15 Best Boiled Cabbage Recipes To Try Today

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15 Best Boiled Cabbage Recipes

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Savor the hearty versatility of Mangoes and Palm Trees’ 15 best boiled cabbage recipes, inspired by global cuisines from Scandinavia to Southeast Asia!

Picture a global feast where the humble cabbage transforms into vibrant dishes through the art of boiling—Scandinavian herb-infused sides, Irish creamy soups, and Southeast Asian sweet-sour stews. At *Mangoes and Palm Trees*, we celebrate cabbage’s adaptability, drawing on worldwide culinary traditions, including Natalia’s Siberian heritage, to create **global boiled cabbage dishes** that elevate this nutritious vegetable. From our Scandinavian-Inspired Boiled Cabbage to Irish Colcannon Soup, these **easy boiled cabbage recipes** are perfect for comforting meals, healthy sides, or hearty mains. Dive into this diverse collection and explore more at our Recipes Collection.


Why Boiled Cabbage?

Cabbage, a nutrient-packed vegetable, shines when boiled, offering a tender texture and mild flavor that absorbs global seasonings beautifully. Low in calories and high in fiber, it’s a healthy choice for diverse dishes, from simple sides to complex casseroles. At *Mangoes and Palm Trees*, we’ve reimagined boiled cabbage with international flair, creating **healthy boiled cabbage meals** inspired by Scandinavian, Irish, and African cuisines. Whether you’re cooking for comfort or nutrition, boiled cabbage is a versatile canvas for global flavors. Discover more vegetable inspiration in our Vegetarian Recipes.

The Global Appeal of Boiled Cabbage

Cultivated worldwide, cabbage is a staple in cuisines from Eastern Europe to Southeast Asia, valued for its affordability and versatility. Boiling softens its texture, making it ideal for soups, rolls, or stuffed dishes. Our recipes infuse this humble vegetable with a **100% unique** global perspective, ensuring dishes that are both authentic and innovative for modern palates (Bon Appétit).


Signature Recipe: Scandinavian-Inspired Boiled Cabbage

Kick off your global cabbage journey with our flagship **Scandinavian-Inspired Boiled Cabbage**, a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* exclusive that combines tender cabbage wedges with a dill-infused broth, offering a simple yet flavorful side perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Vegetable broth4 cupsFlavorful liquid
Unsalted butter2 tbspRich finish
Dried dill1 tspScandinavian herb
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Caraway seeds1/2 tspEarthy note
Fresh parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Cut 1 head of green cabbage into 6 wedges, keeping the core intact. In a large pot, bring 4 cups vegetable broth to a boil with 1 tsp dill and 1/2 tsp caraway seeds. Add cabbage wedges, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender. Remove cabbage, stir 2 tbsp butter, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper into the broth, and simmer for 2 minutes. Drizzle broth over cabbage, garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley, and serve as a Scandinavian-inspired side (40 Aprons).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~100 kcal, 2g protein, 5g fat, 12g carbs, 4g fiber, 500mg sodium.


14 More Global Boiled Cabbage Inspirations

Beyond our signature side, here are 14 additional **boiled cabbage recipes**, each infused with a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* global twist, drawing from cuisines worldwide to inspire your culinary creativity.

2. Southern U.S. Cabbage with Smoked Paprika

A smoky, bacon-infused cabbage dish.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Bacon4 slicesSmoky flavor
Onion1 mediumSweet depth
Chicken broth3 cupsCooking liquid
Smoked paprika1 tspSouthern spice
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Red pepper flakes1/4 tspMild heat
Salt1/2 tspFlavor enhancer
Fresh thyme1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a large pot, cook 4 bacon slices until crispy, about 5 minutes, then remove and crumble. In the bacon grease, sauté 1 diced onion for 3 minutes. Add 1 head chopped cabbage, 3 cups chicken broth, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until cabbage is tender. Stir in crumbled bacon, garnish with 1 tbsp chopped thyme, and serve as a Southern U.S.-inspired side (Spicy Southern Kitchen).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~150 kcal, 5g protein, 8g fat, 15g carbs, 4g fiber, 600mg sodium.

3. South African Creamed Cabbage

Rich, creamy cabbage with a nutmeg twist.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Whole milk1 cupCreamy sauce
Unsalted butter2 tbspRichness
Cornstarch1 tbspThickener
Ground nutmeg1/4 tspSouth African spice
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/4 tspSubtle spice
Fresh chives1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Chop 1 head green cabbage and boil in salted water for 8-10 minutes until soft, then drain. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter, whisk in 1 tbsp cornstarch, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add 1 cup milk, stirring until thickened, about 3 minutes. Stir in 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Add cabbage, simmer for 5 minutes, and garnish with 1 tbsp chopped chives for a South African-inspired creamy side (Foodle Club).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~120 kcal, 3g protein, 6g fat, 14g carbs, 4g fiber, 450mg sodium.

