Name: Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
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; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 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 fresh herbs for garnish; Extra grated Parmesan cheese

If you’re on the lookout for a comforting and delicious vegetarian dish, look no further than Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth. This delightful recipe encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness with tender cabbage wedges simmered to perfection in a creamy, cheesy broth enriched with fresh herbs. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth to your kitchen, making it a great choice for family dinners or a cozy night in.

One of the fantastic aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. Made with only a handful of ingredients, each element plays a key role in creating a wonderfully balanced flavor profile. The savory notes of the Parmesan cheese meld beautifully with the aromatic herbs and crisp cabbage, offering a delightful mouthfeel and vibrant taste. Not only is it satisfying to eat, but it’s also quick to prepare, allowing you to whip up a delightful meal in just around 40 minutes!

Furthermore, this dish holds nutritional benefits, being rich in fiber and vitamins, making it a wholesome addition to your diet. Whether you’re looking for a hearty main course or a side dish to accompany your meal, Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth

Delicious Flavor: The creamy Parmesan broth combined with fresh herbs adds a flavorful depth that is genuinely comforting.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills, making it suitable for home cooks of all levels.
Healthy & Wholesome: With cabbage as the star ingredient, this dish is filled with nutrients and fiber, making it a healthy choice.
Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like carrots or potatoes, enhancing texture and flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Be it family dinners, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this dish fits all occasions.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you step into the culinary magic of making Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space and gather all the necessary tools. Start by ensuring you have a large pot with a lid, as this will be essential for simmering the cabbage. A sturdy wooden spoon will come in handy for stirring, while a sharp knife will help you cut the cabbage and onions correctly. Having measuring spoons and cups ready will streamline the process, especially when adding herbs and broth.

Additionally, don’t forget to have a cutting board on hand for efficient chopping. Before you begin cooking, take some time to gather all the ingredients: fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and your vegetables. Having everything at arm’s reach will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

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
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
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 fresh herbs for garnish
Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbly and hot, add the thinly sliced yellow onion. Sauté the onions for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to become soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor foundation of your broth. After the onions have softened, add the minced garlic—don’t forget to stir it for about 1 minute until fragrant. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen and create eager anticipation for the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

Once the onions and garlic are aromatic, it’s time to add the cabbage wedges. Carefully arrange the wedges in the pot, ensuring they’re somewhat submerged in the mixture. Next, pour in the vegetable broth and toss in the bay leaf, thyme, and freshly ground black pepper. Bringing this mixture to a gentle simmer is essential for enhancing the flavors. After it simmers, cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 20 minutes. Remember to turn the cabbage wedges halfway through to ensure they cook evenly, becoming tender while holding their shape.

Step 3: Add Parmesan and Herbs

After the cabbage has simmered and tenderized, carefully remove the lid. Now it’s time for the pièce de résistance—stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the broth to simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. As the cheese melts, it will create a wonderfully creamy texture, enhancing the dish significantly. Discard the bay leaf and taste the broth; adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Finally, stir in the fresh parsley and chives for a refreshing burst of flavor.

Variations

Protein: Add chickpeas for extra protein, or serve with a side of grilled chicken for a non-vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Feel free to add chopped carrots, potatoes, or even bell peppers for extra texture and color.
Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat, or use lemon zest for a bright citrus twist.

Cooking Notes

For richer flavor, consider roasting the cabbage wedges before adding them to the broth.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth with crusty bread or a side of garlic toast for dipping into the flavorful broth.
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a perfect pairing to balance the richness of the broth.

Tips

Ensure the butter is adequately melted before adding the onions to prevent them from browning.
Adjust the amount of Parmesan cheese according to your preference for creaminess.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 220
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?

It’s recommended to use fresh cabbage for the best texture and flavor, but if you must use frozen, ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained.

What can I serve with Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth?

This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the broth and cabbage ahead of time and reheat before serving. However, it’s best to add the herbs and cheese just before serving for optimal flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you’re using gluten-free vegetable broth and ensuring no other gluten-containing ingredients are involved.

Conclusion

Herby Cabbage in Parmesan Broth is a delightful dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and health benefits—all in one pot! With its creamy texture and herbal fragrance, it’s bound to become a household favorite. This recipe invites you to experiment with variations and encourages sharing with loved ones around the dining table. So, gather your ingredients, and allow the irresistible aroma of herbs and cheese to fill your home. Don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments below and share this recipe with fellow cooking enthusiasts. Enjoy every bite!