If you like dirty rice, you’ll like dirty cabbage too. It’s full of flavor and has a little bit of a kick.
If you’re looking for something to serve for Mardi Gras, this dirty cabbage recipe needs to go to the top of your list. It’s a low-carb riff on dirty rice (a staple of Louisiana Cajun cuisine) in which chopped cabbage replaces the traditional rice. Like dirty rice, this dish gets its name from its “dirty” appearance that comes from the inclusion of ground beef and many seasonings. Serve this hearty dish as-is with a big slice of cornbread or cornbread muffins, or serve it as part of a spread of Cajun-inspired foods.
Dirty Cabbage Ingredients
Ground beef: Ground beef adds some heart to this cabbage recipe. Use a 90% lean blend.
Andouille sausage: This spicy smoked pork sausage is a staple in Creole and Cajun cuisine.
Aromatics: This recipe is made with the Cajun holy trinity of onion, green bell pepper and celery. Minced garlic adds an additional punch of flavor, and red bell peppers add a little sweetness.
Green cabbage: You will need a medium head of green cabbage to make this recipe.
Seasonings: The dirty cabbage is seasoned with a spicy combination of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper and crushed red pepper flakes.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the meat
Heat the olive oil in a 6-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, about four to six minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to a paper towel-lined plate.
Add the sliced andouille sausage to the Dutch oven and cook it until it’s browned, about six to eight minutes, stirring often. Transfer it to the plate with the browned beef.
Step 2: Saute the aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion, red and green peppers and celery to the Dutch oven. Cook them until they’re softened, about four to five minutes. Add the minced garlic and saute it until it’s fragrant, about 30 to 60 seconds.
Step 3: Add the cabbage
Add the shredded cabbage to the Dutch oven. Season it with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper and crushed red pepper flakes.
Add the ground beef and sausage, and stir to combine everything. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is softened and tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Serve it immediately.
Dirty Cabbage Variations
Add tomatoes and chiles: Deepen the flavor and add a little more heat by stirring in a can of diced tomatoes and green chiles, such as Rotel.
Use a different meat: Swap ground turkey or ground pork for the ground beef. Or use chopped, cooked bacon in place of the sausage.
How to Store Dirty Cabbage
Cool the dirty cabbage completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge.
How long does dirty cabbage last?
Dirty cabbage lasts for three to four days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze dirty cabbage?
Yes, you can freeze dirty cabbage. Allow the dirty cabbage to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe storage container or bag. Store it in the freezer for up to three months. Allow the dirty cabbage to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it.
How should you reheat dirty cabbage?
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