Braised Cabbage with Horseradish Cream: A Rich, Comforting Side Dish

A Unique Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Imagine a dish that’s warm, creamy, and full of flavor—one that takes humble cabbage and transforms it into something truly special. Braised cabbage with horseradish cream is exactly that! The slow braising makes the cabbage tender and buttery, while the horseradish cream adds a bold, tangy kick that perfectly balances the richness.

If you’ve never tried cooking cabbage this way, you’re in for a treat. This dish is simple to prepare, yet sophisticated enough to serve alongside roasted meats, seafood, or even on its own. Whether you’re looking for a hearty winter side dish or a new way to enjoy cabbage, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Braised Cabbage with Horseradish Cream

Before you start, gather your ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Green cabbage	1 head (about 2 ¼ lbs)	The main ingredient, providing a mild sweetness and hearty texture
Heavy cream	1 ½ cups	Adds richness and creaminess
Freshly grated or prepared horseradish	⅓ cup	Brings a bold, spicy contrast to the creaminess
Dry white vermouth or white wine	⅓ cup	Enhances depth of flavor with a slight acidity
Salt	To taste	Balances flavors and enhances natural sweetness
Black pepper	To taste	Adds mild heat and seasoning
Unsalted butter	1 tbsp, cut into small pieces	Gives a silky finish and enhances richness

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Braised Cabbage with Horseradish Cream

1. Prepare the Cabbage

• Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage.
• Cut the cabbage into four wedges, leaving the core intact to help hold the pieces together during cooking.

2. Sauté the Cabbage

• Heat a large skillet or braising pan over medium heat.
• Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, place the cabbage wedges in the pan, cut-side down.
• Sear for 3-5 minutes per side, until lightly golden brown.

3. Deglaze with White Wine

• Pour the dry vermouth or white wine into the pan to deglaze it, scraping up any browned bits.
• Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

4. Add the Cream and Simmer

• Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream.
• Season with salt and black pepper, stirring gently to coat the cabbage.
• Cover the pan and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.

5. Add the Horseradish

• Stir in the grated horseradish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Transfer the braised cabbage to a serving dish, spooning the creamy sauce over the top.
• Garnish with a little extra black pepper or fresh herbs, if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Braised Cabbage Recipe

• Deep, rich flavor – The slow braising enhances the cabbage’s natural sweetness.
• Creamy yet bold – The horseradish cream adds a tangy, slightly spicy contrast.
• Simple ingredients, gourmet taste – It’s easy to make but feels like a restaurant-quality dish.
• Perfect for meal prep – Make it ahead of time and reheat for a quick, flavorful side.
• Versatile – Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, seafood, or even a simple bowl of rice.

Pro Tips for the Best Braised Cabbage

• Choose the right cabbage – A fresh, firm head will hold its shape better when braised.
• Don’t rush the searing – Browning the cabbage adds depth and richness to the dish.
• Use fresh horseradish if possible – It has a stronger, fresher flavor compared to the jarred version.
• Let the sauce thicken naturally – Simmer uncovered for the last few minutes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
• Add a splash of lemon juice – A small amount can brighten up the flavors.

Variations to Try

1. Cheesy Horseradish Cabbage

• Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese before serving for an extra creamy, cheesy touch.

2. Spicy Braised Cabbage

• Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.

3. Vegan Horseradish Cabbage

• Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use vegan butter.

4. Mustard-Infused Braised Cabbage

• Stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard along with the horseradish for a tangy, sharp flavor.

5. Smoky Braised Cabbage

• Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce for a subtle smokiness.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (Based on 4 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	3 g
Fat	24 g
Carbohydrates	10 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	5 g

(Values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)

Best Ways to Serve Braised Cabbage with Horseradish Cream

• Alongside Roast Chicken – The creamy cabbage complements juicy, roasted meats.
• With Grilled Salmon – The tangy horseradish pairs beautifully with seafood.
• As a Steak Side Dish – Adds a rich, bold contrast to a grilled or pan-seared steak.
• With Mashed Potatoes – The sauce soaks into the potatoes for an indulgent side.
• Topped with Toasted Nuts – Add some crushed walnuts or pecans for a little crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep in a sealed container in the fridge. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

3. Can I use red cabbage instead?

Yes! Red cabbage works well but may take a little longer to cook.

4. Can I freeze braised cabbage?

Cream-based dishes don’t always freeze well, but if you must, let it cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Try coconut milk, half-and-half, or a mix of milk and butter for a lighter version.

6. How can I adjust the horseradish flavor?

Start with ¼ cup of horseradish and add more to taste. If it’s too strong, balance it with a little more cream.

Final Thoughts: Try Braised Cabbage with Horseradish Cream Today!

This braised cabbage with horseradish cream is the perfect side dish for any meal—rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.

Now it’s your turn! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this creamy, tangy, and delicious cabbage dish.

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