As the weather turns chilly, there’s no better way to warm up than with a hearty serving of comforting Irish cabbage dishes. In this article, we’re diving into the world of cabbage, an ingredient that’s deeply rooted in Irish cuisine. From classic colcannon and braised cabbage recipes to innovative slaws and soups, we’ve got 20 delicious Irish cabbage recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? They’re all made with love, using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques passed down through generations of Irish cooks.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from simple, one-pot meals to more elaborate dishes perfect for special occasions. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and get ready to cozy up with these 20 Hearty Irish Cabbage Recipes!
Traditional Irish Colcannon with Cabbage and Potatoes
Colcannon, a classic Irish dish, is a hearty mix of mashed potatoes, kale or cabbage, onions, and sometimes ham or bacon. This recipe brings together the comforting flavors of Ireland in a simple, easy-to-make side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into large chunks
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potato chunks in a large pot until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with the chopped cabbage, onion, and butter.
3. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Boiling potatoes: 15-20 minutes
– Mashing and combining ingredients: 5-7 minutes
Total cooking time: approximately 20-27 minutes
Braised Irish Cabbage with Bacon and Onions
A hearty and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion. This braised cabbage recipe is a twist on the classic Irish dish, adding smoky bacon and sweet onions for added depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and caramelized.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Add the sliced cabbage to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cooked bacon back into the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let braise for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with brown sugar.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Potato Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Irish Cabbage and Potato Soup, a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. This simple soup is made with tender cabbage, potatoes, and a hint of sweetness from the carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Corned Beef and Cabbage Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 medium cabbage, shredded
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place the corned beef in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot. Add enough water to cover it, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 hours, or until tender.
3. While the corned beef cooks, sauté the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic in a tablespoon of oil until softened.
4. Add the shredded cabbage, chicken broth, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the pot with the cooked corned beef to the oven and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Cabbage and Carrot Irish Slaw
Cabbage and Carrot Irish Slaw Recipe
Summary: A refreshing and crunchy slaw recipe that combines the sweetness of carrots with the tanginess of cabbage, perfect for topping your favorite sandwiches or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of green cabbage, shredded
• 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
• 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage-carrot mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Irish Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, cabbage, and rice to create a deliciously savory meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, bring a cup of water to a boil. Add sliced cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Drain excess water.
5. To assemble the rolls, place a spoonful of cooked ground beef mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on top of the meat, then add a small amount of cooked rice.
7. Roll up the cabbage leaves tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Dot with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Irish Cabbage with Butter and Parsley
A comforting side dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, this creamy Irish cabbage recipe is infused with the rich flavors of butter, parsley, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shredded cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Roasted Cabbage Wedges with Irish Whiskey Glaze
Roasted Cabbage Wedges with Irish Whiskey Glaze
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory as roasted cabbage meets the richness of Irish whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, cored and cut into 6-8 wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cabbage wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cabbage on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. While the cabbage is roasting, combine sugar, whiskey, and vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until glaze has thickened slightly.
7. Remove cabbage from oven and brush with Irish whiskey glaze.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Apple Sauté
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for accompanying your favorite Irish dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped apples and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
4. Add the thinly sliced cabbage and caraway seeds to the skillet.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Irish Cabbage Stir-Fry
A twist on traditional stir-fries, this spicy Irish cabbage dish combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to desired spiciness)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: cooked Irish sausage or bacon for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes; stir-fry for 30 seconds to release flavors.
4. Add cabbage to the skillet; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or crispy bacon if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Leek Gratin
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of cabbage and leeks with a rich, creamy gratin.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced (white and light green parts only)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the cabbage and leeks in butter until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Add the cream mixture to the skillet with the cabbage and leeks; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; season with salt and pepper.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Irish Cabbage with Ham Hock
Slow-Cooked Irish Cabbage with Ham Hock Recipe
Summary:
Experience the hearty flavors of Ireland with this comforting slow-cooked cabbage dish, infused with smoky ham hock and tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of green cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced ham hock (or substitute with cooked ham or bacon)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, diced ham hock, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot or slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time:
Low: 6-8 hours
High: 3-4 hours
Irish Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of Ireland with a simple, one-pot meal. Crispy sausage, tender cabbage, and aromatic spices come together in a deliciously comforting recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Irish sausage (such as bangers or knockwurst), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups shredded green cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth for added moisture
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the shredded cabbage, minced garlic, and caraway seeds. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using chicken broth, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Irish Cabbage Bake
A comforting and flavorful twist on traditional cabbage dishes, this Cheesy Irish Cabbage Bake is a hearty meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add cabbage to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook until slightly tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir in milk until smooth.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Add cooked cabbage mixture, followed by cheese sauce.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Turnip Mash
Discover the hearty flavors of Ireland with this simple yet satisfying mash recipe that combines tender cabbage, turnips, and potatoes.
Ingredients:
• 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
• 2 medium-sized turnips, peeled and chopped
• 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes until tender, then drain.
2. In a separate pot, boil the chopped cabbage and turnips in salted water for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender.
3. Drain the vegetables and mash together with the cooked potatoes, butter, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time:
20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Use a variety of turnip that’s similar to rutabaga for a sweeter flavor.
– Add some garlic powder or chopped scallions for extra depth of flavor.
– Serve warm with your favorite Irish dishes, such as corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, or colcannon.
Pan-Fried Irish Cabbage with Garlic Butter
A classic Irish side dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, this pan-fried cabbage recipe is a staple for any St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds (if using).
5. Reduce heat to low and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir until melted and coated evenly throughout the cabbage.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cabbage reaches desired tenderness.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Lentil Stew
A hearty and comforting Irish-inspired stew that combines the sweetness of cabbage with the earthiness of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, lentils, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Savory Irish Cabbage Pancakes
A twist on traditional pancakes, these Savory Irish Cabbage Pancakes are perfect for a St. Patrick’s Day brunch or a unique dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked cabbage mixture to the bowl and stir until combined.
5. Gradually add milk, mixing until batter forms.
6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Smoked Salmon Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional Irish fare, this salad combines the crunch of cabbage with the rich flavor of smoked salmon.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Irish cabbage (or Savoy), thinly sliced
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cabbage and smoked salmon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and salmon mixture, and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Herbed Irish Cabbage with Mustard Dressing
A flavorful twist on traditional colcannon, this recipe combines sautéed cabbage with a tangy mustard dressing and fragrant herbs. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you need a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add cabbage to the skillet in batches, cooking until slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
3. Stir in parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard and sour cream. Pour dressing over the cabbage mixture; toss to combine.
5. Serve hot or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 delicious Irish cabbage recipes! From traditional dishes like Colcannon and Braised Cabbage with Bacon to hearty soups, stews, and bakes, there’s something for every comfort food lover. Try your hand at making Cabbage and Potato Soup or Irish Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef. Or, go bold with Spicy Irish Cabbage Stir-Fry or Roasted Cabbage Wedges with Irish Whiskey Glaze. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to warm your belly and your heart.
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