Easy and Delicious Savoy Cabbage Recipes: A Culinary Guide
Savoy cabbage, with its crinkled leaves and mild flavor, is a versatile and often overlooked vegetable. Unlike its more assertive cousins like red or green cabbage, savoy cabbage offers a subtly sweet and slightly earthy taste that makes it a fantastic addition to a wide range of dishes. This guide will explore several easy and delicious savoy cabbage recipes, providing detailed steps and instructions to help you incorporate this nutritional powerhouse into your weekly meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are designed to be approachable and satisfying.
## Why Choose Savoy Cabbage?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s discuss why savoy cabbage deserves a place in your kitchen:
* **Mild Flavor:** Its gentle taste makes it palatable even for those who aren’t typically fans of cabbage.
* **Texture:** The crinkled leaves have a pleasant texture, holding sauces and dressings well.
* **Nutritional Benefits:** Savoy cabbage is packed with vitamins (especially C and K), minerals, and fiber.
* **Versatility:** It can be steamed, stir-fried, roasted, braised, or even eaten raw in salads.
* **Availability:** Savoy cabbage is typically available year-round, though its peak season is in the fall and winter.
## Preparing Savoy Cabbage
Proper preparation is key to enjoying savoy cabbage at its best. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. **Washing:** Rinse the cabbage thoroughly under cold running water. Pay attention to the inner leaves, as dirt can sometimes accumulate there.
2. **Removing Outer Leaves:** Discard any wilted or damaged outer leaves.
3. **Cutting:** There are several ways to cut savoy cabbage:
* **Wedges:** Cut the cabbage in half through the core, then cut each half into wedges.
* **Shredding:** Cut the cabbage in half, remove the core, and then thinly slice each half crosswise.
* **Chopping:** Cut the cabbage into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
4. **Cooking:** Once cut, the cabbage is ready to be cooked. Remember that it cooks faster than other types of cabbage, so keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.
## Recipe 1: Simple Sautéed Savoy Cabbage with Garlic and Butter
This is a quick and easy recipe that highlights the natural flavor of savoy cabbage. It’s a great side dish or a base for other ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 medium savoy cabbage
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons butter
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Wash the savoy cabbage, remove any damaged outer leaves, and shred it thinly.
2. **Sauté the Garlic:** In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
3. **Add the Cabbage:** Add the shredded savoy cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. **Cook the Cabbage:** Sauté the cabbage for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is tender-crisp and slightly wilted. Be careful not to overcook it.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Lemon Juice:** A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking brightens the flavor.
* **Use Olive Oil:** Replace butter with olive oil for a healthier option.
* **Include Herbs:** Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or chives add a fresh dimension.
* **Add Bacon:** Crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top add a savory element.
## Recipe 2: Creamy Savoy Cabbage with Bacon and Gruyere
This recipe takes savoy cabbage to a new level with the addition of bacon, cream, and Gruyere cheese. It’s a comforting and indulgent dish perfect for a chilly evening.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 medium savoy cabbage
* 4 slices bacon, chopped
* 1 small onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Wash the savoy cabbage, remove any damaged outer leaves, and shred it thinly.
2. **Cook the Bacon:** In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan.
3. **Sauté the Onion and Garlic:** Add the butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. **Add the Cabbage:** Add the shredded savoy cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
5. **Cook the Cabbage:** Cook the cabbage for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and slightly wilted.
6. **Add Cream and Cheese:** Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add the grated Gruyere cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. **Combine:** Stir in the cooked bacon.
8. **Serve:** Serve hot as a side dish or a main course. It’s delicious with roasted pork or sausages.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Cheese:** Substitute Gruyere with other melting cheeses like Emmental, cheddar, or Fontina.
* **Add a Pinch of Nutmeg:** A pinch of ground nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic note.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of bacon fat for a vegetarian version.
* **Top with Breadcrumbs:** Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
## Recipe 3: Savoy Cabbage and Apple Slaw with Cider Vinaigrette
This refreshing slaw combines the crunch of savoy cabbage with the sweetness of apples and a tangy cider vinaigrette. It’s a perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 medium savoy cabbage
* 2 apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), cored and thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup dried cranberries
* 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
**For the Cider Vinaigrette:**
* 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Wash the savoy cabbage, remove any damaged outer leaves, and shred it thinly.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded savoy cabbage, sliced apples, dried cranberries, and chopped nuts.
3. **Make the Vinaigrette:** In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. **Dress the Slaw:** Pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage mixture and toss gently to coat.
5. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. **Serve:** Serve chilled as a side dish.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Add shredded carrots, celery, or red onion for added crunch and flavor.
* **Use Different Nuts:** Substitute walnuts or pecans with other nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or pumpkin seeds.
* **Add Yogurt:** For a creamier slaw, add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt to the vinaigrette.
* **Use Different Fruits:** Replace apples with pears, grapes, or mandarin oranges.
## Recipe 4: Braised Savoy Cabbage with Sausage and Potatoes
This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for a cold winter day. The combination of savoy cabbage, sausage, and potatoes creates a satisfying and flavorful dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 medium savoy cabbage
* 1 pound sausage (such as Italian or kielbasa), sliced
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Wash the savoy cabbage, remove any damaged outer leaves, and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Brown the Sausage:** In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
3. **Sauté the Onion and Garlic:** Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. **Add the Potatoes and Cabbage:** Add the cubed potatoes and chopped savoy cabbage to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
5. **Add the Broth:** Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
6. **Add the Sausage:** Return the browned sausage to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, until heated through.
