The traditional steamed or fried cabbage just got a flavor makeover with smoked cabbage wedges. A tender, smoky, and incredibly tasty side dish that makes great use of the extra space in your pellet grill.
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A few weekends ago, we decided to experiment with smoking several things at the same time, and cabbage was one of those ingredients. We were amazed at how well vegetables absorb the smoky flavor.
The low-and-slow cooking caramelized the outer leaves while tenderizing the inner ones. Plus, we had an easy prepped ingredient for stews, salads, and coleslaws.
Wood Flavors Best for Cabbage
The consensus for most expert smokers is that mild fruitwoods like apple and cherry offer a more subtle smokiness that complements the cabbage. I was using pecan for smoking the beef brisket the last time (which gave me plenty of time to smoke several veggies). Alder and hickory are also great for bolder BBQ vibes.
How to Smoke Cabbage
- Prep the cabbage and make the seasoning blend.
- Smoke and enjoy.
Recipe Tips and Twists
- We used a variety of herbs for my recipe, but you can go minimalist with just olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Stuffed, smoked cabbage is super easy. Cut the core and a little extra flesh to make a good-sized hole in the center of a large head of cabbage. Fill the hole with a mix of cooked Italian sausage, diced onion, and a little tomato sauce. Set it up on a foil ring to keep it stable, drape it with a couple of slices of bacon, and smoke for about 3 hours.
- If I don’t have time to smoke the cabbage, we braise it and add a little home-smoked salt.
Make-Ahead and Leftover Makeovers
Smoked cabbage lasts 3-5 days in the fridge or 3-6 months in the freezer. Reheat it in the oven or microwave for a fast side or enjoy it cold.
This versatile veg makes a great ingredient in a lot of things. Chop leftovers and add them to salads, wraps, sandwiches, stir-fries, and pasta dishes.
What to Serve With Smoked Cabbage
My favorite pairings to include in the smoker are flank steak and chicken thighs. More sides that pair well are Southern baked mac and cheese, sweet potato biscuits, and garlic rice. What’s for dessert? Southern 7UP pound cake is a must.
More Family-Pleasing Cabbage Recipes to Try
By Imma