Black People’s Soul Food Cabbage Recipe

The aroma of sautéed cabbage wafts through the kitchen, transporting you to a sun-soaked Southern porch, where the comfort of home-cooked meals awaits. This Black People’s Soul Food Cabbage Recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes and brings a delightful, savory flavor that embodies the essence of soul food. The combination of butter, broth, and seasonings creates a rich, soulful dish that elevates a simple vegetable into a family favorite.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a hearty side dish to their meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this cabbage dish will impress. You can make it ahead of time and store leftovers, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender, flavorful cabbage infused with savory seasonings.
• Quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Completely customizable with your choice of broth for vegetarian options.
• Comforting and satisfying, perfect for family gatherings.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

For the Cabbage

• 4 lb cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup yellow onion, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth (or use vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian)

For the Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup butter, unsalted or vegan butter
• ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Vegan butter can replace regular butter.
• Red pepper flakes can be adjusted for heat.
• Any broth can substitute chicken broth.
• Cabbage can be swapped for kale or collard greens.

How to Make It

Here’s a simple guide to preparing this delicious cabbage dish.

Prepare the Cabbage

Cut out the cabbage’s core and coarsely chop the leaves using a food processor or knife. Be sure to remove the outer layer of cabbage leaves first and discard them before chopping.

Melt the Butter

Turn the stovetop on medium and add the butter to the cast iron frying pan skillet. Allow the butter to melt completely before moving on to the next step.

Sauté the Vegetables

Once the butter has melted, add the chopped cabbage, onion, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Old Bay or Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Simmer

Cover the pan with a lid and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Cook Uncovered

Remove the lid from the skillet and cook the cabbage uncovered for about 15 minutes, being careful not to let all the broth evaporate so the cabbage does not dry out.

Serve

When cooking is finished, serve this Southern dish right away and enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: no, it doesn’t freeze well.
Reheat: use a stovetop on low for about 5 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• For extra flavor, let the cabbage sit in the broth for a few minutes before cooking.
• Always taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
• Use fresh cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
• Pair with proteins like chicken or pork for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside fried chicken for a classic Southern meal.
• Pair with cornbread at family gatherings.
• Enjoy with rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.