Pin It There is a unique comfort found in the humble combination of cabbage and potatoes, especially when they are slow-cooked until they reach a meltingly soft consistency. This Braised Cabbage With Potatoes and Chili is a masterclass in rustic European flavors, where the sweetness of the cabbage is perfectly complemented by a subtle chili warmth and the richness of butter. Perfect for cozy, comforting meals, this dish turns simple pantry staples into something truly special.
Pin It As the vegetables simmer in a savory broth, the flavors intensify and the potatoes release just enough starch to create a silky, aromatic glaze. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a beautiful centerpiece for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, filling your kitchen with a welcoming and savory aroma.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage (about 900 g), cored and sliced
- 500 g (1 lb) Yukon Gold or waxy potatoes, peeled and cut into 2 cm chunks
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 fresh red chilies, deseeded and finely sliced (or 1 tsp chili flakes, to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) vegetable broth
- Chopped fresh parsley (garnish)
- Lemon wedges (garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Step 2
- Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Step 3
- Stir in the garlic and chili; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add the potatoes and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes.
- Step 5
- Add the sliced cabbage, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 6
- Pour in the vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Step 7
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and cabbage are meltingly soft and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 9
- Remove the bay leaf. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, use a large, heavy pot or a Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution and prevent the vegetables from sticking. Stirring the mixture occasionally helps the cabbage and potatoes cook uniformly as they absorb the flavorful vegetable broth.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, simply substitute the butter with plant-based margarine. If you prefer more heat, use extra fresh chili or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. This dish is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to your preferred spice level.
Serviervorschläge
This dish is excellent as a vegetarian main dish or a hearty side. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the juices, or serve it alongside grilled sausages for a more robust meal. The leftovers reheat exceptionally well on the stovetop with a small splash of broth.
Pin It Gather your loved ones around a steaming pot of this Braised Cabbage and Potatoes. It is simple, honest cooking that proves how a few basic ingredients can be transformed into a deeply satisfying and memorable meal. Enjoy the warmth and rustic charm in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
For milder heat, reduce the chili to half or omit it entirely. For more warmth, add extra fresh chilies, use chili flakes, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust to your personal preference.
- → What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is ideal for this dish as it holds up well during braising and becomes tender without turning mushy. Savoy cabbage also works nicely for a slightly more delicate texture.
- → Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely. Simply replace the butter with plant-based margarine or additional olive oil. The dish will still have wonderful flavor and richness while being completely vegan-friendly.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
This pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a heartier meal, serve with grilled sausages, or enjoy it as a substantial side dish alongside roasted meats or fish.
- → Why are my potatoes not cooking evenly?
Ensure your potato chunks are cut uniformly to about 2 cm in size. If they're too large, they'll take longer to cook. Also, keep the pot covered during braising to trap steam and heat for even cooking.