ham & cabbage recipe
The Best ham & cabbage recipe
I love cooking ham and cabbage because it’s a simple yet flavorful dish that my whole family enjoys. The recipe has its roots in traditional Irish cuisine, where cabbage was a staple vegetable during the winter months when other vegetables were scarce.
I’ve adapted this recipe to suit our tastes, adding some onions and garlic for extra flavor. The key to this recipe is to cook the cabbage until it’s tender but still retains its crunch, which is achieved by cooking it in a mixture of butter and oil until it’s lightly browned.
This technique not only adds flavor but also helps to preserve the nutrients in the cabbage. My kids love helping me prepare this dish, as they get to participate in chopping the onions and stirring the pot.
It’s a great way to spend quality time together while learning about food and cooking. We often have this dish on special occasions like holidays and family gatherings, but it’s also a regular part of our weekly meal rotation.
The leftovers are just as delicious, making it a perfect recipe for meal prep or for serving at a potluck dinner. I’ve found that the combination of ham, cabbage, and spices creates a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone enjoys.

Irish Ham & Cabbage Stew
A hearty and comforting dish featuring tender ham and crisp cabbage, perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe combines savory flavors and a rich broth, making it a classic comfort food.
🥘Ingredients
Ingredients
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
This ham and cabbage recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday meal or just a regular Tuesday night dinner. The leftovers store well in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for later use.
When reheating, simply sauté the mixture with some more butter or oil until it’s hot and bubbly. Serve over rice or with some crusty bread for a filling meal that everyone will love.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Irish Ham & Cabbage Stew
Q: What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?
Nice question! For this recipe, you can use either green or red cabbage – both work beautifully.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked ham instead of raw ham?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked ham if you prefer. Just be sure to slice it thinly so it cooks evenly.
Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This recipe comes together quickly – about 20-25 minutes from start to finish.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Sure thing! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or potatoes – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
No, this recipe contains ham so it’s not suitable for vegetarians. You could try substituting with a plant-based alternative if you want a similar flavor profile.