Kielbasa and Cabbage

Kielbasa and cabbage recipe combines smoky Polish sausage with tender cabbage, creating a hearty and flavorful dish. Hailing from Polish cuisine, this recipe reflects the country's rich culinary heritage. The history of this dish can be traced back to traditional Eastern European cooking, where kielbasa, a type of sausage, and cabbage were commonly available ingredients. The technique involves browning the sausage to release its savory essence and sautéing cabbage until it reaches a tender and slightly caramelized state.

The recipe's ingredients play a crucial role in its taste profile. The kielbasa imparts a robust and smoky flavor, while the cabbage provides a sweet and earthy note. This combination creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The dish is a testament to the enduring popularity of comfort food across cultures, and its simplicity allows for easy preparation and enjoyment. Whether served as a main course or a side, kielbasa and cabbage recipe showcases the rustic and satisfying flavors of Polish cuisine.

MeatSausageVegetablesEastern European

Prep Time: 5 min

Cook Time: 25 min

Total Time: 30 min

Yield: 4 servings

A plate of kielbasa and sautéed cabbage.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. beef kielbasa or smoked sausage
  • 1 head of cabbage
  • 2 Tbsp. cider vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. butter
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Instructions

Prep

  1. 1.
    Quarter the cabbage along the spine and slice down into ribbons. Don't cut into the hard center.
  2. 2.
    Slice the kielbasa into 3-4 inch pieces, then quarter each piece length-wise into spears.

Sauté

  1. 3.
    Heat the butter in a large frying pan until it stops foaming.
  2. 4.
    Add the sliced kielbasa to the butter and let it brown, turning it until all sides are done.
  3. 5.
    Remove the kielbasa from the pan and set aside.
  4. 6.
    Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and toss to coat with the pan drippings.
  5. 7.
    Add the cider vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper and toss.
  6. 8.
    Sauté the cabbage until it is soft, stirring regularly.
  7. 9.
    Place the cabbage on the plate and top with pieces of kielbasa.