Get ready to transport your taste buds to the heart of Louisiana with this mouthwatering Southern-style cabbage dish that combines the rustic charm of traditional Southern cooking with the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine. This one-pan wonder brings together the crisp texture of fresh cabbage, the smoky heat of andouille sausage, and the succulent sweetness of jumbo shrimp in a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients
Metric and Imperial Measurements:
- 1 medium green cabbage (approx. 1 kg / 2.2 lbs), washed and cut into strips
- 300 g (10.5 oz) andouille sausage (or spicy smoked sausage), sliced
- 300 g (10.5 oz) peeled jumbo shrimp
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (sunflower, peanut, or other)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) chicken broth (or water)
- Fresh parsley sprigs for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
- Thoroughly wash the cabbage and cut it into thin, uniform strips.
- Set the cabbage aside while preparing other ingredients.
2. Cook the Andouille Sausage
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add sliced andouille sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Fry until the sausage is golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sear the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.
- Stir-fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp and set aside with the sausage.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
- Sauté onion, garlic, green pepper, and celery for 5 minutes until tender.
5. Cook the Cabbage
- Add cabbage to the pan and mix well with the vegetables.
- Sprinkle with paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir frequently for 5 minutes until cabbage begins to soften.
6. Combine and Finish
- Return sausage and shrimp to the pan with the cabbage.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and chicken broth.
- Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving and Nutrition
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 380 kcal
Why This Dish is a Nutritional Powerhouse
This Southern-style cabbage dish is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a nutritional treasure. Cabbage is low in calories but high in vitamins K and C, while providing a good source of fiber. The lean protein from shrimp offers essential omega-3 fatty acids, and the andouille sausage adds a punch of flavor with moderate protein content. The variety of vegetables ensures you’re getting a range of nutrients in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed white rice
- Crusty French bread
- A light, crisp green salad
This Southern-style Sautéed Cabbage with Andouille Sausage and Jumbo Shrimp is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the American South, bringing together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in one incredible dish.