Hearty Cabbage and Sausage Stew: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Guide
This Cabbage and Sausage Stew recipe is an absolute delight, brimming with fresh ingredients and offering a profoundly hearty and comforting experience. Perfect for chilly evenings, this wholesome dish promises to warm you from the inside out and satisfy even the most robust appetites.
The Inspiration Behind Our Favorite Stew
This incredible recipe comes from my talented Internet friend Julia’s latest culinary masterpiece, “Paleo Power Bowls.” The moment I laid eyes on this particular recipe, a profound sense of culinary urgency washed over me. I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that I needed to prepare this dish as soon as humanly possible.
My decision to dive into this Cabbage and Sausage Stew was twofold. Firstly, its visual appeal in the cookbook was simply irresistible—a vibrant, rustic blend of ingredients that promised deep flavor. Secondly, Toronto, my beloved city, was still experiencing the lingering embrace of a very cold season. And what better excuse is there to indulge in the warming embrace of stews and soups for dinner, almost every single day? As a true aficionado of hearty, simmering pots, I often find myself turning to classics like my Healthier Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe, my speedy Instant Pot Beef Stew Recipe, or even my comforting Instant Pot Chicken Stew. This cabbage and sausage version quickly joined their ranks as a new family favorite.
For those unfamiliar, Julia is the brilliant mind behind The Roasted Root, a blog I’m sure many of you have heard about and perhaps even followed. Her blog is a treasure trove of wholesome, delicious recipes. Her cookbook, “Paleo Power Bowls,” is equally impressive, filled with 100 easy-to-follow, nourishing meals designed for modern life. The recipes are not only quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy families, but they are also entirely gluten-free and cover every meal of the day – from breakfast to lunch and dinner. This Cabbage and Sausage Stew is a shining example of her philosophy: simple ingredients, maximum flavor, and undeniable comfort.
Why This Cabbage and Sausage Stew Will Become a Staple
Beyond its delicious taste, this stew offers numerous benefits that make it a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan:
- Incredibly Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the sausage and fiber from the cabbage and other vegetables, this stew will keep you satisfied for hours, making it an excellent choice for a substantial dinner.
- Simple to Prepare: Despite its rich flavor, the cooking process is straightforward, requiring minimal fuss. It’s truly an “almost one-pot” meal that comes together without complicated steps.
- Nutrient-Dense: Cabbage is a powerhouse of vitamins (C and K) and antioxidants, while carrots provide beta-carotene. Bone broth adds beneficial collagen and minerals, making this a meal that nourishes your body.
- Whole30 & Paleo Compliant: For those following specific dietary protocols, this stew fits perfectly into Whole30 and Paleo lifestyles, provided you choose compliant bacon and sausage. It’s a delicious way to stick to your health goals without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile and Customizable: While the core recipe is fantastic, it’s also wonderfully adaptable. You can easily tweak the spices, add different vegetables, or swap out the protein to suit your preferences.
- Budget-Friendly: Cabbage and sausage are typically affordable ingredients, making this a cost-effective meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition.
It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, providing not just sustenance but also a sense of well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find joy in preparing and savoring this delightful stew.
How to Make This Cabbage and Sausage Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this flavorful Cabbage and Sausage Stew is surprisingly simple, and the process is designed for ease and efficiency. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps to ensure a perfect, delicious outcome every time:
-
Prepare Your Vegetables for Success
Begin by meticulously chopping your carrots, onions, and cabbage. Uniformity in your chop is key here, as it ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the stew. If you’re looking to shave off some precious cooking time, feel free to opt for pre-chopped vegetables available at most grocery stores. Remember, good prep is the foundation of a great stew.
-
Render the Bacon to Perfection
In a large, sturdy stockpot, place your chopped thick-cut bacon. Heat it over medium-high heat, allowing it to cook for approximately 2 minutes. The goal here is for the bacon to begin softening and releasing its delicious fats, rendering out just enough to add depth of flavor without becoming overly crisp at this stage. Crucially, if you’re adhering to a Whole30 diet, ensure your bacon choice is compliant with those guidelines.
-
Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Sausage
Once the bacon has softened, add the finely chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic to the stockpot. Continue to cook these aromatics for about 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened to an al dente texture—they should be tender but still retain a slight bite. Next, gently move the softened vegetables to one side of the stockpot, creating space for the star of the show: the ground turkey Italian sausage. Add the sausage along with all the delightful spices listed in the recipe (paprika, oregano, sea salt). Allow the sausage to brown beautifully on one side for about 2 minutes, developing a rich, caramelized crust. Then, flip the sausage and continue cooking for another minute, breaking it up as it cooks. Finally, integrate the sausage thoroughly with the softened vegetables, mixing well to combine all the savory flavors.
-
Simmer to Flavorful Harmony
Pour in the chicken bone broth and add the drained diced tomatoes to the mixture in the stockpot. Stir everything together gently to ensure all ingredients are well-distributed. Cover the stockpot and increase the heat, bringing the soup to a full, rolling boil. This initial boil is essential for melding the flavors and initiating the cooking process for all the ingredients.
-
Introduce the Cabbage and Final Cook
Once the stew is boiling vigorously, carefully add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pot. It might seem like a lot of cabbage at first, but it will cook down significantly. Replace the cover on the stockpot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the stew to cook for approximately 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. During this time, the cabbage will soften and become tender, absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the broth, sausage, and spices.
-
Season and Serve!
After 40 minutes, remove the cover and give the stew a taste. This is your moment to adjust the seasoning to perfection. Add more sea salt to taste if needed, or a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick. Once seasoned to your liking, your hearty and comforting Cabbage and Sausage Stew is DONE! Ladle it into bowls and prepare to enjoy a truly satisfying meal.
Beyond the Stew: More Cabbage Creations
If you find yourself with extra cabbage after preparing this delicious stew, don’t let it go to waste! Cabbage is an incredibly versatile vegetable, and there are many other delightful ways to incorporate it into your meals. For a lighter, refreshing option, I highly recommend trying my Grilled Chicken Cabbage Salad. It’s crisp, flavorful, and perfect for a warm day. Alternatively, for a unique and savory side dish, these Cabbage Steaks are a fantastic choice, offering a caramelized exterior and tender interior that will surprise and delight you. You’ll absolutely love these innovative ways to enjoy cabbage!
Print Recipe
Cabbage and Sausage Stew
Olivia Ribas
6 bowls
15 minutes
50 minutes
1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- ½ yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground turkey Italian sausage (Whole30 compliant if desired)
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 32 oz chicken bone broth
- 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 large head cabbage, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Place the chopped bacon in a large stockpot and heat over medium-high. Cook until bacon begins to soften and sweat, about 2 minutes. Add the onion, carrots, and garlic and continue cooking until vegetables have softened but are still al dente, about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Scoot the vegetables off to one side of the stockpot and add the ground turkey Italian sausage, paprika, oregano, and sea salt. Allow meat to brown on one side for 2 minutes, then flip it and continue cooking 1 minute more, breaking it apart.
- Add the bone broth and diced tomatoes, cover, and bring the soup to a full boil.
- Add the cabbage and replace the cover. Cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage has cooked down and is tender.
- Taste the stew for flavor and add additional sea salt to taste if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Even Cooking: Make sure to chop your carrots and sausage uniformly so they cook evenly and integrate well into the stew.
- Cabbage Prep: When preparing the cabbage, ensure you remove any tough outer leaves and the core for the best texture.
- To Store: Store the cooled Cabbage and Sausage Stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It often tastes even better the next day!
- To Reheat: Reheat individual portions of the stew gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly warm. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
- Freezing: This stew freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition
Serving: 1/6 of recipe, Calories: 180kcal, Carbohydrates: 10g, Protein: 9g, Fat: 12g, Cholesterol: 20mg, Sodium: 959mg, Potassium: 332mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 5g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Customization and Serving Suggestions for Your Stew
One of the best aspects of this Cabbage and Sausage Stew is its adaptability. Feel free to make it your own with these creative variations:
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika and oregano, or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional content and flavor by adding other vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even a handful of spinach in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Protein Alternatives: While turkey Italian sausage is lean and delicious, you can experiment with other ground meats such as lean ground pork, chicken, or even beef. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Herbaceous Touches: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill stirred in just before serving can brighten the flavor profile beautifully.
- Creamy Finish: For a richer, creamier stew, stir in a dollop of full-fat coconut milk (for Paleo/Whole30) or heavy cream just before serving.
This hearty stew is satisfying enough on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments:
- Crusty Bread: A thick slice of crusty gluten-free bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth.
- Simple Side Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the stew.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option that complements the stew perfectly, serve it over a bed of fluffy cauliflower rice.
- Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: A comforting bowl of mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes can be a delightful base for this stew.
No matter how you choose to customize or serve it, this Cabbage and Sausage Stew is designed to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
FAQs About Cabbage and Sausage Stew
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this delicious stew:
- Can I make this stew ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep. The flavors often deepen and meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- What kind of sausage should I use?
- The recipe calls for ground turkey Italian sausage, which offers a lean yet flavorful profile. You can choose mild or hot Italian sausage based on your preference. If you’re not strictly Paleo or Whole30, regular ground pork Italian sausage works wonderfully too.
- Is this stew spicy?
- The recipe, as written, is mildly seasoned with paprika and oregano, giving it a savory depth rather than heat. If you prefer a spicy stew, feel free to add red pepper flakes during cooking or a spicy garnish when serving.
- Can I use a different kind of broth?
- While chicken bone broth is recommended for its nutritional benefits and rich flavor, you can certainly use regular chicken broth or even vegetable broth if that’s what you have on hand. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
- How can I make this stew vegetarian?
- To adapt this recipe for vegetarians, omit the bacon and use a plant-based sausage alternative (ensure it’s compliant with your dietary needs). Swap chicken bone broth for vegetable broth. You might also want to add extra mushrooms or beans for more substance.