Easy Instant Pot Cabbage: Your New Favorite Buttery Side Dish
This Instant Pot Cabbage recipe transforms a humble vegetable into an incredibly delicious and tender side dish with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a healthy addition to any meal!
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Cabbage Recipe!
If you’re looking for a simple, fast, and incredibly flavorful vegetable side, your search ends here. This Instant Pot Cabbage recipe is an absolute winner, making cabbage surprisingly delightful even for those who might typically shy away from it. With just a few minutes of prep, your Instant Pot works its magic, turning crisp green cabbage into a tender, buttery sensation.
The beauty of using the Instant Pot lies in its ability to cook vegetables to perfection in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. The high-pressure environment ensures that the cabbage becomes wonderfully soft and tender without turning mushy, while locking in all the delicious flavors. We combine classic, comforting ingredients like aromatic minced garlic, savory yellow onion, and rich butter to create a side dish that complements almost any main course.
My journey with the Instant Pot began with amazing recipes like Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, and I quickly became a convert. Trying cabbage in the Instant Pot was a revelation – it truly brings out the best in this versatile vegetable. Whether you’re already a fan of buttered cabbage or seeking a new low-carb, healthy side dish option, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s not just easy; it’s consistently delicious, delivering perfectly cooked cabbage every single time.
Essential Ingredients for Tender Instant Pot Cabbage
Creating this flavorful side dish requires only a handful of common ingredients. The quality of each component contributes significantly to the final taste, so choosing fresh and good quality items will elevate your meal. Below is a detailed look at what you’ll need and some helpful notes.
Ingredients & Notes
- Green Cabbage: This recipe specifically calls for green cabbage due to its classic flavor and ideal texture when pressure cooked. It softens beautifully and absorbs the buttery, savory notes perfectly. Red cabbage is not recommended as a direct substitute here, as its flavor can be more bitter and its color tends to bleed, which might not be desirable for this particular dish. Opt for a small to medium head of fresh green cabbage for the best results.
- Yellow Onion: A small yellow onion provides a sweet and mellow base flavor that pairs exquisitely with the buttery cabbage. When sautéed, it becomes translucent and releases a subtle sweetness that balances the dish. Avoid harsh-flavored onions like red onion, which can overpower the delicate cabbage.
- Garlic: For the most vibrant flavor, use minced fresh whole garlic cloves. Pre-minced garlic from a jar can sometimes lack the pungent freshness that truly makes this dish shine. Approximately 4 cloves, finely minced, will infuse the cabbage with a wonderful aromatic depth.
- Vegetable Broth: This is crucial for creating the steam needed for pressure cooking and for infusing the cabbage with additional savory flavor. One cup is generally sufficient, providing enough liquid without making the cabbage watery. Chicken or beef broth can also be used for a different flavor profile, or even water if absolutely necessary (though broth is preferred for taste).
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you complete control over the sodium content of your dish. This allows you to season with salt to your personal preference without worrying about it becoming too salty from the butter. A generous amount of butter is key to achieving that signature rich, comforting flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste. Always season gradually and adjust at the end. For black pepper, we highly recommend using fresh ground black pepper if you have it. Its robust, freshly cracked aroma and flavor far surpass pre-ground pepper, adding a significant depth to the finished dish.
How to Make Cabbage in the Instant Pot: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Making this buttery cabbage in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfectly tender and flavorful side dish every time.
- Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage. Begin by removing the tough outer leaves of the green cabbage. Then, carefully remove the core. Once cored, roughly chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces that are relatively uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Set the chopped cabbage aside.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics. Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function (normal setting). Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the inner pot. Once the butter has melted and is shimmering, add the minced garlic and thinly sliced yellow onion. Cook these aromatics for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Be vigilant during this stage, as the Instant Pot can heat up quickly and garlic can burn easily, leading to a bitter taste. If anything sticks to the bottom, add a splash of broth and scrape it with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot.
- Step 3: Add Liquids and Cabbage. After sautéing, hit “Cancel” on your Instant Pot to turn off the Sauté function. Pour the vegetable broth into the Instant Pot, then add the remaining butter. Carefully place the chopped cabbage on top of the broth and butter. You don’t need to stir it in at this point; simply layer it on top.
- Step 4: Pressure Cook. Secure the lid onto the Instant Pot, making sure it’s properly sealed. Turn the sealing valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) setting on High Pressure and set the cook time for 7 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep. Press “Cancel” to stop the heating process.
