If you are craving a hearty and comforting bowl of goodness, this Sausage and Cabbage Stew Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with savory flavors from smoked sausage and tender cabbage, it’s a soul-warming dish that brings together simple ingredients in the most delicious way. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and earthy notes, making it a favorite for cozy dinners or anytime you want a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sausage and Cabbage Stew Recipe relies on straightforward, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully to build layers of flavor and texture. From the smokiness of sausage to the slight sweetness of carrots and cabbage, every component plays a key role in creating this unforgettable stew.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The base for sautéing, bringing a subtle fruitiness and healthy fat to the stew.
- 1 pound smoked sausage or kielbasa (sliced into 1/2-inch rounds): Adds a smoky, savory richness that’s essential for that deep flavor.
- 1 onion (diced): Builds a sweet and aromatic foundation when gently cooked.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a fragrant punch that enhances every bite.
- 3 carrots (peeled and sliced): Offer a natural sweetness and lovely color contrast.
- 2 celery stalks (chopped): Contributes a refreshing crunch and subtle herbal notes.
- 1 small green cabbage (cored and chopped): The star vegetable, bringing tenderness and mild earthiness.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds acidity and depth, balancing the richness.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful, comforting liquid base.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses subtle herbaceous warmth.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings smoky sweetness and a gentle earthiness.
- 1 bay leaf: Enhances the stew’s overall complexity with mild bitterness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance flavors.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional): Adds a gentle tang that lifts the stew.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Delivers a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Sausage and Cabbage Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook it for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s beautifully browned. This step releases all the smoky juices that are going to flavor the entire stew. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside, keeping those flavorful bits in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pot, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Let them cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they start to soften and the onions turn translucent. This creates a fragrant, inviting base that’s perfect for the cabbage and other ingredients to build upon.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Stir in the chopped green cabbage and let it cook for about 5 minutes. The cabbage will begin to wilt and absorb the flavors of the sautéed vegetables and sausage drippings. This step is where the stew starts to become truly hearty and vibrant.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, paprika, and bay leaf. Return the browned sausage to the pot, stir everything together well, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and all the vegetables to become tender and meld beautifully.
Step 5: Final Seasoning Touches
Remove the bay leaf from the stew. For a subtle touch of brightness, stir in the optional tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Taste your stew and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This finishing step ensures your stew is perfectly balanced and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Sausage and Cabbage Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the rich flavors of the stew. It’s simple but makes such a difference in presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Crusty bread is a classic partner, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. You can also serve this stew over creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting and satisfying meal. Both options elevate the experience, making every bite cozy and wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the stew inside a hollowed-out bread bowl or ladle it over cooked grains like barley or farro. You could also top it with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese to add richness and texture. These ideas turn the classic Sausage and Cabbage Stew Recipe into a centerpiece that’s not only tasty but visually appealing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover stew in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors even more as they continue to develop.
Freezing
This stew freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will last up to 3 months, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the stew if it thickened during storage or freezing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage or kielbasa is traditional and gives great flavor, you can experiment with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a chicken sausage for a lighter version. Just adjust cooking times if needed.
Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes, this Sausage and Cabbage Stew Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and sausage. Always double-check labels if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I make this stew vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that savory depth. Adding mushrooms or beans can also boost heartiness and protein.
How spicy is this stew?
This recipe has a mild, comforting flavor by default. If you prefer more heat, try adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy sausage. Adjust spice levels to your taste.
What’s the best way to reheat without losing flavor?
Reheating slowly on the stovetop with a splash of broth helps preserve the stew’s texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the sausage from drying out.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day, the Sausage and Cabbage Stew Recipe is your new best friend. It’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and delivers incredible taste that will keep you coming back for seconds. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite weeknight supper!
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Sausage and Cabbage Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting Sausage and Cabbage Stew featuring smoked sausage, fresh vegetables, and rich broth simmered to perfection. This gluten-free Eastern European-inspired dish is perfect for a satisfying main course and can be enhanced with a touch of apple cider vinegar for added depth.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small green cabbage, cored and chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables start to soften, stirring occasionally.
- Add and wilt the cabbage: Stir in the chopped green cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing it to begin wilting and reducing in volume.
- Add remaining ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, paprika, and the bay leaf. Return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir all ingredients well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the stew: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
- Finish and season: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the apple cider vinegar if using, then taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot, optionally alongside crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use hot sausage or add red pepper flakes for a spicier stew.
- This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
- Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang and enhances the flavors but is optional.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
