Get ready to cozy up with a warm bowl of comfort food, courtesy of Ireland’s beloved cabbage! With its rich history and cultural significance, it’s no wonder that Irish cabbage recipes have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. From hearty stews to creamy gratins, we’ve gathered 20 delicious and comforting Irish cabbage recipes to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, you’ll discover a variety of mouthwatering dishes that showcase the versatility of cabbage in Irish cuisine. From classic colcannon to innovative stir-fries, each recipe is carefully crafted to warm your belly and your soul. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Irish cooking or looking for new ideas to spice up your meal routine, this collection has something for everyone.
So grab a cup of tea, put on your comfiest apron, and let’s dive into the world of Irish cabbage recipes!
Traditional Irish Colcannon with Cabbage and Potatoes
Colcannon is a beloved Irish dish that’s simple yet flavorful. This recipe combines mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, onions, and garlic for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-5 medium-sized potatoes
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced cabbage and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
4. Mash the cooked potatoes with a fork or potato masher. Add the sautéed cabbage mixture to the potatoes and mix well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Braised Irish Cabbage with Bacon and Onions
This classic dish from Ireland’s rich culinary heritage is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions come together in a rich and flavorful braise that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of Irish cabbage (about 2 lbs)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head and slice into thin strips.
3. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, then remove and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the garlic, butter, and chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Add the cabbage strips to the skillet and stir to coat with the braising liquid.
7. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Irish Cabbage and Potato Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this Irish Cabbage and Potato Soup is a classic recipe that combines the natural sweetness of cabbage and potatoes with a hint of smokiness from the bacon. It’s a simple and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and potatoes to the pot, stirring well to combine.
4. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Corned Beef and Cabbage Stew
This classic stew is a comforting blend of tender corned beef, crisp cabbage, and flavorful vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef brisket
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the corned beef on all sides over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, cabbage, carrots, and potato. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Pour in beef broth and add mustard if using. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until corned beef is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/4 hours (10 minutes on stovetop + 2-1/2 hours in oven)
Creamy Irish Cabbage with Butter and Parsley
This comforting recipe is a twist on traditional boiled cabbage, elevated by the richness of butter and the freshness of parsley. It’s an easy and flavorful accompaniment to your favorite Irish dishes or as a standalone side.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, garlic, chicken broth, and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Stir in some chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Irish Cabbage with Garlic and Thyme
Roasted Irish Cabbage with Garlic and Thyme: A flavorful and tender side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Irish cabbage, chopped into wedges
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped cabbage, minced garlic, and sprigs of thyme.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the cabbage mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Irish Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Rice
Savor the flavors of Ireland with this hearty dish that combines tender cabbage leaves, savory ground beef, and fluffy rice. This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head and blanch in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, flour, and butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. To assemble the rolls, place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface, then spoon the beef mixture onto the center of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Irish Cabbage Stir-Fry with Sausage
Get ready to spice up your St. Patrick’s Day celebration with this bold and flavorful stir-fry! This dish combines the classic combination of sausage and cabbage with a kick of heat from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Irish sausage (such as bangers or breakfast sausage), sliced
– 2 cups shredded green cabbage
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp caraway seeds for added depth of flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage, jalapeños, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Apple Slaw with Honey Mustard Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the natural sweetness of apples with the tanginess of honey mustard, all wrapped up in a crunchy Irish cabbage medley. Perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Cheesy Irish Cabbage Gratin
This creamy gratin is a delicious twist on traditional boiled cabbage, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion when you want to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cabbage to the skillet and cook until slightly tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Transfer the cabbage mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheese.
5. Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle with paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cabbage is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Carrot Mash
This comforting mash is a twist on the classic potato dish, replacing spuds with sweet and crunchy cabbage and carrots. The result is a flavorful and nutritious side that pairs perfectly with your favorite Irish fare.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring 2 inches of water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the cabbage and add it to a mixing bowl with the grated carrots, butter, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until you reach your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Irish Cabbage with Ham Hock
This traditional Irish recipe is a hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. With tender cabbage, rich ham hock broth, and savory pork, this dish will become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of green cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1 cup chicken or beef broth
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 ham hock, bone-in
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped cabbage, pork chunks, broth, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add garlic and ham hock to the mixture; stir until combined.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low), 4-6 hours (high)
Irish Cabbage and Leek Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Irish cuisine, made with tender cabbage, sweet leeks, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 large leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped leeks and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped cabbage to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until slightly softened.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until cabbage is tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pan-Fried Irish Cabbage with Butter and Nutmeg
A classic Irish side dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. This recipe is a great accompaniment to your favorite Irish dishes, such as corned beef and cabbage or shepherd’s pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, cored and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
3. Sprinkle the nutmeg over the cabbage and stir to combine.
4. Continue cooking the cabbage for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Potato Pancakes
These crispy, golden pancakes are a delicious twist on traditional Irish colcannon, with the added bonus of being easy to make and perfect for breakfast or brunch. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cabbage and potatoes with a hint of onion and flour for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the cabbage, potatoes, and onion.
2. Add the flour and mix until just combined.
3. Beat in the egg.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat with a small amount of oil or butter.
5. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture into the pan.
6. Flatten slightly to form a pancake shape.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Bacon Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and rich garlic butter to create a comforting Irish-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon and butter until melted.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the cabbage mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pickled Irish Cabbage with Juniper Berries
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pickled cabbage with the unique, slightly sweet and piney taste of juniper berries. Perfect as a side dish or used as an ingredient in various recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– 10-12 juniper berries, crushed or 1 tsp (5g) juniper berry extract
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cabbage and crushed juniper berries.
2. In a separate pot, bring the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cabbage mixture, ensuring all cabbage is covered.
5. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating or serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooling time)
Irish Cabbage and White Bean Stew
This comforting stew is a staple of Irish cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening. The sweetness of the cabbage and beans pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 can of cannellini beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind. Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add the shredded cabbage, cannellini beans, chicken broth, and caraway seeds to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Sausage Casserole
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the classic Irish combination of cabbage and sausage with a rich and savory sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 4 Irish sausages (such as bangers), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the sausage and onion in butter until browned.
3. Add the garlic, cabbage, chicken broth, heavy cream, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Irish Cabbage and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This hearty stir-fry combines the natural sweetness of Irish cabbage with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of Irish cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sliced cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Ireland with these hearty cabbage recipes. From classic colcannon to comforting stews and soups, there’s something for every comfort food lover. Discover traditional dishes like Braised Irish Cabbage with Bacon and Onions, as well as creative twists like Spicy Irish Cabbage Stir-Fry with Sausage. Enjoy creamy gratins, crispy pancakes, and even pickled cabbage recipes. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying side dish or a main course, these 20 Irish cabbage recipes are sure to warm your belly and your heart.
