As the clock strikes midnight on January 1st, people around the world gather to celebrate the start of a new year. In many cultures, it’s believed that certain foods can bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. One such food is cabbage – a humble vegetable packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a traditional New Year’s dish or just a delicious way to enjoy this versatile veggie, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 18 mouthwatering cabbage recipes to add some excitement to your New Year’s celebration: from braised red cabbage with apples and bacon to fermented sauerkraut for good luck. With these tasty ideas, you’ll be counting down the minutes until midnight in no time!
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Bacon
This sweet and savory side dish is a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or as a topping for burgers. The combination of tender red cabbage, crispy bacon, and tender apples creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
• 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 6 slices of apple (Granny Smith or Braeburn work well)
• 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of butter
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the sliced red cabbage to the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften.
4. Add the apple slices, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and butter until well combined.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cabbage and Sausage Stir-Fry
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this simple stir-fry brings together the sweetness of cabbage and the savory taste of sausage. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 sausages (any type you prefer), sliced into coins
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or oyster sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir to combine with the cabbage.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or oyster sauce (if using).
7. Cook for an additional minute to allow flavors to meld together.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
New Year’s Lucky Cabbage Soup
Ring in the new year with a bowl of good fortune! This hearty soup is a traditional Chinese New Year’s dish that brings prosperity and positivity to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup cooked noodles or rice for added texture
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped cabbage and stir-fry until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in broth, water, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Savory Cabbage and Potato Pancakes
Transform shredded cabbage and potatoes into crispy pancakes filled with flavor. Perfect as a side dish or main course, these savory pancakes are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated potatoes, chopped onion, eggs, and flour. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop pancake mixture into the skillet.
5. Flatten slightly with a spatula and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Slow-Cooked Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef
These hearty cabbage rolls are filled with ground beef and simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, making for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage head, then slice it into thin strips.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add the cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Blanch the cabbage strips in boiling water for 30 seconds, then rinse under cold running water.
6. Assemble the cabbage rolls by placing about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto a cabbage strip, folding it over to form a roll, and securing with toothpicks if needed.
7. Place the rolls seam-side down in the slow cooker, pouring the crushed tomatoes and beef broth over them.
8. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice with Cabbage
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fried rice! This Korean-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of kimchi, savory pork, and crunchy cabbage to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup diced cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup diced cooked pork (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and cabbage. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the kimchi, soy sauce, and cooked pork (if using). Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to combine.
4. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula, until the rice is well coated with the flavors.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Sautéed Cabbage
Transform ordinary cabbage into a flavorful side dish with this simple recipe! With the rich flavors of garlic and butter, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced cabbage to the pan, stirring to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Coleslaw with a Tangy Twist
This recipe adds a zesty kick to the classic creamy coleslaw, perfect for topping burgers or accompanying grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey.
2. Mix until the slaw is well coated with the creamy dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Enjoy your tangy and creamy coleslaw!
Roasted Cabbage Steaks with Parmesan
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that transforms cabbage into a crispy, cheesy delight. Perfect as a side dish or even a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the cabbage into 1-inch thick slabs, creating “steaks”.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the cabbage steaks with the oil mixture.
5. Place the steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each steak.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of each steak during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
8. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Cabbage Leaves with Quinoa and Mushrooms
Stuffed Cabbage Leaves with Quinoa and Mushrooms: A Hearty and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, blanched and leaves separated
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, and thyme; cook until mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa, salt, and pepper.
5. Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking.
6. Assemble the stuffed cabbage leaves by placing a spoonful of the quinoa mixture onto the center of each leaf. Fold the leaf over the filling and secure with toothpicks, if needed.
7. Place the stuffed cabbage leaves seam-side down in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cabbage Stir-Fry
This sweet and sour cabbage stir-fry is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that combines the crunch of fresh cabbage with the tanginess of a sweet and sour sauce. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet and sour sauce and soy sauce. Pour over the cabbage mixture and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Citrus Dressing
This slaw is a perfect combination of crunchy and tangy, making it a great side dish or topping for your favorite meals. The citrus dressing adds a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the carrots and the crunch of the cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until the slaw is evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
One-Pot Cabbage and Kielbasa Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of sweet caramelized cabbage, savory kielbasa sausage, and tender vegetables, all cooked to perfection in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the kielbasa over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cabbage and caraway seeds; cook until cabbage is slightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add cooked kielbasa back to the pot, along with diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw, this crunchy salad combines the sweetness of carrots and apples with the savory flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of napa cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Baked Cabbage Casserole with Cheese
A delicious and comforting side dish that combines tender cabbage, crispy breadcrumbs, and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 shredded cabbage to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and grated cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Layer the cooked cabbage mixture, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, in the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fermented Sauerkraut for Good Luck
Bringing good fortune into your life with every bite! This classic German recipe is a simple and rewarding way to create a delicious, probiotic-rich condiment that’s perfect for topping sausages, salads, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 5 lbs (2.3 kg) cabbage, shredded
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
– 1 gallon (4L) water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the cabbage with your hands until it starts to release its juices.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sea salt and caraway seeds (if using).
3. Add the salt mixture to the cabbage and stir until the cabbage is evenly coated.
4. Pack the cabbage mixture into a clean glass jar or crock, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets.
5. Pour the water over the cabbage, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space at the top.
6. Cover the jar or crock with cheesecloth or a breathable cloth and let it ferment at room temperature for 3-4 weeks.
Cooking Time: None!
Quick Pickled Cabbage for New Year’s Snacking
Ring in the new year with a tangy and crunchy snack that’s easy to make! This quick pickled cabbage recipe is perfect for munching on while watching the ball drop.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5 minutes to help soften it.
2. Rinse the cabbage under cold running water to remove excess salt. Drain well and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pack the cabbage into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cabbage, making sure it’s completely covered.
5. Let the pickles cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled, at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Warm Cabbage and Bacon Salad with Mustard Dressing
A hearty and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of caramelized cabbage with the smokiness of crispy bacon, all tied together with a tangy mustard dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Add the olive oil to the same skillet and sauté the sliced cabbage for 5-7 minutes, or until caramelized.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard.
6. Toss the cooked cabbage with the bacon, salt, and pepper.
7. Drizzle the mustard dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Ring in the new year with a delicious twist on traditional cabbage recipes! From hearty soups to crispy slaws, these 18 mouth-watering dishes will make your New Year’s celebration unforgettable. Try braising red cabbage with apples and bacon for a sweet and savory flavor combination, or opt for spicy kimchi fried rice with cabbage for an Asian-inspired treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping main course, there’s something on this list for everyone.
