flat, place about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture in the center, and fold the cabbage over to form a roll. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cabbage rolls seam-side down and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes each.
6. Transfer the rolls to a baking dish, cover with tomato sauce, and bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Asian-Inspired Stir-Fried Cabbage
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that highlights the crunch and sweetness of cabbage, with a hint of Asian spices. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 4-5 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Pour the sauce over the cabbage mixture and stir-fry until the cabbage is tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cabbage and Potato Gratin
A creamy, comforting side dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or as a accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in butter until softened.
3. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, boil the potato slices until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of cabbage mixture, potatoes, and grated cheese.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the gratin is heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Kimchi for New Year’s Luck
As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, many cultures believe that eating spicy foods can bring good luck and fortune. In Korean tradition, kimchi is a staple dish served to usher in the new year with a burst of flavor and energy.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs napa cabbage, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons coarse salt
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage and coarse salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage for 5 minutes.
2. Rinse the cabbage in cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. In a blender or food processor, blend chili flakes, garlic, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine blended mixture and cabbage. Mix well.
5. Pack kimchi into jars, leaving 1 inch of space at the top. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This spicy kimchi is ready to eat immediately, but it will continue to ferment and develop flavor over time.
German-Style Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines tender cabbage, savory sausage, and aromatic spices for a satisfying one-pot meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 pound German-style sausage (such as Bratwurst or Knockwurst), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage mixture.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Cabbage and Carrot Slaw
This refreshing slaw is a perfect side dish or topping for your favorite meals. With its crunchy texture and sweet flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (hands-off time only)
Slow-Cooked Corned Beef and Cabbage
Savor the classic flavors of Ireland with this comforting slow-cooked dish that’s easy to prepare and tenderly cooked. This recipe yields a rich, flavorful corned beef and cabbage that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs corned beef brisket
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of beer (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the corned beef in a slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, sliced onion, and minced garlic on top of the corned beef.
3. If using beer, pour it over the ingredients.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the corned beef from the slow cooker and slice against the grain.
7. Serve with the cooked cabbage and juices.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Cabbage and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A simple and flavorful stir-fry that combines the earthy sweetness of mushrooms with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until it’s slightly wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cabbage with Raisins
This classic Eastern European dish combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the tanginess of vinegar, all wrapped up with plump raisins. A perfect side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of white vinegar
– 1/4 cup of raisins
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shredded cabbage and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Mix in the brown sugar, vinegar, and raisins. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cabbage and Bacon Fried Rice
Get ready to transform leftover rice into a savory and satisfying meal with this simple recipe that combines the sweetness of cabbage with the smokiness of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the rice is well coated with oil and combined with the cabbage mixture.
6. Add the cooked bacon back into the pan and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Russian Cabbage Soup (Shchi)
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple of Russian cuisine, made with tender cabbage, flavorful beef, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cold winter’s day, Shchi warms the soul and fills the belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 pound beef brisket or shank, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage, caraway seeds, bay leaf, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Return the beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Savory Cabbage Pancakes
Savory Cabbage Pancakes: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Pancakes!
These savory cabbage pancakes are a great way to use up leftover cabbage and make a tasty and nutritious snack or side dish. With the addition of garlic, onions, and cheese, these pancakes have a rich and satisfying flavor.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together cheese, scallions, and garlic.
3. Add the wet ingredients (egg and milk) to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the cheese mixture.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Pickled Cabbage for Good Fortune
In many Asian cultures, pickling vegetables is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. This simple recipe for quick pickled cabbage is a great way to add some luck to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, salt, and black pepper. Massage the mixture with your hands for about 5 minutes to help break down the cabbage fibers.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
3. Pour the pickling liquid over the cabbage mixture, making sure all the cabbage is covered.
4. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator)
Cabbage and Lentil Stew
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious stew, perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of tender lentils, sweet caramelized cabbage, and aromatic spices will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to caramelize.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Cabbage Wedges with Garlic Butter
Elevate your mealtime with this simple and flavorful recipe for roasted cabbage wedges smothered in garlic butter. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the cabbage into 6-8 wedges, removing the core.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cabbage wedges with salt, pepper, and minced garlic until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cabbage wedges in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with additional minced garlic to taste.
7. Remove the cabbage from the oven and brush with garlic butter.
8. Return the cabbage to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the butter is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Ring in the new year with these 18 delicious cabbage recipes! From classic sauerkraut to savory pancakes, and from hearty stews to quick pickles, there’s something for everyone. Try Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Bacon or Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce for a comforting main course. Or, add some Asian flair with Stir-Fried Cabbage or make a statement with Spicy Kimchi for good luck. Whatever your taste buds desire, these cabbage recipes are sure to bring joy and nourishment to your New Year’s celebration!
