Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish
Creamed cabbage is a wonderfully simple yet delightful Irish side dish that brings a touch of heartiness to any meal. The tender cabbage, coaxed into a sweet and savory state by the creamy sauce and buttery goodness, creates an extraordinary balance of flavors and textures. Imagine perfectly sautéed wedges of cabbage, their edges kissed by a little caramelization, bathed in a light cream that accentuates their natural sweetness. It’s comfort food at its finest, reminding you of cozy gatherings and hearty dinners.
Table of Contents
I first discovered creamed cabbage during a charming Irish dinner party a few years back. Walking into the warm atmosphere filled with the inviting aroma of butter sizzling in a skillet, I was instantly drawn to the bubbling pot of this unexpectedly delicious side dish. It wasn’t long before I dove in, and I was captivated. Now, I’m excited to share this easy recipe with you, one that’s sure to become a staple at your table as it has at mine. Whether you’re planning a festive feast or a quiet weeknight dinner, this Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish will win over the hearts of your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Lights off in just 15 minutes, perfect for speeding up mealtime without sacrificing flavor.
- Irresistible Flavor: The natural sweetness of the cabbage pairs beautifully with the rich creaminess, making each bite a delight.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Beautifully caramelized edges of cabbage with a wonderful glossy finish—it’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- Flexible Serving: Ideal as a side for roast meats, grilled fish, or even as a comforting vegetarian dish during chilly nights.
- Diet-Friendly Options: If you’re watching your calories, feel free to swap the light cream for a lower-fat alternative without losing flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/4 cup butter: For sautéing the cabbage and adding rich flavor; unsalted is best, but feel free to use salted if that’s what you have.
- 1/2 tsp. salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the cabbage; adjust according to taste preferences.
- 1 medium head of cabbage: Cut into small wedges for even cooking; green cabbage works beautifully, but savoy cabbage adds extra tenderness.
- 1/4-1/2 cup light cream: This gives the dish its luscious texture; half-and-half or even a splash of milk can be used if you’re looking for a lighter version.
- Freshly ground pepper: Just a pinch or to your liking to add a bit of heat and contrast to the creaminess.
How to Make Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish
Melt Butter: Start by placing 1/4 cup of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely, letting that rich aroma fill your kitchen.
Sauté Cabbage: Carefully arrange the small wedges of cabbage in the skillet. Cover it with a lid and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the undersides are slightly browned or charred. This caramelization adds great depth to flavors.
Turn and Brown: After the first side is golden, use a spatula to gently turn the cabbage wedges over. Let them sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the second side reaches similar browning. You’ll love the fragrant smell wafting from the skillet!
Add Cream: Carefully pour in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of light cream to the skillet. Stir gently and allow it to heat through, cooking for about 2 minutes until the cream thickens slightly. The dish is almost ready!
Season and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the seasoning to your liking. Enjoy the sweet and buttery essence of the cabbage as it’s transformed by cream!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze in a freezer-safe container for a maximum of 3 months. When it comes time to reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Just be aware that the texture might soften a bit, so adding a splash of cream can refresh it beautifully.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the cabbage as it can become mushy. Look for a tender yet still crisp texture.
- For a more robust flavor, consider adding some diced onions or garlic when melting the butter.
- If you want to add a hint of tang, a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate this dish.
- Make it ahead of time! The flavors deepen with a little rest. Just reheat gently before serving.
Creamed cabbage is not just a side dish; it’s a heartwarming addition to your meals. Its creamy, sweet, and slightly peppery flavors create a delightful harmony on your plate. Whether you whip it up for a family dinner or impress guests with a cozy Irish feast, this dish is sure to leave everyone craving more. Don’t hesitate to play with the ingredients and make it your own—perhaps add some herbs or a sprinkle of cheese to the top for a unique twist.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional, savoy and Napa cabbages work beautifully as well. They may offer different textures, but each brings its unique flavor to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version of creamed cabbage, try substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk instead of light cream. This will maintain the dish’s richness without the dairy!
What can I serve with this dish?
Creamed cabbage pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, like beef or chicken, and also complements fish beautifully. If you’re more plant-based, it’s a lovely side to hearty grain dishes or even a simple potato dish.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can sauté the cabbage and mix in the spices ahead of time, but it’s best to add the cream just before serving. This way, you maintain the perfect texture and freshness of the dish. Just reheat it gently on the stove!
PrintMore Main Dishes Recipes
- Ground Turkey Egg Roll Bowls
- Greek Chicken Marinade
- Healthy Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze
- Quick Ground Beef and Potatoes
- Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Corned Beef
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Creamed Cabbage | Easy Irish Side Dish
- Prep Time: N/A
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dishes
- Method: Saute
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Creamed Cabbage is a delightful side dish bursting with flavor. This easy recipe showcases tender cabbage coated in creamy richness, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Simple steps bring this dish together quickly, ensuring a delicious addition to your dinner.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1 medium head of cabbage (cut into small wedges)
- 1/4–1/2 cup light cream
- freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the cabbage to the skillet, cover, and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until slightly browned or charred.
- Carefully turn the cabbage over and brown the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the cream and heat for 2 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
- Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the amount of cream based on your preference for richness.
For added flavor, incorporate garlic or onion while cooking the cabbage.
This dish pairs well with roasted meats or fish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