7. **Serve:** Serve hot in bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Sausage:** Substitute Italian or kielbasa sausage with other types of sausage, such as chorizo or andouille.
* **Add Carrots:** Add chopped carrots along with the potatoes for added sweetness and nutrition.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Substitute thyme with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or oregano.
* **Add a Can of Diced Tomatoes:** Add a can of diced tomatoes for a richer flavor.
## Recipe 5: Savoy Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce
This Asian-inspired stir-fry is a quick and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savoy cabbage, ginger, and soy sauce creates a savory and satisfying dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 medium savoy cabbage
* 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1 carrot, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon grated ginger
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
* Sesame seeds for garnish
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Wash the savoy cabbage, remove any damaged outer leaves, and shred it thinly.
2. **Stir-Fry the Vegetables:** Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the shredded savoy cabbage, sliced bell pepper, and sliced carrot. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. **Add Garlic and Ginger:** Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the wok and stir-fry for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. **Add Sauce:** Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Stir-fry for another minute, until the sauce is heated through and the vegetables are evenly coated.
5. **Garnish:** Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
6. **Serve:** Serve hot over rice or noodles.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Protein:** Add tofu, chicken, shrimp, or beef for a more substantial meal.
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Add other vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or mushrooms.
* **Add Chili Garlic Sauce:** Add chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Use Different Sauces:** Substitute soy sauce with tamari (for a gluten-free option) or hoisin sauce.
## Recipe 6: Stuffed Savoy Cabbage Rolls
This is a classic comfort food recipe, where savoy cabbage leaves are stuffed with a savory filling and baked in a tomato sauce. It takes a bit more time but the result is incredibly satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 large savoy cabbage
* 1 pound ground beef or pork (or a mixture)
* 1/2 cup cooked rice
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon sugar
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer leaves of the savoy cabbage, keeping them intact. You’ll need about 10-12 large leaves. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes, until they are softened and pliable. Remove the leaves from the pot and set aside to cool.
2. **Make the Filling:** In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. **Assemble the Cabbage Rolls:** Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place a spoonful of the meat filling in the center of the leaf. Fold in the sides of the leaf, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.
4. **Make the Tomato Sauce:** In a large bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, and sugar. Mix well to combine.
5. **Bake the Cabbage Rolls:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls in the dish, seam-side down. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls.
6. **Bake:** Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
7. **Serve:** Serve hot, spooning some of the tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Meat:** Substitute ground beef or pork with ground turkey or lamb.
* **Add Other Vegetables to the Filling:** Add chopped mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to the filling.
* **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the cabbage rolls before baking.
* **Use Fresh Tomatoes:** Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes for a more vibrant flavor. Peel and chop about 4 cups of fresh tomatoes.
## Recipe 7: Savoy Cabbage Soup with White Beans and Rosemary
This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of savoy cabbage, white beans, and rosemary creates a comforting and nutritious meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 medium savoy cabbage
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (15 ounce) can white beans, rinsed and drained
* 6 cups vegetable broth
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Wash the savoy cabbage, remove any damaged outer leaves, and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. **Add the Cabbage and Beans:** Add the chopped savoy cabbage and rinsed white beans to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and dried rosemary.
4. **Add the Broth:** Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
5. **Serve:** Serve hot in bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Beans:** Substitute white beans with other beans like cannellini beans, great northern beans, or kidney beans.
* **Add Potatoes:** Add cubed potatoes along with the cabbage for a heartier soup.
* **Add Sausage:** Add browned sausage or bacon for a richer flavor.
* **Use Fresh Rosemary:** Use fresh rosemary instead of dried rosemary for a more intense flavor. Use about 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh rosemary.
## Recipe 8: Roasted Savoy Cabbage Wedges with Balsamic Glaze
This simple recipe highlights the naturally sweet flavor of savoy cabbage. Roasting brings out the best in this vegetable, and the balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 medium savoy cabbage
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cabbage:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the savoy cabbage, remove any damaged outer leaves, and cut it into wedges. Keep the core intact so the wedges don’t fall apart.
2. **Season the Cabbage:** Place the cabbage wedges on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. **Roast:** Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly browned.
4. **Add Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle the roasted cabbage wedges with balsamic glaze.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately as a side dish.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Garlic:** Toss the cabbage wedges with minced garlic before roasting.
* **Add Parmesan Cheese:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the cabbage wedges before roasting.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Toss the cabbage wedges with dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano before roasting.
* **Add Red Pepper Flakes:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
## Conclusion
Savoy cabbage is a wonderfully versatile and nutritious vegetable that deserves a regular spot on your dinner table. These easy and delicious recipes offer a variety of ways to enjoy its mild flavor and unique texture. From simple sautéed sides to hearty braises and refreshing slaws, there’s a savoy cabbage recipe to suit every taste and occasion. So, grab a head of savoy cabbage and start experimenting! You might just discover your new favorite vegetable.
Enjoy these recipes, and happy cooking!