boiled ham and cabbage recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best boiled ham and cabbage recipe

I’ve been making boiled ham and cabbage for years, and it’s still one of my favorite comfort foods. There’s something about the way the tender cabbage and flavorful ham come together in a rich broth that just feels like home.

I remember my grandmother used to make it for me all the time when I was a kid, and now I love making it for my own family. It’s a simple recipe, but it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, and you can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite spices and seasonings. I like to serve it with some crusty bread on the side, which soaks up all the delicious juices.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is always a hit with them. They love watching the cabbage cook down and getting excited about all the yummy flavors that come together in the end.

As for me, I just love how it makes our whole family feel cozy and content after a long day. It’s definitely one of our go-to recipes, especially during the colder months when we’re all looking for something warm and comforting.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – this dish is packed with nutrients from the cabbage and ham, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a hearty meal without feeling too guilty.

Boiled Ham and Cabbage

4.5 from 976 votes

A classic comfort dish featuring tender ham and cabbage simmered in a savory broth. This one-pot meal is hearty, simple, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dish

2 pounds fully cooked ham, cut into large chunks
1 medium head green cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 large onion, quartered
3 cloves garlic, smashed
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the ham chunks, chicken broth, water, onion, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaf in a large pot.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 20 minutes.
3The broth should be gently bubbling.
4Add the cabbage wedges to the pot, submerging them as much as possible in the liquid.
5Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the broth back to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer, covered, for 25 to 30 minutes.
6The cabbage should be tender when pierced with a fork and the ham heated through.
7Carefully remove the ham and cabbage with a slotted spoon and transfer to a serving platter.
8Discard the bay leaf and onion quarters.
9Stir the butter into the remaining broth until melted, then season with salt to taste.
10Pour a small amount of the broth over the ham and cabbage before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Slotted spoon
Serving platter

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 1450mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a milder flavor, soak the ham in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking. You can add potatoes or carrots to the pot during the last 20 minutes of simmering for a more substantial meal.

Watch Video Of How Boiled Ham and Cabbage Works

This boiled ham and cabbage recipe is always a good idea – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want something hearty to serve at your next family gathering.

One of my favorite things about this dish is how versatile it is – you can serve it on its own or add all sorts of toppings like diced onions, sour cream, or cheddar cheese.

And don’t even get me started on how well it reheats – just toss everything back into the pot with some new broth if you need to revive leftovers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Boiled Ham and Cabbage

Q1: What is boiled ham and cabbage?

Boiled ham and cabbage is a classic comfort food dish made by simmering cured ham and cabbage in a flavorful broth until they’re tender and infused with all the delicious flavors of the seasonings. It’s often served with potatoes, carrots, or other vegetables for added nutrition and texture.

Q2: What type of ham should I use?

You can use any type of cured ham you prefer, but I find that a good-quality smoked ham or prosciutto works best in this recipe. Just be sure to slice it thinly so it cooks evenly throughout.

Q3: Can I add other ingredients to make it more interesting?

Absolutely! Some people like to add onions, garlic, or other aromatics to give their boiled ham and cabbage more depth of flavor. You can also try adding different spices or herbs to give it an extra kick.

Q4: How long does it take to cook?

This recipe is actually quite quick – you can have it ready in about 30 minutes if you’re using pre-cut cabbage and a pre-cooked ham. Just be sure to let everything simmer together until the flavors are fully absorbed.

Q5: Can I store leftovers?

Yes, boiled ham and cabbage makes great leftovers – just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for later use.

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