Simple and Tasty Steamed Cabbage With Ham
This steamed cabbage with ham is a Caribbean-style side dish made with leftover ham, fresh vegetables, and bold seasoning. It’s an easy cabbage recipe that’s flavorful, flexible, and perfect for everyday meals.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion sliced
- 1/4 Scotch bonnet pepper sliced
- 4 sprigs thyme leaves only
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove garlic smashed
- 1 1/2 cups ham chopped
- 1 lb cabbage rough chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 small carrot julienned
- 1 small bell pepper rough chopped
- 3/4 teaspoon curry powder
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil on a medium flame in a pan with a lid. Add the onion, scotch bonnet pepper, garlic, thyme, and black pepper. Turn the heat down to low and cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and everything becomes fragrant.
- Add the chopped ham and stir to combine. Continue cooking on medium-low heat to allow some of the fat from the ham to render and flavor the dish.
- Add the salt and cabbage to the pot, followed by the water. Stir well to combine, then cover the pot to begin steaming.
- After 3 minutes, top with the bell pepper and carrot and sprinkle on the curry powder. Add any other vegetables you are using. Cover and continue cooking, but on low heat.
- After another 4 minutes, taste and adjust the salt to your liking. Cook a little longer if you prefer softer vegetables.
- Serve hot as a side to your favorite Caribbean meals or use as a filling for a simple sandwich.
Video
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions About Steamed Cabbage
Can I make steamed cabbage without ham?Yes, absolutely. This steamed cabbage recipe works very well without ham and can easily be kept vegan. Omit the ham and rely on the aromatics, herbs, and curry powder for flavor. You can also add mushrooms or zucchini to give the dish more body. What type of cabbage works best for steamed cabbage?
Green cabbage is the best choice for classic Caribbean-style steamed cabbage. It softens nicely while still holding a bit of texture and does a great job of absorbing flavor during the steaming process. How do I prevent the steamed cabbage from getting soggy?
The key is not overcooking it and using just a small amount of water. Steamed cabbage should be tender but still have a slight bite. Keep the heat on medium-low and cook with the lid on just long enough to soften the cabbage. Is steamed cabbage supposed to be spicy?
Steamed cabbage does not have to be spicy as it's a personal preference. The heat level is completely up to you. The scotch bonnet pepper adds flavor more than heat when used in small amounts, and you can leave it out entirely if you prefer a mild dish. Can I make steamed cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, steamed cabbage can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat so the cabbage does not overcook or lose its texture. If you plan on eating this dish at a later date, may I recommend that you cook 1/2 of the time to help maintain the integrity of the vegetables and reheat a few minutes longer when you're ready to dine.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!