Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Polish culinary paradise with the most mouthwatering, set-it-and-forget-it meal that will have your family begging for seconds! This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Kielbasa is not just a recipe—it's a hearty, flavor-packed journey that combines tender cabbage, savory kielbasa, and a symphony of vegetables that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with rich, comforting aromas that promise a delicious dinner with minimal effort!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Polish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, slice the kielbasa into rounds, and chop the onion. Peel and slice the carrots, and mince the garlic cloves.
- In a large slow cooker, add the chopped cabbage as the base layer. This will help it cook down and become tender.
- Next, layer the sliced kielbasa evenly over the cabbage. The sausage will add flavor and richness to the dish.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots on top of the kielbasa. These vegetables will contribute sweetness and texture to the final dish.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic over the vegetables and sausage. Garlic will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients in the slow cooker. This will provide moisture and help the vegetables cook down.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt, especially if your chicken broth is already salted.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- After 6 hours, check the tenderness of the cabbage and the kielbasa. If the cabbage is soft and the flavors are well combined, the dish is ready.
- Once cooked, stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Slow Cooker Cabbage and Kielbasa hot, either on its own or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your Polish-inspired dish!
Tips
- Choose the right kielbasa: Opt for a high-quality smoked kielbasa for maximum flavor. Polish or traditional varieties work best.
- Cut vegetables uniformly: Ensure even cooking by chopping cabbage, carrots, and onions into similar-sized pieces.
- Layer strategically: Start with cabbage at the bottom to help it cook down and absorb flavors from other ingredients.
- Don't oversalt: Kielbasa and chicken broth are already salty, so go easy on additional salt.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of butter to the slow cooker.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a big batch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 354kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 30mg