- Step 5: Release Pressure and Serve. Immediately perform a Quick Release by carefully moving the sealing valve to the “Venting” position. Be cautious of the hot steam escaping. Once the float valve (pin) has dropped completely, indicating that all pressure has been released, you can safely remove the lid. Add salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Stir the buttered cabbage gently to combine the seasonings and serve immediately with a slotted spoon to drain any excess liquid.
Cabbage Size and Recipe Adjustments
The original recipe is calibrated for a small to medium-sized head of green cabbage. As illustrated in the pictures, a small head typically fills the Instant Pot about halfway, allowing for optimal cooking. However, if you’re working with a larger head of cabbage, don’t worry – you can easily adjust the recipe for perfect results.
Adjusting for a Larger Cabbage Head:
- Cook Time: Surprisingly, the cook time on high pressure generally remains the same at 7 minutes. The Instant Pot will simply take a little longer to come to pressure with a larger volume of food, which accounts for the increased cooking requirement.
- Vegetable Broth Amount: The amount of vegetable broth (1 cup) should also remain the same. This recipe provides plenty of liquid for steam generation and flavor without making the cabbage overly wet.
- Butter: For a larger head of cabbage, consider increasing the butter by an additional 1-2 tablespoons. This will ensure that the added volume of cabbage is equally coated in that delicious buttery flavor, maintaining the richness of the dish.
Always ensure that the cabbage does not fill your Instant Pot beyond the maximum fill line, even when chopped, to allow for proper pressure building and safe operation.
Achieving Your Desired Cabbage Texture: Cook Time Tips
This buttered cabbage recipe, cooked for 7 minutes on high pressure in the Instant Pot, yields a perfectly tender consistency that many find ideal. However, personal preference for cabbage texture can vary. Here’s how to customize the cooking time to match your desired outcome:
- For Firmer Cabbage (with a slight bite): If you prefer your cabbage to have a bit more crunch and retain a firmer texture, decrease the Instant Pot cooking time by 1-2 minutes. A cooking time of 5-6 minutes on high pressure should achieve this.
- For Softer Cabbage (melt-in-your-mouth): If you enjoy a very soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth cabbage, increase the pressure cook time by 1-3 minutes. Cooking for 8-10 minutes on high pressure will result in a more thoroughly softened texture.
Remember that the Instant Pot takes time to come to pressure, and this initial heating period also contributes to the cooking process. A quick release is recommended to stop the cooking quickly and prevent overcooking, especially if you prefer firmer cabbage.
Substitutions & Flavor Variations
While this recipe is fantastic as is, it’s also incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with these substitutions and variations to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary needs.
- Onion Alternatives: While yellow onion offers a balanced sweetness, you can experiment with other mild onions. Sweet onions are an excellent choice for a similar flavor profile. Shallots, finely sliced or minced, would also provide a delicate, refined onion flavor. However, we do not suggest using red onion as its stronger, harsher flavor and color could overwhelm the buttered cabbage.
- Broth Options: The vegetable broth provides a great savory base, but you can easily substitute it with other types of broth you have on hand. Chicken broth will add a richer, more umami flavor, while beef broth can give it a deeper, heartier taste. If you’re out of broth, water can be used, though you might want to increase seasonings slightly to compensate for the flavor difference. For a vegetarian or vegan option, ensure you stick to vegetable broth.
- Make it Vegan/Dairy-Free: This recipe can easily be made vegan or dairy-free by substituting the unsalted butter with a high-quality vegan butter alternative. The texture and flavor will still be wonderfully rich and satisfying.
- Add Heat: For a subtle kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onion during the sauté step.
- Herbs & Spices: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can be stirred in at the end for a burst of freshness. A dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of caraway seeds can also add an interesting depth of flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: For a truly indulgent side, cook some chopped bacon in the Instant Pot before the onions, then remove it and crumble it over the finished cabbage. Use a tablespoon of the bacon fat instead of butter for sautéing the aromatics.
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Cabbage
This buttery Instant Pot cabbage is an incredibly versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Its rich, savory flavor and tender texture make it a comforting addition to almost any meal. Here are some ideas for how to serve it:
- With Roasted Meats: It’s a classic accompaniment to roasted chicken, pork loin, or a beef roast. The cabbage perfectly complements the richness of the meat.
- Sausages & Brats: Serve alongside grilled or pan-fried sausages, kielbasa, or bratwurst. The flavors marry beautifully, reminiscent of traditional German or Eastern European comfort food.
