Polish Cabbage, Onions, And Noodles

You might not think of this as being something particularly special, just noodles, onions, and cabbage sautéed in butter, but sometimes the most humble of ingredients can make the most amazing recipes. Our recipe for cabbage and noodles is known by many as haluski, a dish that’s often recognized as Eastern European in origin. Some of you might already be familiar with this dish as a cultural or regional recipe that is often served either as a humble dinner or during special times of the year. Haluski is one of those classic “Grandma Recipes” and one that is not soon to be forgotten because it’s just that good!

Haluski is a perfect example of humble ingredients that come together to make something really special. While this might more traditionally be made with homemade noodles, a bag of egg noodles is a great shortcut and gets the dish on the table even faster. We’ve got some cabbage and onion that needs to be used up before it goes bad, so we cut up both and toss them in a healthy amount of butter. The butter will create a very simple sauce that we season, to taste, with salt and pepper. And that’s it! Besides, anything tossed in warm butter is going to be amazing!

Haluski might look unassuming but one bite will have you hooked! The onions get just slightly caramelized and infuse the cabbage with savory flavor, the cabbage softens beautifully while still holding on to a little bit of crunch, and the noodles give the dish a little more substance. That’s it! Cabbage, onion, butter, noodles. But with a dish like this, seasoning becomes super important and even that is simple, just salt and pepper. You’ll add more of each, to taste. Good food doesn’t need to have fancy ingredients and a humble dish like cabbage, onions, and noodles (aka haluski) is a perfect example of how to use simple ingredients to make amazing food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about simplicity and comfort. You’ll love how quickly it comes together with minimal ingredients, and the way the buttery flavor envelops the cabbage and onions is just irresistible. It’s a budget-friendly, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Large pot for boiling noodles

Ingredients

• ½ head green cabbage, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 8 ounces wide egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: chopped parsley as garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Sauté, stirring frequently, for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and the onions are slightly golden.
3. Add the cooked egg noodles to the pot, and toss everything together to combine well.
4. Season with black pepper and additional kosher salt to taste.
5. Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to cook the cabbage until it’s tender but still slightly crisp to maintain texture.
• Adjust the seasoning gradually to suit your taste preferences.
• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of caraway seeds.
• If you prefer a bit of protein, add some cooked bacon or sausage to the mix.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is a great source of fiber and provides a comforting dose of carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying meal on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage? Yes, you can substitute red cabbage for a slightly different flavor and color.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.

Can I freeze this dish? While you can freeze haluski, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

This traditional Polish dish of cabbage, onions, and noodles is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients. Whether you’re familiar with it from your own family traditions or trying it for the first time, haluski is sure to become a favorite comfort food in your home. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you in the comments below!