Swamp Cabbage Recipe

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Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe makes 8 servings. Amounts are scaled automatically for different yields, but cooking times and steps stay the same. Note: not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 8 ounces thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 6 ounces hickory-smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch half moons
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 (2 pound) green cabbage, coarsely chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (14 ounce) can hearts of palm, drained and roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace.
2. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to brown, about 8 minutes. Then add the sausage and continue cooking, stirring often, until both bacon and sausage are crisp, 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook while stirring frequently until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cabbage, salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Cook until the cabbage begins to soften, about 2-3 minutes, stirring regularly.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, hearts of palm, and vegetable broth. Mix everything until well combined.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 262
• Fat: 17g (21% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (27% DV)
• Cholesterol: 41mg (14% DV)
• Sodium: 1220mg (53% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 15g (5% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (18% DV)
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 16g (32% DV)
• Vitamin C: 65mg (72% DV)
• Calcium: 120mg (9% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (15% DV)
• Potassium: 739mg (16% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

**Nutrient information is based on available data; some nutrients may be missing. Consult your doctor or dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Rich Heritage of Swamp Cabbage

Swamp cabbage, often called heart of palm stew, has its roots deeply embedded in the culinary traditions of the American South, particularly in Louisiana and the bayou regions. Originally, it was a dish created by early settlers and Creole communities who sought to combine locally available ingredientscabbage, pork, and hearts of palminto a hearty, filling meal. Over time, swamp cabbage evolved from a humble home-cooked dish into a celebrated regional specialty.

Regional Characteristics

In southern Louisiana, swamp cabbage is typically prepared with smoked meats such as bacon or andouille sausage, giving it a smoky richness that contrasts with the bright, slightly tangy taste of tomatoes and tender cabbage. Coastal regions sometimes include seafood additions, like shrimp or crawfish, reflecting the bayous bounty. The combination of aromatic vegetablesonion, celery, bell pepperand garlic creates the quintessential "holy trinity" of Cajun cuisine, giving the stew its distinctive depth of flavor.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While swamp cabbage might resemble other cabbage-based stews like European braised cabbage or Irish colcannon, it stands out due to the use of hearts of palm and smoked meats. Unlike a simple cabbage soup, swamp cabbage is thicker, heartier, and more complex in flavor, often combining both vegetable and protein elements in a single pot. The integration of tomatoes adds subtle acidity, balancing the richness of the meat, which is uncommon in traditional European cabbage dishes.

Where Its Typically Served

Swamp cabbage is a staple at Southern family gatherings, potlucks, and Cajun festivals. In restaurants, it is often served as a main entree accompanied by cornbread or rice, highlighting its role as a filling and flavorful comfort dish. Its warming, robust profile also makes it popular during cooler months, particularly around the fall harvest when cabbage is at its peak.

Interesting Facts

One fascinating aspect of swamp cabbage is the use of hearts of palm, which are harvested from the inner core of certain palm trees. This ingredient gives the dish a unique texture and subtle sweetness not found in standard cabbage stews. Additionally, swamp cabbage has cultural significance in Louisiana Creole cuisine, symbolizing resourcefulness, as early cooks transformed simple, accessible ingredients into a satisfying meal. Modern variations sometimes incorporate vegetarian versions, replacing smoked meats with smoked tofu or mushrooms to maintain depth of flavor while keeping the dish plant-based.

FAQ about Swamp Cabbage Recipe