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Cabbage Boil

Tender cabbage simmered in a seasoned broth with aromatics for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make side dish or light meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Light Main, Side Dish
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Calories: 85
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 large head of green cabbage roughly chopped into 2-inch pieces (about 8 cups)
  • 1 large yellow onion diced into half-moons
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika optional but recommended
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Fresh thyme sprigs or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional

Equipment

  • Large stainless steel or aluminum pot with lid
  • Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • slotted spoon
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Remove outer leaves from the cabbage; rinse under cool running water and chop into 2-inch pieces.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly so it does not brown.
  4. Stir in sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and thyme to bloom the spices in the butter.
  5. Slowly pour in 6 cups broth while scraping the pot bottom; increase heat to medium-high and bring to a rolling boil for about 3 to 4 minutes.
  6. Add cabbage in batches, stirring to wilt, then add bay leaves and reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer.
  7. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is fork-tender but still holds shape.
  8. Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

Serve hot as a side or light main. Freezes well; reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore texture.