Cabbage Kielbasa Supper

Cabbage Kielbasa Supper Recipe - Traditional Polish Dish

Region / culture: Poland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8-9 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Cabbage Kielbasa Supper is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of cabbage, potatoes, onion, and polish sausage in a delicious and satisfying one-pot meal.

History

This recipe has its roots in traditional Eastern European cuisine, where cabbage and kielbasa are commonly used ingredients. It is a simple and affordable dish that has been passed down through generations as a comforting and filling meal.

Ingredients

8 cups coarsely shredded cabbage
3 medium potatoes, cut into 0.5-inch cubes
1 medium onion, chopped
1.75 tsp salt
0.25 tsp pepper
14.5 oz (411 g) can chicken broth
2 lb (907 g) fully cooked kielbasa or polish sausage, cut into serving-size pieces

How to prepare

In a 5 qt (4.73 liter) slow cooker, combine the cabbage, potatoes, onion, salt, and pepper.
Pour the broth over all the ingredients.
Place the sausage on top (the slow cooker will be full, but the cabbage will cook down).
Cover and cook on low for 8 to 9 hours or until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is heated through.

Variations

Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version of the dish.
Spice it up with some red pepper flakes or paprika for a kick of heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the potatoes into small, uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.

- Coarsely shredding the cabbage will help it cook down and blend well with the other ingredients.

- For added flavor, you can brown the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cabbage Kielbasa Supper with a side of crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a touch of freshness to the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking allows the flavors of the cabbage, potatoes, and sausage to meld together and develop a rich and savory taste. The long cooking time ensures that the vegetables are tender and the sausage is heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of sausage or kielbasa in this recipe, depending on your preference. You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for Cabbage Kielbasa Supper ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Simply combine the cabbage, potatoes, onion, salt, and pepper in a container and refrigerate until needed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cabbage Kielbasa Supper in a large serving bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. You can also drizzle some olive oil or balsamic vinegar for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of pickles. A glass of cold beer or a glass of white wine complements the flavors of the cabbage and sausage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers of Cabbage Kielbasa Supper can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cabbage Kielbasa Supper contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cabbage Kielbasa Supper contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cabbage Kielbasa Supper contains approximately 30 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cabbage Kielbasa Supper contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cabbage is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Potatoes provide potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. Kielbasa is a good source of protein and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the polish sausage. It may also contain sulfites and other allergens depending on the brand of sausage used.

Summary

Cabbage Kielbasa Supper is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

Cabbage Kielbasa Supper is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the flavors of cabbage, potatoes, onion, and polish sausage in this satisfying one-pot meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a cold winter day, and my dear friend Anna invited me over for dinner. As I entered her cozy kitchen, the smell of onions and garlic wafted through the air, making my mouth water. I watched as Anna chopped cabbage and sliced kielbasa, her hands moving with practiced ease.

I asked her what she was making, and she smiled and said, "Cabbage Kielbasa Supper. It's a family recipe passed down from my grandmother." My curiosity piqued, I offered to help her cook, eager to learn the secrets of this delicious meal.

As we worked together, Anna shared the story behind the recipe. She told me how her grandmother, a Polish immigrant, brought the recipe with her to America when she came over on the boat. It was a simple yet hearty dish, perfect for feeding a large family on a budget.

Anna's grandmother had learned to make Cabbage Kielbasa Supper from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the steaming cabbage and kielbasa. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a perfect combination of savory sausage and tender cabbage. I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the years, I practiced making Cabbage Kielbasa Supper, tweaking the recipe here and there until it was just right. I added more onions and garlic for flavor, a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick, and a pinch of caraway seeds for that authentic Polish touch.

I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious it was. They couldn't believe how such simple ingredients could come together to create such a flavorful and satisfying meal.

As I continued to make Cabbage Kielbasa Supper, I started to experiment with different variations. I added potatoes and carrots for a heartier version, or swapped out the kielbasa for smoked sausage for a smokier flavor. Each new twist on the recipe brought me closer to perfecting it.

One day, I was hosting a dinner party for my grandchildren, and I decided to serve Cabbage Kielbasa Supper as the main course. As they sat around the table, eagerly digging into their plates, I watched their faces light up with delight. They loved the meal just as much as I did, and I knew that the recipe had been a success.

As I sat back in my chair, content and full of joy, I realized that this recipe had become more than just a dish to me. It was a connection to the past, a way to honor my heritage and keep my family's traditions alive.

And so, every time I make Cabbage Kielbasa Supper, I think of Anna and her grandmother, of the generations of women who came before me, passing down this recipe with love and care. I am grateful for their wisdom and their generosity in sharing this delicious meal with me, and I will continue to cook it for years to come, passing it on to the next generation so that they too can experience the magic of Cabbage Kielbasa Supper.