Sauteed Cabbage with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe

Introduction

Sauteed cabbage is a simple, flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness and slight crunch of fresh cabbage. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a caramelized, savory dish perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 head green cabbage (~3 lb)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, but recommended)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 2 tsp sea salt, to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core. Slice the cabbage thinly and separate the slices into shreds.
2. Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a 12 or 13-inch pan with tall sides over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. If it doesn’t all fit at once, add it in batches, allowing each batch to wilt slightly before adding more. Sauté for 10-15 minutes, stirring every 1-2 minutes with tongs to encourage caramelization, but avoid constant stirring.
4. Step 4: During the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the butter and/or balsamic vinegar, if using, until the butter melts and the flavors combine.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a pleasant heat to the dish.
• Using a cast-iron skillet helps achieve better caramelization of the cabbage.
• For a richer flavor, substitute olive oil with bacon fat or add crispy bacon bits at the end.

Storage

Store leftover sauteed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or oil if it seems dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes, red cabbage works well and will give the dish a different color and a slightly sweeter flavor. Just follow the same cooking steps.

Do I need to add butter and balsamic vinegar?

No, both are optional. Butter adds richness, and balsamic vinegar provides a tangy sweetness, but the dish is delicious even without them.

Sauteed Cabbage with Garlic and Balsamic Recipe

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4.9 from 120 reviews

This Sauteed Cabbage recipe features tender, caramelized green cabbage cooked with garlic, olive oil, and optional butter and balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a healthy and delicious side dish perfect for any meal.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 head Green cabbage (~3 lb)
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Unsalted butter (optional, but recommended)
• 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 2 tsp Sea salt (to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage: Cut the cabbage into quarters, removing and discarding the core. Slice the cabbage thinly and separate the slices into shreds to ensure even cooking.
2. Heat the oil and garlic: Warm the olive oil in a large 12 or 13-inch sauté pan with tall sides over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant to release its aroma and flavor.
3. Add and cook the cabbage: Place the sliced cabbage into the pan. If your pan is not large enough to hold all the cabbage at once, add it in batches allowing the added cabbage to wilt slightly before adding more. Sauté the cabbage for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring with tongs every 1-2 minutes to promote caramelization while avoiding constant stirring so the cabbage can brown properly.
4. Finish with butter and balsamic: When the cabbage is nearly done, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add unsalted butter and/or balsamic vinegar, stirring until the butter is melted and the vinegar is well incorporated, which adds richness and a slight tang to the dish.
5. Season and serve: Remove the pan from heat and season the cabbage with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot as a flavorful and healthy side dish.

Notes

• For a vegan version, omit the butter or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
• Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Use a large pan to prevent overcrowding and ensure even sautéing.
• Adding balsamic vinegar is optional but helps enhance the savory-sweet flavor profile.
• This dish pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a light standalone meal.

Keywords: Sauteed cabbage, caramelized cabbage, healthy cabbage side dish, easy vegetable recipe, garlic cabbage