4. Eastern European Creamy Garlic Pork with Cabbage

Hearty pork and cabbage in a creamy sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Pork loin1 lbProtein base
Cream cheese1/2 cupCreamy sauce
Chicken broth2 cupsCooking liquid
Garlic3 clovesAromatic base
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Fresh parsley1 tbspGarnish
Paprika1/2 tspEarthy flavor

Cooking Method

Cut 1 lb pork loin into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook pork with 1/2 tsp paprika and 1/2 tsp salt for 5 minutes until browned. Remove pork. Sauté 3 minced garlic cloves for 1 minute, add 2 cups chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Add 1 head shredded cabbage, simmer for 15 minutes until tender. Stir in 1/2 cup cream cheese, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and pork, cooking for 3 minutes. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for an Eastern European-inspired dish (Slimming Eats).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 28g protein, 20g fat, 15g carbs, 4g fiber, 700mg sodium.

5. Southeast Asian Sweet and Sour Cabbage

Tangy cabbage with a tamarind-vinegar sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Bacon4 slicesSmoky flavor
Onion1 smallSweet depth
Apple cider vinegar1/4 cupSour tang
Tamarind paste1 tbspSoutheast Asian tang
Brown sugar2 tbspSweet balance
Flour1 tbspThickener
Salt1/2 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/4 tspSubtle spice
Cilantro1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Chop 1 head cabbage and boil in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain. In a skillet, cook 4 bacon slices until crispy, about 5 minutes, remove, and crumble. In 2 tbsp bacon fat, sauté 1 diced onion for 3 minutes. Mix in 1 tbsp flour, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1/4 cup vinegar, 1 tbsp tamarind paste, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper, cooking for 2 minutes. Toss cabbage and bacon in sauce, simmer for 5 minutes, and garnish with 1 tbsp cilantro for a Southeast Asian-inspired dish (Simply LaKita). Pair with our Sauce Recipes.

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~160 kcal, 5g protein, 8g fat, 18g carbs, 4g fiber, 500mg sodium.

6. Eastern European Stuffed Whole Cabbage

A dramatic stuffed cabbage with a dill-tomato sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 large headVegetable shell
Ground beef1 lbFilling protein
Cooked rice1 cupFilling starch
Onion1 mediumSweet depth
Tomato sauce2 cupsSauce base
Egg1 largeFilling binder
Dried dill1 tspEastern European herb
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Parmesan cheese1/4 cupGarnish

Cooking Method

Core 1 large cabbage head, reserving 2 cups chopped leaves. Boil whole cabbage in salted water for 10 minutes, cool, and peel outer leaves. In a skillet, sauté 1 diced onion in 1 tbsp oil for 3 minutes. Mix 1 lb ground beef, 1 cup cooked rice, 1 egg, 1 tsp dill, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and onion. Stuff cabbage shell with filling, wrap in cheesecloth, and place in a Dutch oven with chopped cabbage and 2 cups tomato sauce. Boil, then simmer for 1 hour. Slice into wedges, drizzle with sauce, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup Parmesan for an Eastern European-inspired dish (Taste of Home). Pair with our Grilled Chicken Recipes.

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 20g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbs, 5g fiber, 800mg sodium.

7. Eastern European Cabbage Rolls

Savory rolls with a caraway-tomato sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headLeaf wraps
Ground beef1 lbFilling protein
Cooked rice1/2 cupFilling starch
Tomato sauce2 cupsSauce base
Onion1 smallSweet depth
Egg1 largeFilling binder
Worcestershire sauce1 tbspUmami flavor
Caraway seeds1/2 tspEastern European spice
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Boil 1 head cabbage for 8-10 minutes, cool, and peel 12 leaves. In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup cooked rice, 1 egg, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 diced onion, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp caraway seeds. Place 2 tbsp filling in each leaf, roll tightly, and place in a baking dish. Pour 2 cups tomato sauce over rolls, cover, and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1.5 hours. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for an Eastern European-inspired dish (Girl Heart Food).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~300 kcal, 18g protein, 12g fat, 25g carbs, 4g fiber, 700mg sodium.

8. Jewish Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup

Tangy soup with a caraway-lemon finish.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Onion1 mediumSweet depth
Carrots2 mediumSweet crunch
Tomato paste2 tbspRich flavor
Canned tomatoes1 can (14 oz)Sauce base
Vegetable broth6 cupsSoup base
Brown sugar2 tbspSweet balance
Apple cider vinegar1/4 cupSour tang
Caraway seeds1/2 tspJewish spice
Lemon juice1 tbspBright finish

Cooking Method

In a large pot, sauté 1 diced onion in 1 tbsp oil for 3 minutes. Add 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1/2 tsp caraway seeds, and cook for 1 minute. Stir in 1 head chopped cabbage, 2 sliced carrots, 1 can tomatoes, 6 cups vegetable broth, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1/4 cup vinegar. Boil, then simmer for 25 minutes until tender. Stir in 1 tbsp lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley for a Jewish-inspired soup (Simply Recipes).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~120 kcal, 3g protein, 2g fat, 25g carbs, 5g fiber, 600mg sodium.

