Fried Cabbage with Sausage

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Fried Cabbage with Sausage, a classic Southern-inspired recipe. Crispy fried cabbage, savory sausage, and onions come together in a satisfying and filling skillet dish perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

1. 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Kielbasa, Andouille, or turkey sausage), sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
3. 1 medium onion, diced
4. 1 medium bell pepper, diced (optional)
5. 4 cups cabbage, chopped (about half a medium head)
6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
7. 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
8. 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
9. 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
10. 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
11. 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for extra moisture)
12. 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
13. Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the sausage:

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the vegetables:

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil or butter if needed.
2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the cabbage:

1. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage starts to soften and brown slightly.
2. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to coat the cabbage evenly with the seasonings.

Add moisture (optional):

1. If the cabbage begins to stick or you want a bit of extra moisture, add 1/4 cup of chicken broth or water to the skillet. This helps soften the cabbage further and adds flavor.
2. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crispy around the edges.

Combine sausage and finish cooking:

1. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet with the cabbage and stir to combine.
   Drizzle with apple cider vinegar if you’d like a tangy kick.
   Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
   Serve:
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
   This dish is great as a stand-alone meal or served with mashed potatoes, cornbread, or over rice. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful fried cabbage with sausage!