Description
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker dish featuring tender cabbage, smoked sausage, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a comforting meal with minimal prep and slow-cooked to perfection for rich taste and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
Meat
- 14 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Layer Vegetables: In a large slow cooker, layer the chopped cabbage, sliced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrot evenly to create the vegetable base.
- Add Sausage: Arrange the sliced smoked sausage or kielbasa on top of the layered vegetables to infuse the dish with smoky flavors.
- Season: Sprinkle paprika, black pepper, salt, and optional crushed red pepper flakes over the layered ingredients for seasoning and a slight spice kick.
- Add Liquids and Fat: Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the mixture, then pour in the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth to add moisture and depth of flavor.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Final Touch: Stir the dish gently before serving, then taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as desired for the perfect balance.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes quantity or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Using smoked sausage adds a rich smoky flavor; kielbasa is a great alternative.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
- Be careful not to overcook the cabbage to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or cooked rice for a complete meal.
