October 1, 2023

How To Make Easy Southern Cabbage With A Tablespoon of Water

How To Make Easy Southern Cabbage With A Tablespoon of Water

Southern Cabbage: Comfort Food At Best

Hey y’all! Welcome back to my blog, where we explore the savory flavors of Southern culture, one recipe at a time. Today, I’m going to show you how to make Southern-style cabbage, and guess what? We’re doing it with just one tablespoon of water. That’s right—this is an excellent recipe if you want to savor a Southern classic without the long cooking times. But don’t let the simplicity fool you; this easy side dish is packed with flavor.

Ready to cook up a storm? Let’s get into it!

This is an image on how to cook Southern Cabbage.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Now, for those of you looking to level up this easy cabbage recipe, feel free to throw in some smoked meat like ham hocks. It adds that delicious smoky flavor we all love.

Choosing the Right Tools

To make your life easier, grab a large skillet or a Dutch oven (just 1 for this recipe, please). If you’re a fan of modern convenience, a pressure cooker or an Instant Pot on a high-pressure cook setting will do the trick. And don’t forget a slotted spoon for serving!

Video Here:

Preparation Steps for Southern Cabbage

  1. Chop Your Cabbage: Cut the head of cabbage into smaller pieces. This makes it easier to achieve that tender cabbage we’re aiming for.
  2. Spice Mix: Mix garlic powder, red pepper flakes, onion powder, and black pepper. This spice blend offers lots of flavors and a great aroma.

Cooking Time and Method

  1. Heat it Up: Place your Dutch oven or large skillet on medium heat. Add the bacon grease or bacon fat.
  2. Add Veggies: Toss in the chopped green cabbage and bell pepper.
  3. Season: Sprinkle the spice mix. Toss it well.
  4. Broth Time: Add chicken broth just enough to cover the base of the skillet. For a healthier option, you can use vegetable broth.
  5. Turn Up the Heat: Raise the heat to medium-high until it starts to simmer.
  6. Cook: Lower the heat back to medium and let it cook. Trust me; it’s a good thing to let those flavors mingle.

What To Serve With Southern Cabbage

Now, cabbage on its own is a great side dish, but if you’re looking for the perfect main dish to pair with, try pork chops or perhaps a sausage recipe. For a low-carb option, this could easily be one of Southern America’s favorite side dishes to go along with smoked meat.

How To Make Easy Southern Cabbage With A Tablespoon of Water

What To Serve With Southern Cabbage: Elevate Your Southern Feast

Southern-style cabbage, rich and flavorful, can hold its own on any dinner table, but it can also play a brilliant supporting role in a variety of main dishes. So if you’re pondering what to serve alongside this leafy green marvel, look no further. We’ve got you covered!

Pork Chops: A Match Made in Heaven

When it comes to creating a harmonious plate, it doesn’t get much better than pork chops and cabbage. Whether you’ve got your pork chops grilled, fried, or baked, their meaty flavor pairs exceptionally well with the savory taste of Southern cabbage. The crispiness of the pork complements the tender cabbage, making it a family favorite in many Southern households.

Sausage Recipe: A Spicy Counterpart for Southern Cabbage

If you love a bit of heat, a spicy sausage recipe can be the perfect main dish to accompany your cabbage. The zesty flavors of the sausage blend perfectly with the subtle spiciness of the red pepper flakes in your cabbage dish. Choose sausages with Cajun or Creole seasoning for an extra kick.

Smoked Meat: Soul Food at Its Best

For those who can’t resist the allure of smoked meat, pairing it with Southern cabbage is like a match made in soul food heaven. Whether it’s ham hocks, smoked turkey, or even smoked sausage, the smoky flavors infuse the cabbage with a depth that makes it Southern America’s favorite side dish. These two together are the epitome of down-home cooking and bring about those savory flavors of southern culture.

Low-Carb Wonders: Keep It Healthy, Y’all

If you’re watching your carb intake, Southern cabbage fits right into your meal plan. You can pair it with grilled chicken or fish to keep it light yet flavorful. Add a splash of white vinegar for a tangy twist or some olive oil to enrich the flavors.

Veggie Variations: A Plant-Based Feast

For our vegetarian and vegan friends, don’t feel left out! Pair your cabbage with a hearty vegetable stew or some grilled tofu seasoned with Cajun spices. The bell pepper and onion powder in the cabbage mix exceptionally well with plant-based proteins.

Corned Beef: St. Patrick’s Day, Southern Style!

Though not traditionally Southern, corned beef has a special relationship with cabbage, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. Why not combine this Irish classic with your Southern-style cabbage for a unique twist? Your taste buds will thank you.

How To Make Easy Southern Cabbage With A Tablespoon of Water

Side Dishes That Shine: More Than Just Cabbage

Your Southern cabbage can also be accompanied by other sides to create a complete meal experience. How about some collard greens or a simple cornbread? These are some of Southern America’s favorite side dishes that would make the meal extra special. You can also eat this with your Southern Cabbage here, it is so good!

Make It a Meal to Remember

So there you have it, folks! A variety of main dishes that can take your Southern cabbage from a simple side dish to part of a gastronomic masterpiece. Whether you’re sticking to a low-carb diet or letting your carnivorous flag fly, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re making Southern cabbage for the first time or the hundredth, it’s the perfect side dish that seamlessly fits into a variety of meal plans. Try one of these pairings, and you’re sure to impress everyone at the dinner table!

And hey, if you’ve got any other main dish suggestions to go with Southern cabbage, drop a comment below. We’d love to hear your favorite recipes and cooking tips! 🍽️

How To Make Easy Southern Cabbage With A Tablespoon of Water


There you go! Expanded the section for you with some tasty pairing options to complement your Southern-style cabbage. Hope this adds more value to your blog post and helps you attract even more readers! 😊

Storage Tips for Cabbage

Got leftover cabbage? No worries. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. If you cook a large pot and find yourself with lots of delicious cabbage, you can even freeze it!

Recipe Card

Don’t forget to pin this post so you can find this easy southern fried cabbage recipe whenever you want to whip up this family favorite. And for those who like it hot, add some Creole or Cajun seasoning to the mix.

Final Thoughts on Southern Cabbage

So there you have it—your guide to making the best Southern cabbage with just one tablespoon of water. If you’re cooking this for the first time, trust me, it’s going to become one of your favorite recipes. If you liked this post, don’t forget to share it and check out my other recipes for more down-home cooking inspiration! Here is a wonderful southern cabbage recipe that I love.

Until next time, y’all!

Keep cookin’ and enjoy!


P.S. If you found this post helpful and want more delicious recipes sent right to your inbox, make sure to subscribe below! Also, if you make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on social media. I’d love to see your creations! 🤗

P.P.S. This post may contain affiliate links, but you know I only recommend products that I absolutely love.

So, what are you waiting for? Get that cabbage and those spices from the grocery store and let’s get cooking!


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