- Fish & Seafood: Believe it or not, this cabbage also pairs well with baked or pan-seared fish like cod or salmon, adding a savory vegetable component without being too heavy.
- Hearty Stews & Soups: It can be served on the side of a hearty stew or soup, offering a textural contrast and a boost of vegetable goodness.
- As a Low-Carb Main: For a light, low-carb meal, you can even enjoy a larger portion of this cabbage with a fried egg on top, or crumbled bacon mixed in.
- With Potatoes or Rice: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or fluffy white rice to soak up all the delicious buttery broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Instant Pot Cabbage
Q: Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
A: While you technically can, it’s generally not recommended for this specific recipe if you want the classic buttered cabbage flavor and appearance. Red cabbage has a slightly different, often more bitter, flavor profile and its vibrant color tends to bleed significantly when cooked, which can turn the liquid and other ingredients a purplish hue. For the best results and traditional taste, stick to green cabbage.
Q: Do I need to add water to the Instant Pot?
A: This recipe uses 1 cup of vegetable broth, which is sufficient liquid to create the steam needed for pressure cooking. You do not need to add additional water. The broth also contributes significantly to the flavor of the dish.
Q: How do I prevent my cabbage from becoming mushy?
A: The 7-minute high-pressure cook time specified in the recipe is designed to produce tender, but not mushy, cabbage. Key steps to prevent mushiness include:
- Quick Release: Always perform a quick release immediately after the cooking time is up. This stops the cooking process quickly.
- Even Chopping: Ensure your cabbage pieces are roughly the same size for uniform cooking.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling your Instant Pot, as this can affect cooking consistency.
If you prefer a firmer texture, you can reduce the cook time by 1-2 minutes as suggested in the “Cook Time Tips” section.
Q: Can I freeze cooked Instant Pot cabbage?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked cabbage. However, the texture may become slightly softer upon thawing and reheating. To freeze, allow the cabbage to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container or freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: What size Instant Pot is best for this recipe?
A: This recipe is suitable for a 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot. A small head of cabbage will fit comfortably in either. If you are scaling up the recipe for a larger crowd or using a very large head of cabbage, an 8-quart Instant Pot would provide more room.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is a great base for adding other vegetables. Carrots, sliced or diced, can be added along with the cabbage for extra sweetness and color. Small potato chunks (cut into 1-inch pieces) could also be added for a more substantial dish, though you might need to increase the cook time by a minute or two depending on potato size for desired tenderness.
Explore More Easy Instant Pot Recipes
If you love the convenience and efficiency of your Instant Pot, you’ll be thrilled with these other fantastic recipes that make cooking quick and delicious meals a breeze. Expand your Instant Pot repertoire with these favorites:
- Instant Pot Broccoli: Perfectly steamed, vibrant green broccoli in minutes.
- Instant Pot Creamy Pasta: A one-pot wonder for a comforting and rich pasta dish.
- Instant Pot Steamed Cauliflower: Achieve tender, perfectly cooked cauliflower with minimal fuss.
- Instant Pot Stir Fry: A quick and healthy stir-fry cooked entirely in your pressure cooker.
- Instant Pot Creamy Sweet Potato Pasta: A unique and delicious plant-based pasta dish.
Instant Pot Cabbage
This easy buttered cabbage recipe is made in the instant pot in minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 small head of green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté”. Add 1 tablespoon of the butter along with the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring often, for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the vegetable broth and remaining 4 tablespoons of butter to the Instant Pot.
- Place the chopped cabbage on top, then put the lid on the Instant Pot. Set the Instant Pot to “Sealing”.
- Cook the cabbage on high pressure (Manual) for 7 minutes, press “Cancel”, then do a quick release.
- Once the pin drops completely, remove the lid, and add salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Fresh ground pepper is the best choice here! Serve with a slotted spoon. (See notes below for more tips)
Notes
- If your head of cabbage is larger, you can add 1-2 more tablespoons of butter, but the vegetable broth should still be fine at 1 cup.
- For softer cabbage, cook an additional 1-3 minutes on high pressure. For cabbage with more crunch, you can lower the time to 5-6 minutes, if you want.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 134kcal, Carbohydrates: 12g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 10g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.4g, Cholesterol: 25mg, Sodium: 186mg, Potassium: 295mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 6g, Vitamin A: 524IU, Vitamin C: 57mg, Calcium: 71mg, Iron: 1mg
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