If you’re craving a rich, flavorful comfort dish, this cabbage with peppers, onion, sausage, and ham is the ultimate home-cooked delight. Cooking it in rendered fat brings out incredible depth, while butter, water, and a blend of seasonings make every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Cabbage with Peppers, Onion, Sausage, and Ham
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ham or sausage, diced | As desired |
| Bacon (optional), chopped | As desired |
| Onion, diced | 1 large (~2 cups) |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced | 1 large head (~2 lbs / 900g) |
| Bell peppers, sliced | 2 (choose colors you like) |
| Salt | 1 tbsp, or to taste |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1/8 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Butter | 1–2 tbsp |
| Water | 1/4 cup (as needed for moisture) |
| Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice | Dash |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, Dutch oven, or deep pot over medium-high heat, cook diced ham, sausage, and optional bacon until lightly browned and flavorful. Remove meat with a slotted spoon, leaving rendered fat in the pot.
Sauté the Onions and Peppers
Add diced onion and sliced peppers to the pot. Cook 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized. Stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Cabbage
Add sliced cabbage to the pot and toss to coat with the flavorful fat and aromatics. Add butter and a splash of water to help it steam. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage starts to soften.
Season and Simmer
Return the meat to the pot. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will become tender and soak up all the savory goodness.
Taste and Serve
Adjust seasonings if needed. Add a dash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for a bright, fresh finish. Serve warm.
Perfect Pairings:
This hearty dish goes beautifully with mashed potatoes, cornbread, grilled meats, or even topped with a fried egg for a satisfying meal.