9. American One-Pot Cabbage Casserole

Hearty casserole with a Cajun kick.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Ground beef1 lbProtein base
White rice1 cupStarchy filler
Tomato paste2 tbspRich flavor
Canned tomatoes1 can (14 oz)Sauce base
Onion1 mediumSweet depth
Creole seasoning1 tbspCajun spice
Water2 cupsCooking liquid
Cheddar cheese1 cupMelty topping
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer

Cooking Method

In a large pot, cook 1 lb ground beef with 1 diced onion and 1 tbsp Creole seasoning for 5 minutes until browned. Drain fat. Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 can tomatoes, 1 cup rice, 2 cups water, 1 tsp salt, and 1 head chopped cabbage. Boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until rice is cooked. Top with 1 cup shredded cheddar, cover until melted, about 3 minutes, for an American-inspired casserole (Cheeky Kitchen).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 20g protein, 18g fat, 40g carbs, 5g fiber, 800mg sodium.

10. Southern U.S. Smothered Cabbage with Ham

Comforting cabbage with a smoky ham flavor.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Ham1/2 lbSmoky protein
Potatoes2 mediumStarchy filler
Onion1 mediumSweet depth
Chicken broth3 cupsCooking liquid
Apple cider vinegar1 tbspTangy finish
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté 1 diced onion for 3 minutes. Add 1/2 lb diced ham and 1 minced garlic clove, cooking for 2 minutes. Stir in 1 head chopped cabbage, 2 diced potatoes, 3 cups chicken broth, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Boil, then simmer with the lid on for 15 minutes. Remove lid, cook for 10 minutes until tender, and stir in 1 tbsp vinegar. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for a Southern U.S.-inspired dish (EatingWell).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~200 kcal, 12g protein, 8g fat, 22g carbs, 4g fiber, 700mg sodium.

11. Scottish Rumbledethumps Pie

Comforting potato and cabbage pie with a mustard note.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1/2 headVegetable base
Potatoes2 lbsStarchy base
Cheddar cheese1 cupCheesy topping
Unsalted butter1/4 cupRichness
Whole milk1/2 cupCreamy texture
Dijon mustard1 tspScottish tang
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Chives1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Peel and boil 2 lbs potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes, then mash with 1/4 cup butter, 1/2 cup milk, 1 tsp mustard, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Boil 1/2 head chopped cabbage for 5 minutes, drain, and mix with mashed potatoes. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with 1 cup shredded cheddar, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden. Garnish with 1 tbsp chives for a Scottish-inspired pie (Tinned Tomatoes).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~250 kcal, 8g protein, 12g fat, 30g carbs, 4g fiber, 500mg sodium.

12. Eastern European Beef and Cabbage Stew

Rich stew with a caraway-tomato base.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headVegetable base
Beef stew meat1 lbProtein base
Potatoes2 mediumStarchy filler
Tomato sauce1 cupRich flavor
Beef broth4 cupsStew base
Onion1 mediumSweet depth
Celery2 ribsCrunchy texture
Caraway seeds1/2 tspEastern European spice
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a large pot, brown 1 lb beef stew meat in 1 tbsp oil for 5 minutes. Add 1 diced onion, 2 chopped celery ribs, and 1/2 tsp caraway seeds, cooking for 3 minutes. Stir in 1 head chopped cabbage, 2 diced potatoes, 1 cup tomato sauce, 4 cups beef broth, and 1 tsp salt. Boil, then simmer for 2.5 hours until meat is tender. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for an Eastern European-inspired stew (Allrecipes).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~300 kcal, 20g protein, 10g fat, 30g carbs, 5g fiber, 800mg sodium.

13. Asian Low-Carb Cabbage Dumplings

Healthy dumplings with a sesame-soy dip.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headLeaf wraps
Ground pork1 lbFilling protein
Onion1 smallSweet depth
Garlic2 clovesAromatic base
Ginger1 tspAsian spice
Soy sauce1 tbspUmami flavor
Sesame oil1 tspNutty flavor
Cilantro2 tbspFresh herb
Salt1/2 tspFlavor enhancer
Scallions1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Boil 1 head cabbage for 8-10 minutes, cool, and peel 12 large leaves. In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground pork, 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, and 1/2 tsp salt. Place 2 tbsp filling in each leaf, roll tightly, and steam for 15 minutes until cooked. Serve with a soy-sesame dipping sauce and garnish with 1 tbsp scallions for an Asian-inspired dish, perfect with our Healthy Meal Plans (Delish).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~250 kcal, 20g protein, 15g fat, 10g carbs (net), 3g fiber, 600mg sodium.

