Fried Cabbage, Ham & Noodles
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Dive into Comfort: A Delightful Dish
Have you ever craved a meal that combines simplicity, heartiness, and nostalgia? I certainly have, and that’s when Fried Cabbage, Ham & Noodles (known as Haluski) enters the picture. This comforting dish, with its roots in Eastern European cuisine, is a fantastic way to use up leftover ham while enjoying a warm, flavorful bowl that evokes that “home-cooked” feeling. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or just when the weather turns a bit chilly, this dish is not just satisfying; it’s also incredibly delicious!
Reasons to Try It
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Fried Cabbage, Ham & Noodles is the epitome of comfort food—quick, budget-friendly, and utterly kid-approved. With a balance of textures and flavors, this dish combines crispy cabbage, tender ham, and hearty egg noodles, making it ideal for anyone craving a wholesome meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something easy yet satisfying. You’ll especially love it for…
"A weekday lifesaver! This dish came together so quickly, and everyone in my family gobbled it up!"
How This Recipe Comes Together
Step-by-Step Overview
This recipe is all about layering flavors while keeping the cooking process straightforward. You’ll start by browning the ham for that delightful crust, sautéing the veggies to develop their flavors, and then melding everything together with buttery noodles. The overall steps to make this dish include sautéing, boiling, and tossing—making it a perfect meal for those who love to get dinner on the table without a fuss.
What You’ll Need
Key Ingredients
To create this comforting dish, gather these ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups fully cooked ham (cubed small)
- 2 cups white onion (diced)
- 1 clove fresh garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 pounds cabbage (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 8 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 8 ounces dry egg noodles
Feel free to swap out the ham for turkey or add in extra veggies, such as carrots or bell peppers, for more color and nutrition!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Method
Brown the Ham: In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the ham cubes and cook for about 1-2 minutes until they start to brown slightly.
Sauté Vegetables: Add 2 more tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Then, toss in the minced garlic and onion, sautéing for roughly 2 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Cabbage Mixture: Stir in the cabbage, olive oil, salt, and both types of pepper. Mix well, cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium, and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Noodles: While the cabbage is cooking, boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Finish: Once the cabbage is tender, add the drained noodles to the skillet and mix everything together. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Enjoy!: Serve hot, and dig into this delightful bowl of comfort.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
How to Plate and Pair
Serving Fried Cabbage, Ham & Noodles is all about presentation. A simple bowl topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish. To complement the dish, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the flavors and add freshness to the meal.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture, or use a microwave, stirring occasionally.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Pro Chef Tips
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to introduce new spices or herbs to tailor the flavor to your preferences. A pinch of smoked paprika or fresh sage can offer exciting variations.
- Get Creative with Add-ins: Besides the usual ingredients, consider adding peas, corn, or even a dash of soy sauce for an extra punch.
Creative Twists
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ham with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of butter for sautéing.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or sauté sliced jalapeños for added heat.
Your Questions Answered
Common Questions
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh cabbage is encouraged for the best texture and flavor, and it cooks down beautifully.What’s the prep time for this dish?
The prep time is about 10 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes of cooking time, making it quite quick!Can Fried Cabbage, Ham & Noodles be frozen?
While it can be frozen, it’s best enjoyed fresh as the texture may change. If freezing, portion it out and store in airtight containers.
Fried Cabbage, Ham & Noodles is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort that brings everyone together. Enjoy making it your own!
Fried Cabbage, Ham & Noodles
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the ham cubes and cook for about 1-2 minutes until they start to brown slightly.
- Add 2 more tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Then, toss in the minced garlic and onion, sautéing for roughly 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the cabbage, olive oil, salt, and both types of pepper. Mix well, cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium, and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the cabbage is cooking, boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Once the cabbage is tender, add the drained noodles to the skillet and mix everything together. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, and dig into this delightful bowl of comfort.
