What ingredients do I need to make traditional Russian stewed cabbage?

To make traditional Russian stewed cabbage, you will need fresh white cabbage, onions, carrots, tomatoes or tomato paste, vegetable oil or butter, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Some recipes include smoked meats like sausage or bacon for extra flavor, but the basic dish relies on simmering the vegetables slowly to bring out their natural sweetness and a slightly tangy taste from the tomatoes.

How do I properly stew cabbage to get the best flavor and texture?

To stew cabbage properly, start by sautéing chopped onions and carrots until soft. Add sliced cabbage and cook it briefly to reduce rawness. Incorporate tomatoes or tomato paste, spices, and a bit of water or broth, then cover and simmer on low heat for about 40-60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and stew until the cabbage is tender but not mushy, allowing the flavors to meld.

Can Russian stewed cabbage be made vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, Russian stewed cabbage can easily be prepared vegetarian or vegan by omitting any meat and using vegetable oil instead of butter. You can enhance flavor by including mushrooms, smoked paprika, or adding vegetable broth. This makes a hearty, plant-based dish while keeping the authentic taste and texture of traditional stewed cabbage.

How should I store leftover Russian stewed cabbage, and how long will it last?

Leftover Russian stewed cabbage should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 5 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it's too thick. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months, though texture may slightly change upon thawing.

What side dishes pair well with Russian stewed cabbage?

Russian stewed cabbage pairs well with hearty side dishes such as boiled potatoes, rye bread, buckwheat, or mashed potatoes. It also complements grilled or roasted meats, sausages, and smoked fish. The mild acidity and tender texture of the cabbage balance rich and savory mains, making it a versatile side in Eastern European cuisine.

Russian Stewed Cabbage Recipe With Savory Tender Flavors

Name: Russian Stewed Cabbage
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Russian
Ingredients: One medium to large head of cabbage; 1/2 to 1 pound (about 225 to 450 grams) pork, such as pork steak, chop, or loin; 1 medium onion; 2 large carrots; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 4 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 bay leaves; 2 teaspoons salt (divided); 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 6 tablespoons olive oil

Description

🥬 Russian Braised Cabbage Recipe offers a hearty, savory meal packed with tender pork and soft cabbage, perfect for comforting family dinners.
🍲 The rich flavors from sour cream, ketchup, and slow cooking create a delicious dish that improves when reheated, making great leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

One medium to large head of cabbage

1/2 to 1 pound (about 225 to 450 grams) pork, such as pork steak, chop, or loin

1 medium onion

2 large carrots

2 tablespoons sour cream

4 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon brown sugar

2 bay leaves

2 teaspoons salt (divided)

1/2 teaspoon pepper

6 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1-Getting started: with Russian stewed cabbage is straightforward and fun, especially if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. First, shred the cabbage finely and sprinkle it with 1 teaspoon of salt, then scrunch it for about 30 seconds to help it soften and release its juices. This step makes the cabbage more tender and ready to absorb flavors as it cooks.

2-Next, dice the onion and grate the carrots, then sauté them in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for 5 minutes until they turn soft and fragrant. Stir in 2 tablespoons of sour cream to create a creamy mix, and combine this with the prepared cabbage for a base that’s packed with taste. Cut the pork into small cubes and cook them in another 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat for 5 minutes until they’re browned, then add them to the cabbage mixture.

3-Mix in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 4 tablespoons of ketchup thoroughly to blend all the flavors together. Add the final 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a skillet or Dutch oven, include the cabbage mixture along with 2 bay leaves, cover, and cook over medium heat for 35 to 40 minutes. Stir every 15 minutes and reduce to medium-low heat after 20 minutes, adjusting ketchup or salt as needed, then remove the bay leaves before serving.

Notes

🌱 For a vegetarian option, omit the pork and adjust cooking time for vegetables.
⏳ Stir every 15 minutes during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even braising.
🌟 This dish tastes even better the next day when reheated as flavors deepen.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
Method: Sautéing, Braising
Cuisine: Russian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving

Keywords: Russian Braised Cabbage,Braised Cabbage Recipe,Savory Cabbage,Pork and Cabbage