Description
Sautéed Cabbage and Sausage is a hearty, flavorful one-pan meal featuring smoky kielbasa, tender cabbage, and a tangy mustard-vinegar sauce. Quick and easy, this dish comes together in just 35 minutes and delivers a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal any time of the week.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
1 small (2 to 3 pounds) head of green cabbage
12 ounces kielbasa (smoked Polish sausage – see notes)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or use olive oil)
1 small onion, diced
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard (or use Dijon)
Instructions
- Prep the Cabbage: Cut the cabbage in half, remove the core, and slice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Prep the Sausage: Slice the kielbasa in half lengthwise, then cut crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick pieces.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat a large pan over medium heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on both sides (about 5 minutes). Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions: In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the garlic, caraway seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, stirring often, for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight bite.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the apple cider vinegar and mustard.
- Combine and Finish: Once the cabbage is cooked, drizzle the vinegar-mustard mixture over the cabbage. Add the cooked sausage back into the pan and toss everything together. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sausage is heated through.
- Taste and Adjust: Season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the savory, tangy goodness!
Notes
- Different Sausage: If preferred, use turkey kielbasa or other types of smoked sausages for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or even a handful of kale for extra texture and nutrients.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to regular rice or potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
