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Southern-Style Fried Cabbage with Sausage is more than just a dish; it represents a rich culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations. Cabbage, a staple vegetable in Southern kitchens, has a long history rooted in various cultural influences, including African, European, and Native American cuisines. The dish often embodies the resourcefulness of Southern cooks, who have creatively combined available ingredients to produce hearty and flavorful meals.

Southern-Style Fried Cabbage with Sausage Recipe

Discover the heartwarming flavors of Southern-Style Fried Cabbage with Sausage, a beloved comfort food that combines smoky sausage with tender sautéed cabbage. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this simple recipe highlights the resourcefulness and culinary heritage of the South. Explore the rich history of cabbage and sausage in Southern cooking, and enjoy a meal that transforms everyday ingredients into a delightful feast for family and friends.
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Ingredients
  

1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped

1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced into rounds

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for sweetness)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Cabbage and Sausage: Begin by chopping the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces and slicing the smoked sausage into rounds. Set aside.

    Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until it’s browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

      Add Onions and Garlic: Once the sausage is browned, add the thinly sliced onion to the pan. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Incorporate the Cabbage: Gradually stir in the chopped cabbage, allowing it to wilt down as it cooks. This might seem like a lot at first, but it will reduce significantly.

          Season: Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring that the spices evenly coat the cabbage and sausage.

            Add Vinegar and Sweetener: Drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the mixture. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dish, add the brown sugar at this stage. Mix thoroughly.

              Cook Until Tender: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the cabbage to cook down for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is tender but still has a nice bite to it.

                Finish and Serve: Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

                  Plate and Enjoy: Serve your Southern-Style Fried Cabbage with Sausage hot as a hearty side dish or main course!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings