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New Year's Cabbage for Luck and Prosperity

Bring in the New Year with this soulful Southern-style cabbage—simple ingredients, big flavor, and a delicious tradition.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Side Dish, Vegetable
Cuisine: American, Southern

Ingredients
  

  • 1 head of cabbage
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt (plain, seasoned or smoked)
  • fresh black pepper to taste
  • 1½-2 cups chicken broth

Method
 

  1. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the hard central stem.
  2. Cut each quarter into 1-inch strips and set them aside.
  3. Melt the butter in a large pot and add the olive oil.
  4. Add the cabbage and remaining ingredients to the pot.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring, then immediately reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.
  6. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cabbage reaches your desired tenderness. Avoid overcooking to prevent a slimy texture.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

Notes

Ingredient Swap: I love using smoked salt when I have it, as it adds a wonderful, subtle depth that reminds me of slow-cooked Southern greens without the long wait.
Storage Tip: This cabbage keeps beautifully.
I store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days, and I find the flavors meld even more.
Make-
Ahead Advice: You can absolutely cut the cabbage a day in advance.
I store the strips in a zip-top bag in the fridge to make the final cook a quick 15-minute affair.
Common Mistake: The biggest error is overcooking.
I pull it off the heat when it's just tender with a slight bite, as it continues to soften from residual heat.
Mushy cabbage is a sad thing.
Serving Suggestion: This is my go-to side for pork chops or a simple roasted chicken.
A splash of apple cider vinegar at the table brightens everything up perfectly.
Broth Note: I've made this with vegetable broth many times for my vegetarian friends, and it's just as delicious.
The key is using a good, flavorful broth.