Save There is something deeply comforting about a humble vegetable being transformed into an elegant centerpiece. This Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth does exactly that, simmering tender green cabbage wedges in a savory, cheesy liquid that highlights the natural sweetness of the vegetable while infusing it with aromatic herbs. It is the perfect cozy dish for when you want something light yet incredibly flavorful.
Save This recipe elevates green cabbage from a standard staple to a star ingredient. By slowly simmering the wedges in vegetable broth and finishing with a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, the broth becomes slightly creamy and irresistibly savory. The addition of fresh thyme, parsley, and chives ensures every bite is bright and fragrant.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and cut into 8 wedges
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Extra chopped herbs for serving
- Extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large, wide pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Step 2
- Arrange the cabbage wedges in the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 3
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, turning the cabbage once, until the cabbage is tender but not falling apart.
- Step 4
- Remove the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the broth becomes slightly creamy. Discard the bay leaf.
- Step 5
- Taste and add salt if needed. Stir in the parsley and chives.
- Step 6
- Serve the cabbage wedges in shallow bowls, ladled with broth. Garnish with extra herbs and Parmesan.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
When simmering the cabbage, ensure the pot is wide enough to let the wedges sit in a single layer if possible. This helps them cook evenly and maintain their shape when you turn them halfway through the cooking process.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra richness, add a splash of cream when you stir in the Parmesan cheese. You can also experiment with different herbs depending on what you have on hand; dill or basil make excellent alternatives to parsley and chives.
Serviervorschläge
Serve the cabbage wedges in shallow bowls with plenty of the savory broth. To make it a heartier meal, serve with thick slices of crusty bread for dipping. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc.
Save Whether you serve it as a light dinner or a sophisticated side dish, this Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth is sure to become a favorite. The combination of simple techniques and vibrant flavors results in a truly satisfying meal that celebrates seasonal produce at its best.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Yes, you can substitute green cabbage with savoy cabbage or even napa cabbage. Adjust cooking time as needed since different varieties have varying textures and densities.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cabbage and broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast. The flavor will be different but still delicious and savory.
- → What can I serve this with?
This pairs beautifully with crusty bread, roasted chicken, grilled fish, or as part of a vegetarian meal alongside quinoa or pasta. It also works well as a light main dish on its own.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Consider adding carrots, celery, or fennel at the beginning when you cook the onions. You can also stir in kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- → How do I keep the cabbage wedges from falling apart?
Keep the core intact when cutting the cabbage into wedges, as it helps hold the layers together during cooking. Also, turn the wedges gently during simmering to prevent breaking.