Wonder Cabbage

As the temps stay low and the grocery budget tightens, I find myself turning to the humble cabbage for a cheap and uber-healthy cooking staple. To me, this is the ultimate in comfort food. The cruciferous family of vegetables may make your kitchen stink, but they're humble heroes in my book. Here's a few of my favorite recipes featuring cabbage.

Simple Middle Eastern Salad

1/2 large head of cabbage, cored and shredded
2 large tomatoes, diced
1 large onion, diced
1 English cucumber, diced (optional)
1/2 cup bottled lemon juice
1/4 cup EVOO
Salt, pepper, cayenne to taste
2 tbsp crushed dried mint

Basically, put everything in a large bowl and toss. Great paired with rice & lentils, or served next to broiled chicken legs or a good salmon fillet.

Quick Pierogie Dinner

1 pack Mrs. T's pierogies (your choice of flavor)
1 pack Hebrew National franks, sliced on the bias
1/2 head cabbage, cored and shredded
2 tbsp butter, divided

In a large pot of boiling water, cook pierogies according to directions, drain. Melt 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet, add cabbage and cover until wilted. Move to a large platter and keep warm. Melt 1 tbsp butter in skillet, add pierogies and franks. Cook until browned. Serve over cabbage.

Halushki

1 head cabbage
8 oz. package egg noodles
1 large onion, chopped
4 tbsp butter
Salt & pepper to taste

Shred cabbage and boil in a little water for about 6 minutes. Cook noodles until soft. Drain. Brown onion in 4 tablespoons butter. Mix all ingredients together. Season with salt and pepper.

Cabbage is also a wonderful addition to beef vegetable soup. At $0.50/lb, it's a bargain that can't be beat!

Have you hugged your cabbage today?