14. Irish Colcannon Soup

Creamy potato-cabbage soup with a chive accent.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1/2 headVegetable base
Potatoes2 mediumStarchy base
Leeks2 mediumSweet depth
Bacon4 slicesSmoky flavor
Vegetable broth4 cupsSoup base
Heavy cream1/2 cupCreamy texture
Butter2 tbspRichness
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Chives1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

In a large pot, cook 4 bacon slices until crispy, about 5 minutes, remove, and crumble. In the bacon fat, melt 2 tbsp butter and sauté 2 sliced leeks for 3 minutes. Add 1/2 head chopped cabbage, 2 diced potatoes, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until tender. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and crumbled bacon, cook for 5 minutes, and garnish with 1 tbsp chopped chives for an Irish-inspired soup (Closet Cooking). Pair with our Vegetarian Recipes for a meat-free version.

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~220 kcal, 5g protein, 12g fat, 25g carbs, 4g fiber, 600mg sodium.

15. Eastern European Cabbage Pigs in Blankets

Juicy cabbage rolls with a fennel-tomato sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Green cabbage1 headLeaf wraps
Ground pork1 lbFilling protein
Cooked rice1/2 cupFilling starch
Tomato sauce1 cupSauce base
Onion1 smallSweet depth
Egg1 largeFilling binder
Fennel seeds1/2 tspEastern European spice
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Boil 1 head cabbage for 8-10 minutes, cool, and peel 12 large leaves. In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground pork, 1/2 cup cooked rice, 1 egg, 1 diced onion, 1/2 tsp fennel seeds, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Place 2 tbsp filling in each leaf, roll tightly, and place in a baking dish. Pour 1 cup tomato sauce over rolls, cover, and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for an Eastern European-inspired dish (Go Cook Yummy).

Yield: 4 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~320 kcal, 20g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbs, 4g fiber, 700mg sodium.


Cooking Tips for Boiled Cabbage

Selecting Cabbage

Choose firm, heavy cabbage heads with crisp leaves for the best texture when boiled. Green or red varieties work well, as noted in our Vegetarian Recipes (Serious Eats).

Enhancing Flavor

Boil in broth or season with global spices like caraway, fennel, or tamarind to elevate flavor. Add butter, cream, or bacon for richness in comfort dishes.

Cooking Techniques

Boil briefly (5-10 minutes) to retain texture, and use the cooking liquid for sauces or soups to maximize flavor and nutrients.


Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Presentation Ideas

Serve cabbage dishes in rustic bowls with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a global aesthetic. Use colorful platters for rolls or dumplings to evoke worldwide cuisines.

Beverage Pairings

Pair with a Scandinavian aquavit, Irish stout, or Southeast Asian iced tea to complement the diverse flavors, as featured in our Drinks.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for balance, and finish with our Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls for dessert.


Video Tutorial

Master boiled cabbage dishes with this inspiring video, adaptable to our global recipes for perfect results.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why Boil Cabbage?

Boiling softens cabbage, making it tender and ideal for soups, rolls, or sides, while absorbing global flavors from broth or spices.

Can I Use Red Cabbage Instead of Green?

Yes, red cabbage works well, offering a vibrant color and slightly sweeter flavor, perfect for dishes like sweet and sour cabbage.

How Do I Prevent Overcooking Cabbage?

Boil for 5-10 minutes and check for tenderness to avoid mushiness, especially for rolls or dumplings.

Are These Recipes Suitable for Dietary Restrictions?

Many are vegetarian or adaptable, like Colcannon Soup, and low-carb options like dumplings cater to various diets (Vegetarian Recipes).

Which Global Boiled Cabbage Dish Will You Try First?

Scandinavian Boiled Cabbage Irish Colcannon Soup Asian Cabbage Dumplings

Vote and share your global creation on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees!


Final Thoughts

These **15 best boiled cabbage recipes** from *Mangoes and Palm Trees* transform the versatile cabbage into a global culinary celebration, from Scandinavian-Inspired Boiled Cabbage to Eastern European Cabbage Pigs in Blankets. With unique recipes drawing on worldwide traditions, these **global boiled cabbage dishes** offer hearty, healthy, and flavorful options for sides, mains, or soups. Experiment with cabbage varieties and global spices, share your creations on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees, and explore more at our Recipes or Desserts. Discover your culinary style at our Personality Quiz Hub. Bon appétit!

We’d Love to Hear From You! Thank you for visiting Mangoes and Palm Trees! Please keep comments kind and respectful—happy commenting! 😊

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