Perfect Cabbage Steak Recipe (Oven Baked or Grilled)

Cabbage is often an underrated vegetable, but when it's roasted properly, it transforms into a crispy, flavorful dish that everyone will love.

If you love cabbage, this crispy roasted cabbage steak recipe is simple, yet it brings out the natural sweetness and depth of the cabbage, creating a delightful and healthy meal or side dish.

Perfect for a vegetarian meal or a crunchy addition to any BBQ, this great recipe is definitely a keeper.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cabbage
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (optional)
• 2 tbsp feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get that crispy outer layer on the cabbage while keeping it tender on the inside. A hot oven ensures even roasting for all your cabbage steaks.

Step 2: Slice the Cabbage

Cut the cabbage in half vertically, then slice each half into about 1-inch thick steaks. You want each slice to be thick enough to hold together but still have enough surface area to crisp up nicely. Place the cabbage slices on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Season the Cabbage

Drizzle olive oil over the cabbage steaks and rub it in to ensure each steak is coated evenly. Sprinkle the cabbage with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The smoked paprika will add a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cabbage. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little grated parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

Step 4: Roast the Cabbage

Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and roast the cabbage steaks for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the steaks halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get that beautiful crispy edge. You'll know they're done when they’re nicely browned and crispy on the outside, while still tender in the middle.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once your cabbage steaks are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar over the top for a touch of acidity and depth. Optionally, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese bed and fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve and eat immediately for a hot, crispy dish that will wow your guests.

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• Ham Steak Breakfast Recipe
• Broiled Ribeye Steak Recipe
• Calamari Steak Sandwich Recipe

“Cabbage can be an incredibly delicious vegetable when cooked right, and roasting it brings out all its natural sweetness and flavor.”

– Thomas Keller, Chef & Restaurateur

Recipe Notes

• Slice the Cabbage Thick: When slicing the cabbage, aim for about 1-inch thick slices. This will ensure they hold together while roasting and become crisp without falling apart.
• Don’t Skip the Flip: Flipping the cabbage halfway through the roasting process is key to achieving an evenly crispy texture on both sides.
• Add Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings. Grated parmesan, feta, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add extra flavor.
• Watch the Time: Keep an eye on your cabbage during the last few minutes of roasting. You want it golden brown and crispy, but not too charred.
• Serve Immediately: The cabbage steaks are best eaten right away while they’re still crispy and hot.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Sodium: 200mg

How to Pick the Right Cabbage

As a chef, I always say that the quality of the cabbage makes a big difference in the final dish. Here are my tips for picking the best cabbage for your recipe:

1. Look for Firm Heads: Choose a cabbage that feels firm and heavy for its size. It should not have any loose or wilting outer leaves.
2. Check the Leaves: Make sure the leaves are tightly packed and free from brown spots or damage. Healthy cabbage will have crisp, vibrant leaves.
3. Size Matters: While you can use any size cabbage, smaller heads tend to be sweeter and less bitter, making them perfect for roasting.
4. Color: Green cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can use red cabbage for a different flavor profile and a pop of color.
5. Freshness: Fresh cabbage is always preferable for roasting, as older cabbage can be tougher and may lack the natural sweetness you want in this dish.

Secret Tips for Making the Perfect Roasted Cabbage Steak

After making these cabbage steaks for years, I've picked up a few tips that make the dish even better.

• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the cabbage crisp up beautifully. Choose a good-quality, extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you can't get olive oil, use high quality butter.
• Season Well: Don’t be shy with the seasonings. Garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper are great, but feel free to experiment with your favorite spices to give the cabbage steaks a unique twist.
• Add Crunchy Toppings: For extra texture, add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds right before serving. They provide a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the tender cabbage.
• Grill for Extra Flavor: If you have a grill, try grilling the cabbage steaks instead of roasting them for a smoky flavor and a crispy char.
• Serve Fresh: Roasted cabbage steaks are best served immediately. They lose their crispiness if left to sit too long.

Best Side Dishes to Serve With

Here are some side dishes that go perfectly with your crispy cabbage steaks.

1. Quinoa Salad

A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the smoky flavor of the cabbage and adds freshness to the meal. The slight nuttiness of the quinoa pairs beautifully with the tender, crispy cabbage steaks, making this side both nutritious and flavorful.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory, smoky cabbage steaks. The contrast in flavors makes for a balanced meal or snack, and the caramelized edges of the potatoes provide a delightful texture that enhances the overall dish.

3. Grilled Mushrooms

Grilled mushrooms, brushed with olive oil and garlic, add a rich, umami flavor that complements the cabbage steaks beautifully. Their earthy taste and tender texture provide a nice contrast to the cabbage, elevating the meal to something truly satisfying.

4. Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado slices are a great way to add some smoothness to the dinner meal. They’re simple but add a luxurious touch when paired with the crispy cabbage, offering a fresh and cool complement to the warm, savory flavors of the cabbage steaks.

5. Tomato & Cucumber Salad

A simple salad bowl of tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic glaze adds a refreshing and light side to balance the richness of the cabbage steaks. The acidity from the tomatoes and the crispness of the cucumber create a bright contrast to the smokiness of the cabbage, making it a perfect pairing on a regular basis.

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